Yes, it’s personal. I got at text from Jon Carter, an intern that we had in 2017 from Salt Lake City’s Patagonia Store. Patagonia supported our Fairhaven Park project. and employees have the opportunity to work with this select list of non-profits.
The message read:
I’ve been working on bringing some energy balls (like a bar) to market over the winter called Odd Balls as a way to raise awareness about cancer in young adults. They incorporate Lion’s mane and Cordyceps mushrooms which were both super helpful during my chemo treatment, which by the way I went through last year after being diagnosed w/ testicular cancer (hence the name: Odd Balls). I’m all good now though, so my humor is back, but not my right ball… Right now, I really need to get the word out about my balls (energy balls…) and would love your help. I know it’s a big ask after so long but it would mean a lot. The more we can talk about my balls ;), the more awareness we can raise! ~ Jon Carter
I asked him to send a Press Release and we’d help get the word out. Here ya go! 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Salt Lake City, Utah – May 10, 2023
Introducing Odd Balls – A Funguy Blend: a new standard in organic, health-focused snacking. The company’s mission statement embodies the spirit of adventure, resilience, and activism, aiming to provide sustenance for outdoor enthusiasts, long-term health support, and raising awareness about testicular cancer.
Odd Balls is a proud, skier/cancer thriver owned and operated company that offers organic energy balls made from nuts, dried fruit, and a unique blend of Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps mushroom extracts – the “Funguy Blend.” This potent mix is designed to support longer outdoor adventures, increase focus and clarity, and support your immune health.
The company’s founder, Jon Carter, was diagnosed with Testicular Cancer at the age of 31. During chemotherapy treatment, he discovered the extraordinary benefits of functional mushrooms, which bolstered his stamina and kept him clear-headed and are a key ingredient in Odd Balls’ products. Now, Carter is using his company to raise awareness about testicular cancer (the number 1 cancer in males aged 18-35) and the power of functional mushrooms.
Targeting health-conscious individuals and outdoor enthusiasts, Odd Balls is the perfect snack for anyone who enjoys skiing, biking, climbing, surfing, kayaking, canoeing, and more. The company’s values align with quality, responsibility, and unconventional approaches to health and wellness.
“As a company, we are committed to creating high-quality, organic food products that not only fuel our customers’ adventures but also contribute to their long-term health,” Carter said. “We believe in the power of functional mushrooms and the benefits they can bring to everyone’s lives, not just while recreating outside.”
Odd Balls is also dedicated to giving back to the community. Through their One Ball Initiative, every purchase will support nonprofits focused on young adults impacted by cancer.
In anticipation of the company’s product launch in June 2023, Odd Balls is inviting potential customers to sign up for its email list and referral program. This will allow customers to stay informed about the latest product developments and have an opportunity to try Odd Balls firsthand and even earn free Odd Balls as more of their friends and family sign-up.
Join the Odd Balls community today and experience the unique blend of taste, health, and adventure. Please visit grow.oddballsfunguy.com to sign-up and begin sharing.
About Odd Balls:
Odd Balls is a Salt Lake City-based organic food company specializing in energy balls made of organic nuts, dried fruit, and special mushroom extracts. Founded by skier and cancer thriver Jon Carter, Odd Balls is committed to providing high-quality, health-supportive food, raising awareness about testicular cancer, and giving back to nonprofits supporting young adults affected by cancer.
Press Contact:
Jon Carter, Founder & Cancer Thriver
218.849.3245
www.oddballsfunguy.com
Jon Carter | Operating Manager & Founder | OddBalls Funguy, LLC
For Fun:
I dug into our archives. Here’s one of the main projects that Jon worked on while he was interning with Recreation Northwest.
Watch on our You Tube Channel.
He also modeled for us during a photo shoot for the Bellingham Traverse! Yes, that’s Tammy Bennett from the YMCA’s Department of Fun out front!
Todd Elsworth is one of the many “Mossy-haired lunatics roaming the dripping peninsulas”, described in “I’m Here for the Weather” by Tom Robbins. As executive director, he works to fulfill our mission to teach the health benefits of nature, promote outdoor recreation, and steward the places where we play.
