Canadians Scholarship to Change Lives

(Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium – Vancouver, B.C.) – The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club held its 7th Annual Scotiabank Hot Stove Luncheon on Friday, January 20th, 2017 at the Hotel Vancouver and amidst the festivities came a gesture that still has Vancouver’s philanthropic community buzzing.

As the Canadians held court with Toronto Blue Jays special guests Paul Beeston (President Emeritus), Joe Biagini (Player) and Charlie Wilson (Director, Minor League Operations), Canadians partner Jeff Mooney took to the stage and shortly after giving a powerful speech about the bright future of children from within our Foundation, stepped forward and along with his wife Suzanne Bolton generously announced the creation of a new scholarship fund in the amount of $75,000.00.

The amount goes directly to The Boys & Girls Clubs of South Coast B.C. to be allocated for five (5), $15,000 educational scholarships awarded to children who showcase a desire to excel in the classroom, on the field and/or in the community.

The scholarship program is offered to children who are a member of The Boys & Girls Clubs of South Coast B.C., participate in the Vancouver Canadians Youth Baseball League and apply successfully for the scholarship, selected by a panel of Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club staff, The Boys & Girls Clubs of South Coast B.C. staff and an independent panel.

The vision is that these children who are just starting out in life see the opportunity that has been presented by this new program and work harder than ever before to reach for the stars and become exactly what the dream of becoming.

The Vancouver Canadians Youth Baseball League will welcome it’s 1,500th children onto the hallowed grounds at Scotiabank Field this coming summer.

To learn more about the Vancouver Canadians Baseball Foundation, click here.

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

PawSox Again Cross the $100,000 Mark in Community Contributions in 2016

The Pawtucket Red Sox again reached a six-figure charitable milestone in 2016, exceeding $100,000 in cash commitments and contributions to the community. The club and its foundation, the Pawtucket Red Sox/James J. Skeffington Charitable Foundation, have typically combined to reach such a level of philanthropy over the past dozen years.

“We inherited a great tradition of giving, led by the late Ben Mondor and our current Vice-Chairman, Mike Tamburro,” said PawSox Chairman Larry Lucchino, who established charitable foundations with each of his previous clubs (the Baltimore Orioles, San Diego Padres, and Boston Red Sox). “We want to build on this tradition. We believe we are only beginning to scratch the surface of the potential of the PawSox Foundation.

“One of the greatest assets of a professional baseball team is its power to raise funds, do good deeds large and small, and make a real difference in the city, the state, and the region.”

The PawSox Foundation’s largest single commitment this year was the creation of the PawSox Scholars Program, in which two 8th graders, one from Pawtucket and one from Central Falls, were selected to each receive a $10,000 college scholarship upon matriculation, provided they maintain their good standards of scholarship and citizenship.

On November 4, the students, 13-year-old Charlisa Kollie, an 8th-grader at Pawtucket’s Samuel Slater Junior High School, and 14-year-old Ethan Hoke, an 8th-grader at Central Falls’ Dr. Earl Calcutt Middle School, were joined at a McCoy Stadium Press Announcement by their respective Mayors, the Honorable Donald R. Grebien of Pawtucket, and the Honorable James Diossa of Central Falls.

“The PawSox Scholars program has the capacity to impact lives dramatically,” said PawSox President Dr. Charles A. Steinberg, who was instrumental in establishing similar models in San Diego (Padres Scholars) and Boston (Red Sox Scholars). “Funding dreams is powerful, and we are eager to increase the degree to which the PawSox Foundation does so.”

In addition to efforts in education, the PawSox Foundation also focuses on care for veterans and for children battling cancer.

In the first week of new management in November of 2015, the PawSox hosted a steak dinner for veterans in the PawSox Clubhouse. They did so again in 2016, and in between, they honored a veteran on the field between innings nightly in the new “In Debt to a Vet” program. On Veterans Day, 2016, the PawSox Foundation made a donation of $3,000 to Operation Stand Down Rhode Island in an event attended by Governor Gina Raimondo.

The PawSox Foundation raised more than $10,000 for the Tomorrow Fund, the honored Rhode Island institution that helps families whose children are battling cancer at Hasbro Children’s Hospital. Beyond the financial help, the PawSox raised awareness for the organization and the cause by “Going Gold” on September 1, the beginning of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The club honored Rhode Island’s Melissa Murray, whose late son, Dorian, became an international social media sensation (#DSTRONG) when the little boy’s dream of becoming famous in China came true. Throughout the year and at the holidays, PawSox players, executives, and mascots visited the children, bringing cheer, smiles, and gifts.

Throughout the year, the club engaged in community activities, both at McCoy Stadium and throughout Rhode Island. Corporate partners such as the Rhode Island Honda Dealers, Citizens Bank, and Jordan’s Furniture were instrumental in the efforts.

In January, the PawSox welcomed Pacific Coast League President Branch Rickey III, who gave first-hand anecdotes to local youth about his legendary namesake grandfather and the revolutionary signing of Jackie Robinson.

In February, PawSox staff “saw their shadows” on Groundhog Day, as Pawtucket students learned first-hand about the work in a baseball front office. Later that month, Paws and Sox visited seniors and brought them flowers on Valentine’s Day.

In March, new club leaders toured the Pawtucket Boys and Girls Club, a longtime beneficiary of PawSox philanthropy.

Throughout the baseball season, the PawSox were host to thousands of children, some receiving free tickets, some receiving special care from the Make-A-Wish Program, and some participating in the emotion-filled Challengers Program (for those with disabilities). The club and its foundation presented baseball clinics, collected donations for the Rhode Island Food Bank, and helped hundreds of organizations raise funds for their charities. The club also aided various non-profits by providing hundreds of auction items, including a 20-person suite to benefit Special Olympics of Rhode Island.

In October, the PawSox opened the ballpark to the neighborhood for an Open House and then a Halloween Trick or Treat event.

In November, after welcoming the veterans, the club welcomed 3rd graders from the Potter-Burns School in Pawtucket for a Thanksgiving luncheon in the PawSox Clubhouse. Also at Thanksgiving, the PawSox donated funds and in-person support to Pawtucket First Lady Laureen Grebien’s charitable basket drive to help feed needy families.

In December, the PawSox Holiday Caravan featuring Southpaw Brian Johnson visited Hasbro Children’s Hospital and the Tomorrow Fund Clinic. The PawSox then opened their doors to all for a free holiday event, the 2nd Annual PawSox Enchanted Village, which drew more than 1,000 fans.

A week later, more students-this time members of Goff Middle School in Pawtucket–enjoyed a Holiday Luncheon in the PawSox Clubhouse. Steinberg and General Manager Dan Rea explained the importance of education while mascots Paws and Sox provided entertainment.

The PawSox Foundation engaged in many less visible deeds as well, including sponsoring a PawSox-themed house at the Pawtucket Winter Wonderland and making donations to the Pawtucket Soup Kitchen to provide Christmas meals to families.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Youth Baseball Clinic on Jan. 14

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. – The Mets will hold a youth baseball clinic on Saturday, January 14 from noon-2 p.m. at Tradition Field.

Registration begins at 10 a.m. and the cost is $10 per child 13-and-under.

All proceeds will go to the Boys & Girls Club. The clinic will be run by Mets staff along with players and coaches.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Paws for Presents Toy Drive 2016

Paws for Presents Toy Drive is BACK as the Chihuahuas Foundation, El Paso Fire Department and Operation Santa partner together again in 2016

EL PASO – November 30, 2016 -The El Paso Chihuahuas Foundation and the El Paso Fire Department present “Paws for Presents” for the third year, a holiday toy drive assisting Operation Santa, a Fort Bliss-based charity.

The drive will run from Thursday, December 1st through Saturday, December 24th. The Chihuahuas and the Fire Department request all gifts be new and not gift wrapped for children up to the age of 13. Monetary donations are also welcome with checks made payable to Operation Santa.

Anyone that brings a new toy for donation at the Durango Team Shop (located at 1 Ballpark Plaza on Durango St) during their normal operating hours will receive a 5% holiday savings upon check out on your entire purchase. Fans can also donate new or gently used toys at any of the 34 El Paso neighborhood fire stations.

“Santa Chico” will also be available for a meet/greet and picture time in the Durango Team Shop on the first three Saturdays in December (December 3rd, 10th & 17th) from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Donate a toy, do some holiday shopping and take a family picture with Chico!

The Durango Team Shop will be open for all your gift shopping needs from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Monday through Saturday, and 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. on Sundays through December 24th.

“It’s a privilege for the Chihuahuas to team up with our local fire department and Operation Santa to provide gifts for kids this time of year,” said Brad Taylor, El Paso Chihuahuas general manager.

Operation Santa, in its 59th season, distributes toys and bicycles to military families, the Boys and Girls Club of El Paso and clinics in Juarez, Mexico. The non-profit, located on Fort Bliss, has donated millions of toys and tens of thousands of bikes to the military and civilian communities.

For more information on the Paws for Presents Toy Drive call (915) 242-2043.

PAWS FOR PRESENTS TOY DRIVE

WHAT: “Paws for Presents”, a toy drive benefiting Operation Santa. Toys must be new and unwrapped for children up to the age of 13. Monetary donations also accepted.

WHEN: Thursday, December 1st through Saturday, December 24, 2016.

WHERE: El Paso Chihuahuas Team Shop on Durango and El Paso Fire Department’s 34 stations

PawSox Sending Two Children to The World Series

Brian Vanasse, Jr. and Jack Marsella hold their tickets for the 2016 World Series in Chicago as the PawSox, for the 27th year, are sending two youngsters from the Pawtucket Boys and Girls Club, along with their dads, to the Fall Classic. Dan Rea, PawSox Senior VP and General Manager (far left) and Luke McLaughlin (far right) of the Pawtucket Boys and Girls Club visited with the families at McCoy Stadium before sending them off to Chicago.

Two Rhode Island children, together with their dads, will attend the World Series this weekend, thanks to the PawSox and the PawSox/Skeffington Charitable Foundation. The children were selected from the Pawtucket Boys and Girls Club. The all-expense paid trip continues an annual tradition started 27 years ago.

The children, Jack Marsella, 13, of Providence and Brian Vanasse, Jr., 10, of Pawtucket, will be accompanied by Jack’s father, Paul, and Brian’s father, Brian.

The Rhode Island ambassadors will attend Games 3 and 4 at Chicago’s Wrigley Field. The historic series features the Cubs, who have not won a Fall Classic since 1908, against the Cleveland Indians, who have not won since 1948.

“This tradition reflects not only our love of baseball, but our love of the Pawtucket Boys and Girls Club,” said PawSox Vice-Chairman Mike Tamburro, who has been with the ballclub for 43 years. “Jim Hoyt has run an extraordinary Boys and Girls Club for many years, and we are proud to be a partner.”

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

PawSox Win 2016 Community Involvement Award from Providence Business News

The Providence Business News has awarded their 2016 Community Involvement Award to the Pawtucket Red Sox in an announcement made this past Friday, October 14. The PawSox are one of 12 companies being recognized for business excellence. The award ceremony will take place on Thursday, November 17, at the Providence Marriott.

“The Pawtucket Red Sox have been an engaged member of the community throughout their history,” said Mark S. Murphy, Editor of the Providence Business News. “Their community track record has been especially strong since the 1999 establishment of the ballclub’s charity program, through which the team has donated more than $1 million to organizations serving the underprivileged throughout New England.”

The award marks the second major community recognition that the club has received in the past three years. In 2014, the PawSox received the John Henry Moss Community Service Award presented by Minor League Baseball for outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, along with exemplary leadership within its local community.

“To receive this award is an honor,” said PawSox President, Dr. Charles Steinberg. “To serve this community is a privilege.

All of us who love working with the PawSoAnchorx recognize the role that baseball can play in our community. We look forward to doing even more for the people of Pawtucket and the people of Rhode Island.”

With over 120 community appearances made to date in 2016, the PawSox are on pace to triple the number of mascot and player appearances the team made in 2015 to Rhode Island and surrounding Massachusetts communities.

The PawSox have also unveiled successful new community oriented promotions at the ballpark in 2016, such as “My Hero Mondays,” where fans nominated community heroes to be recognized on the field prior to every Monday home game. The club’s new “In Debt to a Vet” in-game program allowed our region’s servicemen and women to be honored and thanked for their service to our country at every PawSox home game.

The support for our nation’s heroes continued at the PawSox Annual 5K Walk & Run in September, where over $6,000 was raised for veteran and military support groups.

Also in the month of September, PawSox players and coaches provided hands-on instruction to over 200 children with various physical and mental disabilities at the Annual Challenger Clinic— led by PawSox manager Kevin Boles.

On the 15th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, members of the PawSox community set a club record by donating 71 units of blood for the Rhode Island Blood Center in a revamped drive at McCoy Stadium, generating several times the amount of blood units collected at previous McCoy blood drives.

“The team’s recognition of its unique role in the community, and its determination to use that role to improve that community, is a worthy example for all companies,” Murphy explained. “It makes the PawSox the well-deserved honoree for community involvement in the 2016 PBN Business Excellence Awards Program.”

As playoff baseball continues during the month of October, the PawSox are looking forward to continuing some of their cornerstone community traditions, such as the all-expenses-paid World Series trip to two lucky families from the Boys & Girls Club of Pawtucket.

Last off-season, the PawSox introduced an additional slate of community events and activities at the ballpark, including a Veterans Day Dinner, luncheons around the holidays for local school children, a holiday caravan with PawSox players and Front Office members, a Black History Month celebration with local youth groups in the PawSox clubhouse, and Valentine’s Day rose deliveries to senior centers in the area. These are all programs that the PawSox are excited to continue this off-season, along with soon announcing a major new educational initiative geared towards local students.

Those who are interested in joining the PawSox on November 17 to accept this special community honor can visit www.pbn.com, where individual tickets to the PBN Business Excellence Awards can be purchased.

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Miracle, Keep On Playing host last clinic of 2016

FORT MYERS, Fla. (September 1, 2016) – The Fort Myers Miracle and Keep on Playing are teaming up for the fourth and final baseball clinic with the Fort Myers Boy’s and Girl’s Club for 2016 on Saturday, September 3 at 10 a.m. at Shady Oaks.

The Miracle, Keep On Playing and the Boy’s and Girl’s Club have held three previous baseball clinics with excellent turnout. The Miracle and Keep On Playing have donated baseball equipment to the Boy’s and Girl’s Club and players have delivered one-on-one personal instruction to the local youth throughout the course of the summer. At each clinic, current members of the Miracle roster have worked with kids to help develop a passion for the game of baseball. 2016 Florida State League All-Star and team home run leader Trey Vavra has been at every session.

Fort Myers Mayor Randy Henderson has proclaimed September 3 as MiLB Keep On Playing Day.

“It’s extraordinary to watch the kids pick up a baseball and glove and they don’t stop smiling and laughing,” said Marnie Schneider, Founder of Keep On Playing. “The special gift of choosing what to plays is what Keep On Playing and our amazing teammates give the children. By bringing the wonderful game of baseball to the kids, we give them more options and teach them about our national pastime!”

Keep On Playing and the Miracle support the Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities, or RBI program, at the Boy’s and Girl’s Clubs located in Fort Myers. In addition to baseball skills, clubs ensure participants receive educational components to help foster academic achievement while attending the clinics.

The Keep On Playing mission is to enrich the lives of youth through play. When kids keep on playing, their experiences are enhanced exponentially. Keep On Playing strives to build confidence, increase motivation and enhance self-esteem by jump-starting participation in sports. The Keep On Playing core values are: Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, Perseverance, Excellence, Sportsmanship and Academic Achievement.

“I think the most important thing for people to know about Keep On Playing is its ability to change lives,” said Donja Massop, Director of Operations for the Boy’s and Girl’s Clubs of Lee County. “It’s not just about baseball. It’s more about opportunities and providing kids with new experiences.”

“We are thrilled to be able to work with Keep On Playing to bring a positive message about teamwork and being involved in sports to the kids at the Boy’s and Girl’s Club in Lee County,” said Miracle Chief Operating Officer Steve Gliner. “Being a part of these baseball clinics has been a great experience for our players and staff.”

The Miracle, Keep On Playing and the Boy’s and Girl’s Club have already scheduled clinics for the summer of 2017. For more information on the final Keep On Playing clinic in Fort Myers, contact the Miracle offices at (239) 768-4210.

IronPigs Charities Announce Record-Setting Donations

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Grants Were Awarded during Thursday’s Phillies Winter Banquet

Lehigh-Valley-IronPigsIronPigs Charities, presented by The Air Production Foundation, a non-profit organization striving to provide educational and recreational opportunities for children in the Greater Lehigh Valley area, awarded a record-breaking 101,897.45 in cash grants to 22 non-profit organizations during Thursday’s Phillies Winter Banquet at the Sands Events Center. Since debuting in 2008, IronPigs Charities has contributed a total in excess of $750,000 in cash grants to dozens of local non-profit entities. Between the IronPigs Charities organization and the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, the total all-time cash distribution is nearing $1.1-million.

“The Phillies Winter Banquet, coupled with the opportunity to make meaningful donations to so many deserving local organizations, is truly the highlight of our year,” remarked IronPigs Charities President Kurt Landes. “It’s genuinely humbling to be in such a position to be able to impact our community in such a significant manner. And, the best is yet to come.”

The 2015 beneficiaries are listed below:

  • Allentown School District Foundation
  • Boy Scouts of America, Minsi Trails Council
  • Boys and Girls Club of Allentown
  • Boys and Girls Club of Bethlehem
  • Boys and Girls Club of Easton
  • Center for Vision Loss
  • Community Bike Works
  • East Side Memorial Little League
  • East Side Youth Center
  • Easton Area Police Athletic League
  • Friends of Allentown Parks
  • Girl Scouts of Eastern PA
  • Lehigh Valley Center for Independent Living
  • Lower Macungie Athletics
  • Mikayla’s Voice
  • Miracle League of Lehigh Valley
  • Northeast Ministry
  • Sacred Heart Hospital
  • Wildlands Conservancy
  • YMCA of Bethlehem
  • YMCA of Easton, Phillipsburg & Vicinity
  • Youth Education in the Arts

Philadelphia Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro, Jr., manager Ryne Sandberg along with OF Ben Revere, INF/OF Darin Ruf and RHP David Buchanan headlined the 2015 Phillies Winter Banquet presented by The Air Products Foundation, Lehigh Valley Health Network, Service Electric Cable TV & Communications and Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network. Other Phillies dignitaries included broadcaster Tom McCarthy, Assistant General Manager Scott Proefrock and Assistant Director of Player Develoment Steve Noworyta.

The Phillies Winter Banquet beneficiary, IronPigs Charities, is a recognized 501(c) (3) non-profit organization on the state and federal level. The annual Phillies Winter Banquet is IronPigs Charities’ flagship event and all of the money raised at the event directly benefits IronPigs Charities.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Click here to view the original story.

San Jose Giants Release 2014 Community Report

Report showcases organization’s impact in the South Bay

San-Jose-GiantsThe San Jose Giants released today their 2014 Community Report. The report is a complete detail of the organization’s community involvement and contributions. From expanding the team’s extensive fundraising efforts to a record number of mascot appearances and the organization’s rise from twenty-fifth in Minor League Baseball’s social media rankings to second overall, the San Jose Giants presence was felt well beyond the Municipal Stadium gates this year.

“I want to personally thank all of our fans and partners for your loyalty and passion for the San Jose Giants and our place in the community,” said Daniel Orum, San Jose Giants President and CEO. “Through the organization’s extensive work with youth sports groups, schools and regional non-profit organizations, the team has introduced baseball to millions of homes in Northern California and this year alone raised over $480,000 for charitable causes.”

The 2014 Community Report showcases the variety of charitable efforts the San Jose Giants are involved with both inside and beyond the Municipal Stadium gates. Highlights of the report include over 150 appearances made by San Jose Giants personnel, unique, community-centered evening’s at Municipal Stadium, events in partnership with the Giants Community Fund to help under served youth and in-kind donations to more than 750 local and national organizations.

For more information on the San Jose Giants and how to get your organization involved next season, call (408) 297-1435 or visit sjgiants.com.

Read 2014 San Jose Giants Community Report

This article originally appeared on the official website of the San Jose Giants. Click here to view the original story.

Blue Rocks honored with Minker Award

Community service award is named after Wilmington team’s founder

Wilmington-Blue-Rocks-2014The Wilmington Blue Rocks were honored by the Carolina League on Wednesday with the Matt Minker Community Service Award, which goes to the club that best demonstrates an outstanding, on-going commitment to charitable service, support, and leadership within its community. The award is named after the Blue Rocks’ founder, who owned the club until his death in 2007. Minker, whose construction company also built Frawley Stadium, is still the team’s honorary president. It is the first year the title has been awarded to an entire organization, after going to individual players since its inception in 2009.

“Matt Minker was instrumental in laying the foundation for the Blue Rocks and for the franchise’s success in the years to follow,” said Blue Rocks general manager Chris Kemple. “It is fitting and appropriate that this honor bears his name and we are absolutely privileged to be the first organizational recipient.”

The Blue Rocks won the award thanks in large part to their numerous school programs, charitable endeavors and hospital visits.

As an organization the Blue Rocks work with area schools to promote academic achievement (Rocky’s Reading Challenge), citizenship (Outstanding Student Program), and active lifestyles (Titus Sports Champions Physical Health Program). The team helped raise tens of thousands of dollars for good causes through partnerships with Habitat For Humanity, Boys & Girls Clubs of DE, Fight for the Gold, Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition and many other charities in 2014. It also contributed school supplies to the Red Clay School Consolidated School District during the Remax Stuff the Bus Campaign and donated thousands of tickets to other worthy community programs. Several times each season the team also visited the Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital For Children, brightening the spirits of that facility’s patients and their families.

“We could not accomplish much of what we do without the partnership and cooperation of our players and the Kansas City Royals organization,” said Blue Rocks director of community affairs Kevin P. Linton. “Their commitment to community fits perfectly with the vision that Matt Minker set forth for the Blue Rocks franchise and that we continue to follow to this day.”

Community service is so engrained within the organization that three of the five times the award was presented to individual players it went to Blue Rocks. Everett Teaford was the inaugural winner in 2009 and was followed by Tim Melville in 2011 and Whit Merrifield in 2012.

As the Carolina League’s recipient of the Matt Minker Award, the Blue Rocks received the eight-team league’s automatic nomination for the John Henry Moss Community Service Award, given out by Minor League Baseball at its annual national convention, to be held this December in San Diego.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Wilmington Blue Rocks. Click here to view the original story.

RailRiders 2014 Community Report

Over $360,000 Given Back to NEPA, 66% Jump from Award-Winning 2013

Scranton-W-B-RailRiders-logoComing together for the greater good. All baseball teams try to accomplish it on the field. In the case of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) – the off-the-field efforts in that same vein added up to a whole lot of good to date in 2014.

Among the highlights:

– Five jersey auctions raised over $20,000 to benefit: Hunt of a Lifetime, IamMore Foundation, Allied Health Services, Fisher House and the Dave Miley HOF Scholarship Fund.

– The debut of the team’s Fit Track program, presented by Odak.

HOPE-Week– Another successful HOPE Week in concert with the rest of the New York Yankees organization.

– An increase in charitable giving from $217,000 to over $360,000 including cash and in-kind gifts.

– Over 550 hours volunteered in the community by full-time staff, players and coaches.

– Over 200 mascot appearances.

– Support of our military with the Metlife Military Appreciation program, Honor Guard program, veterans parade appearances in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, and a players/field staff visit to the Gino Merli Veterans Center.

Boys-&-Girls-club-of-Americ– The RailRiders and Kost Tire and Auto raised $14,000 for the Boys and Girls Clubs of NEPA with the Hurl the Pearl promotion (up $2,000 from 2013).

-The addition of several other new initiatives including: Breast Cancer Awareness Night which raised $2,000 for the Susan G. Komen Foundation and the Girl Scouts of NEPA; an Easter Egg Hunt for children with special needs; and special school day themes for including an anti-bullying day and an anti-drug and alcohol day.

Susan-G.-KomenThe RailRiders franchise prides itself on engaging with the community. The signature addition in that regard for 2014 – the Fit Track program. Fit Track’s inaugural year sported over 30 schools in NEPA and over 12,000 children. It encourages children to develop healthy habits during their youth that will transition into adulthood. The Fit Track focuses on three main healthy behaviors: being active for 60 minutes each day; making healthy food choices; and getting at least eight hours of sleep a night. Each enrolled child received a free RailRiders jump rope to aid in their physical activity. Each child that completed the program received a free ticket to one of four RailRiders home games with Fit Trackers honored on the field during the pre-game festivities.

Girl_ScoutsThe Community Organization of the Game program, presented by DePietro’s Pharmacy, came back for its second season. Each of the team’s 72 home games spotlighted a local non-profit/civic organization. That COG had the opportunity to spread its message to every guest through a pre-game on-field interview, a ceremonial first pitch, an on-air radio interview and a concourse table display.

A standard from previous years, the Adopt-A-Field program, renovated four local fields (one high school field; one softball field; two youth fields). Front office staff and grounds crew members spent the entire day at each park cutting the infield, rebuilding pitching mounds, fertilizing/mowing grass, cleaning dugouts and more. The fields were chosen through a contest on the team’s website with fan votes deciding the lucky winners.

As the top affiliate of the New York Yankees, the RailRiders proudly played their part in the organization’s annual HOPE (Helping Others Persevere and Excel) Week effort. The week-long community outreach program’s purpose is to touch as many lives as possible in your area. Members of the RailRiders’ coaching staff, players and front office folks made their way throughout NEPA.

Childrens-Miracle-Network-Hospital-2014HOPE Week 2014 in SWB included partnerships with the Children’s Miracle Network and Make-A-Wish Foundation to welcome children in for an unforgettable day; shaved heads and over $13,000 raised for childhood cancer research; a visit to the Gino Merli Veterans Center; and laser tag with the NEPA Boys and Girls Club.

Make-A-WishThe RailRiders’ Military Appreciation program was brought back to show the team’s support of our nation’s active and retired military. The serviceperson and his/her family were honored. Activities included complimentary game tickets, a pre-game on-field interview and a ceremonial first pitch.

SWB’s patriotic pride continued by Setting A Seat Aside. To honor men and women affiliated with our nation’s military whom could not be at PNC Field, one significant seat (section 13, row 15, seat one) remains forever empty and unsold.

“2014 was a great year,” said community relations manager Rachel Mark. “Seeing the impact our community outreach makes in NEPA is priceless. We are excited to continue these efforts and watch them grow in 2015.”

Invested in the community, the RailRiders franchise has more than 30 full-time employees. Combined with concessionaire Legends, PNC Field boasts over 500 seasonal employees. The franchise prides itself on customer service and affordability as the bar-setting destination for affordable, family entertainment destination in NEPA.

The RailRiders open their 2015 season at home on April 9 against the Syracuse Chiefs (Washington Nationals). For more information please call (570) 969-BALL (2255) or visit swbrailriders.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Click here to view the original story.

Star Wars Jersey Night to Resume August 23

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Nashville-SoundsStar Wars Night and the Chewbacca jersey auction benefitting the Boys and Girls Clubs of Middle TN and Nashville RBI will resume on Saturday, August 23.

All bids that were placed on August 9th are still considered active bids. If you think you hold the highest active bid for a jersey and have not heard from us, please contact Shannon Lapsley at (615) 690-4487 ext. 153 before August 23rd for more information.

Boys-&-Girls-Clubs-of-Mid-TNThe silent auction for jerseys will resume at Fan Relations when gates open on Saturday, August 23, at 5:35 p.m. and continue until the end of the 6th inning, when all bids will be final.

Please note numbers and jersey sizes are subject to change.

RBI-logo
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Nashville Sounds. Click here to view the original story.

Free Baseball Skillz & Drillz Clinic this Saturday

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Greeneville-Astros-2014The Greeneville Astros and the Boys & Girls Club of Greeneville & Greene County are teaming up to host the 10th Annual Baseball Skillz & Drillz Clinic on Saturday, July 12, 2014 from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. The clinic will be held at Pioneer Park, home of the Greeneville Astros, located on the Tusculum College campus. The clinic is sponsored by Greeneville Pediatric Clinic and Laughlin Memorial Hospital.

The Greeneville Astros players and coaches will work with youBoys-&-Girls-club-of-Americngsters ages 14 and under on the basic fundamentals of baseball. Throwing, base running, catching and hitting are just a few of the fundamentals that will be worked on during the free clinic.

Participants in this year’s event will receive a free Baseball Skillz & Drillz Clinic T-shirt while supplies last as well as a ticket to the Astros home game Saturday night.

After the clinic, Greeneville Astros players and coaches will sign autographs and refreshments will be served to the baseball clinic participants.

For more information on the free baseball clinic, call Scott Bullington or Cathy Osborne at the Boys & Girls Club at (423) 787-9322 or contact Kelsey Thompson, David Lane or Hunter Reed with the Greeneville Astros at (423) 638-0411.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Greeneville Astros. Click here to view the original story.

RailRiders Announce HOPE Week Activities

Week-Long Festivities Commence Sunday, July 6

Scranton-W-B-RailRiders-logoWhat began as an ode to the parent club and the community has turned into an annual tradition in NEPA. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (Triple-A/New York Yankees) are proud to announce that beginning on Sunday, July 6 the RailRiders will join the New York Yankees in support of HOPE (Helping Others Persevere and Excel) Week 2014, a unique week-long communal program that brings to light extraordinary stories intended to inspire individuals into action in their own communities.

HOPE-WeekInitiated in 2009 and now in its fifth campaign in NEPA, HOPE Week is rooted in the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope and encouragement to more than just the recipient of the gesture. Each day from Sunday, July 6 through Friday, July 11 members of the RailRiders front office staff or club will reach out personally to connect with an organization, cause or individual. 2014 marks the third straight year that each of the Yankees’ six U.S.-based affiliates will participate in the program, making the initiative one that the entire organization proudly stands behind.

Voluntary-Action-Center-logoHOPE Week begins with the RailRiders’ annual food drive on Sunday, July 6. Patrons are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to the 7:05 p.m. contest against the Charlotte Knights (Chicago White Sox) in exchange for one lawn seat in the NEPA Honda Homer Zone. SWB has partnered with the Voluntary Action Center which will distribute the collected items to agencies and food pantries around the region. The RailRiders will respond by honoring Voluntary Action Center’s ‘Volunteers of the Year’ with a pre-game ceremony on the field.

PA-Dept-of-Military-&-Veterans-AffairsScranton/Wilkes-Barre coaches, players and front office staff will trek to the Gino Merli Veterans Center in Scranton on Monday, July 7 to participate in a full day of inspiring visits. The RailRiders will visit residents in their rooms and see who has the best stuff in some games of Wii baseball. The visit includes a social filled with baseball-themed snacks.

Vs-Cancer-logoFortune favors the bald? We will find out on Tuesday, July 8 when the RailRiders join the Vs. Cancer Foundation with a night at PNC Field committed to raising money for childhood cancer research. Half of the funds raised will be donated to the National Childhood Cancer Research Foundation and the other half will be donated locally. RailRiders players and front office staff will shave their heads during and after the game to help raise awareness. A number of names are scheduled to participate including RHP Danny Burawa, SHP Pat Venditte, C Francisco Arcia and team president/GM Rob Crain. The RailRiders have set a team goal of $10,000 for the event.

Childrens-Miracle-Network-Hospital-2014On Wednesday, July 9, Children’s Miracle Network kids and their families will journey into the RailRiders’ home clubhouse for a personal meet-and-greet with players before the game.

The RailRiders head to the NEPA Boys and Girls Club on Thursday, July 10. Boys-&-Girls-club-of-AmericSWB has partnered with Combined Forces Mobile Laser Tag for the fun and excitement of laser tag. The event includes inflatable barricades, walls and laser guns. RailRiders’ players and staff will participate in the team sport with club members from 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

The big league baseball dream propels the RailRiders each day. On Friday, July Make-A-Wish11, the RailRiders will seek to help dreams of a different variety. HOPE Week concludes with Princess and Pirate Night at PNC Field as the RailRiders partner with the Make-A-Wish foundation to honor two deserving kids. Limos, along with staff dressed in their best princess and pirate attire, will escort the two honorees to PNC Field for special on-field recognition and ceremonial first pitches. Each child will receive a complimentary princess and pirate costume and promotional package.

HOPE Week is just a part of the RailRiders’ community outreach this season, and the RailRiders look forward to continuing their involvement both during and after HOPE Week. Any inquiries regarding the week-long festivities should be directed to RailRiders community relations manager Rachel Mark by calling 570-969-2255 (ext. 3140) or by e-mailing rmark@swbrailriders.com.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees. Click here to view the original story.

Tampa Yankees Recognize HOPE Week

TampaYankees_2014-06-18

 

Tampa-YankeesThe Tampa Yankees will be participating in HOPE Week (Helping Others Preserve & Excel) during the week of June 19-24, 2014. HOPE Week is a New York Yankees initiative designed to reach out to remarkable people who are worthy of recognition for their inspiring actions and support of their communities.

The Tampa Yankees players and staff will be visiting patients and their families at local area hospitals including:

  • Tampa General Hospital
  • St. Joseph’s Hospital
  • All Children’s Hospital

HOPE-WeekThe Tampa based minor league Yankees players will also be visiting the Children’s Home: a child-and family-centered organization that is positioned to care for struggling families and children seeking the comfort of a loving family.

Where-Love-GrowsWhere Love Grows will be hosting a Victoria’s Good Table dinner in the Yankees pavilion at Steinbrenner Field. Where Love Grows is a Tampa based non-profit organization. They wanted to partner with the Tampa Yankees to benefit the children of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay in celebration of HOPE Week. Tampa Yankees players and staff will be in attendance to help serve food and mingle with the children.

The Tampa Yankees are the Single-A Advanced affiliate of the New York Yankees. For more information on the Tampa Yankees, and the Tampa HOPE Week Itinerary, visit www.tybaseball.com or call (813) 673-3055.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Tampa Yankees. Click here to view the original story.