GO Blue For CASA Event Set For May 5

Bridgewater, New Jersey – The Somerset Patriots, the New York Yankees Double-A affiliate, have teamed up with CASA for a child advocate event at TD Bank Ballpark on Thursday, May 5 for the 6:35 p.m. game against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (Toronto Blue Jays).

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy declared April 2022 as CASA Child Advocate Month in celebration of the work CASA volunteers do on behalf of the state’s most vulnerable children.

The Patriots will host GO Blue for CASA Night and encourage fans to wear blue to the game as part of the event designed to build awareness around child abuse.

There will be 139 lawn signs located in front of TD Bank Ballpark to represent all the children served in foster care in 2021.

“We’re so excited to team up with the Somerset Patriots to celebrate our CASA Child Advocate volunteers as well as build awareness around child abuse and the impact within our communities,” said Ellen Davis Director of Development CASA SHaW.

CASA is selling tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the game as part of their fundraising efforts. To purchase tickets or partner with the organization, please visit https://bit.ly/GoBlue4CASASHAW.

The game’s 50/50 raffle will also benefit the work of CASA as advocates of children in need.

About CASA

CASA SHaW provides well-trained, trauma-informed volunteers to serve as advocates in court for children living in foster care. Our goal is to ensure that every child served has a safe, permanent home and the resources and services needed to thrive and not just survive adverse childhood experiences. We are committed to educating ourselves and the community about the causes and impacts of child abuse and neglect, the need for racial equity in a disproportionate system, and how to best advocate for and meet the needs of children in foster care in Somerset, Hunterdon, and Warren Counties.

About the Somerset Patriots
The Somerset Patriots are the New York Yankees Double-A Affiliate and develop today’s top minor league talent into the pinstriped superstars of tomorrow for MLB’s winningest team. The Patriots compete in the Double-A Northeast League and play their home games at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater, NJ, where fans of all ages and levels of baseball fandom get to enjoy the unique experience that is minor league baseball.

To learn more, visit: www.somersetpatriots.com

Rawhide Charitable Fund Supports Work with Local Families

 

Rawhide gives back with $30,000 in grants to Visalia Community

Visalia, CA – To commemorate the end of a wonderful 2021 season of Rawhide Baseball under new ownership, the Sigal Family Rawhide Charitable Fund is pleased to announce their 2021 Community Grants. In partnership with the Central Valley Community Foundation, three grants of $10,000 each will be awarded to Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias, Family Services of Tulare County, and United Way of Tulare County.

“We fully support the good work of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias, Family Services of Tulare County, and the United Way of Tulare County”, said Sam Sigal, President and Co-owner of the Visalia Rawhide. “The work that these three organizations do could not be more vital to our community.”

The Boys and Girls Clubs will receive $10,000 to provide needed maintenance on their facilities. This grant will help Boys & Girls Clubs provide safe, quality spaces for kids to attend during after school hours, school holidays and summer vacation. “We are very thankful to the Sigal Family for their concern and investment in our community’s children,” said CEO Galen Quenzer. Tulare County currently has 15 clubs located throughout the South Valley and sees an average of 910 kids a day.

Family Services of Tulare County will receive $10,000 to continue providing emergency shelter, counseling, and legal services for survivors of domestic violence and their children, as well as other programs that help strengthen families and prevent future violence. “During the COVID-19 Pandemic the need for our services increased, while survivors of violence faced new barriers to seeking safety,” said Caity Meader, CEO. “The Sigal family’s donation allows Family Services to continue its work to help local children and families heal from violence and thrive in healthy relationships.” Family Services works with more than 5,000 people each year.

United Way has been on the frontlines of the COVID-19 response in Tulare County. They will receive $10,000 to continue connecting community members with resources and services through their non-emergency hotline and comprehensive app. United Way directly serves families that have been impacted by COVID-19 by connecting them with available resources. This grant will provide critical mortgage and utility assistance for 20 families. The need in Tulare County is great. In the past year and a half, over 2700 families have requested support for mortgage and utility bills totaling over $3,000,000.

“Thank you to Rawhide season ticket holders and fans for your support this season,” said Sigal. “In honor of you, the Rawhide invests in critical resources to support our community. “

About Visalia Rawhide

The Visalia Rawhide are the Single-A Affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks and are the only professional sports team in Tulare and Kings counties. The team has been an affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks since 2007 and celebrated the 75th Anniversary of Minor League Baseball in Visalia in 2021. The Rawhide proudly hosts competitive baseball in Valley Strong Ballpark while providing affordable entertainment for all ages. For information on the upcoming 2022 Visalia Rawhide season, contact the Visalia Rawhide Ticket Office at 559.732.4433, visit online at rawhidebaseball.com, or follow on Facebook (TheRawhide), Instagram (@VisaliaRawhide), and Twitter (@VisaliaRawhide).

About Central Valley Community Foundation

The Central Valley Community Foundation has been a trusted partner in philanthropy in the Central Valley for more than 50 years. Its mission is to cultivate smart philanthropy, lead, and invest in solutions that build stronger communities. As the only nationally-accredited community foundation serving the six-county Central San Joaquin Valley, CVCF attracts investment and deploys resources to solve persistent economic, environmental, and social challenges in the Central Valley. For more details visit www.CentralValleyCF.org or connect at @CentralValleyCF.

Isotopes Team Up With Enlace Comunitario For “Homers That Help”

 

For each home run hit by Triple-A teams (home and road), during the Triple-A Final Stretch of the last 10 games of the season, Major League Baseball will donate $50 per home run to a local charity selected by each team. The club with the most home runs over the 10-game span will generate an additional $5,000 donation for their charity.

The Albuquerque Isotopes have chosen Enlace Comunitario to be the beneficiary of the “Homers That Help” initiative. The mission of Enlace Comunitario is to transform the lives of individuals and their families experiencing domestic violence by working to decrease gender inequity and intimate partner violence in the Latinx immigrant community in Central New Mexico.

The Isotopes’ “Final Stretch” begins tonight as they host Reno at 6:35 p.m. to launch their final homestand of the season. The team finishes the regular season with five games at Sacramento from September 29-October 3.

PaddleHeads Commit $25,000 Match to YWCA Swing Big for Kids Campaign

 

The Missoula PaddleHeads, in conjunction with YWCA Missoula, have announced the fundraising campaign “Swing Big for Kids” to support the YWCA Youth Activities Program and to “let kids be kids” despite experiencing homelessness and/or domestic violence. The fundraising campaign, will receive a PaddleHeads’ $1-for-$1 match, up to $25,000. The “Swing Big for Kids” campaign will run from May 6th to May 21st.

“At The Meadowlark, YWCA Missoula’s new family housing and domestic violence shelter, we will have anywhere from 40-60 children living in the building at any given time.” said YWCA Communications Coordinator, Becky Margolis. “We know that growing up in a home filled with the sights and sounds of domestic violence, or experiencing the stress of homelessness or food insecurity, can have a profound impact on children. But we also know that because of the brain’s ability to adapt and change, we can begin to help these children heal while they are still young and developing. We can’t erase painful memories but we can help them to build new positive memories and experiences. One critical way that we do this is by offering enriching, trauma-informed summer and after school programs— so that kids can just be kids.”

Supporters will have two ways/timeframes to donate to the YWCA Missoula Youth Activities Program.

The first, through May 6th and May 7th donate to YWCA Missoula’s “Missoula Gives” campaign here: (https://www.missoulagives.org/organizations/ywca-missoula)

Second, May 6th through May 21st donate directly to YWCA Missoula here: (https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E341298&id=41)

During the Swing Big for Kids campaign, every dollar donated will receive a $1-for-$1 match from the PaddleHeads up to $25,000!

YWCA Missoula’s comprehensive Youth Services Program serves infants through teenagers. Contributions will cover general operations for the program.

Your contribution will help provide:

  • Weekly activities, including swim lessons and outdoor recreation, for young kids ages 0-5 to participate in with their parents.
  • Biking lessons and rafting/ water sports for older kids and teens.
  • Enriching afternoon programs during the week.
  • Drop-in child care; so that parents can attend meetings with case managers, support groups and counseling.
  • GUTS! leadership programs for girls and gender-diverse youth in the community.

Together, we can give kids in crisis the chance to learn new skills, build resilience, and regain hope for the future.

“Our franchise is more than just a baseball team, we are an active community partner committed to using industry to help others rise, especially in times of difficulty,” said PaddleHeads’ Director of Marketing & Public Relations, Taylor Rush. “We feel privileged to support the YWCA Missoula. It is every child’s basic right to feel safe, valued and protected, and to enjoy being a kid! We hope the great city of Missoula will rally behind this cause, and support this incredibly important program.

Check on your neighbors and friends. If you’re concerned that someone might be unsafe and you want to learn how to help support them, call the YWCA crisis line: 406-542-1944.

The “Swing Big for Kids” fundraiser for the YWCA Missoula Youth Activities Program will only run from May 6th to May 21st. Donate directly, double your impact, and support those in need.

Opening Day of the PaddleHeads’ 48-game home slate is tabbed for May 22, with the first month of games set at 50% capacity, and a limited number of season tickets available, fans are encouraged to act fast and purchase tickets online in advance, to secure their desired seating locations. Tickets are available now online at http://bit.ly/GETTIX21 or by visiting the PaddleHeads Post (140 N Higgins – 406.543.3300).

Non-Profit Hero of the Week: Harmony House

 

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — For nearly 50 years, Harmony House has been there for Southwest Missouri–providing shelter, advocacy and education to survivors of domestic violence and promoting the principle that all individuals have a right to a life free from abuse.

Since its founding in 1976, Harmony House has helped over 17,000 individuals who were victims of domestic violence. Even before the uncharted times our country has endured these past six months, Harmony House stands as a hero in our community.

But it’s what they’ve done and found ways to continue to do during the COVID-19 pandemic that makes them this week’s Non-Profit Heroes award winner, presented by American National Insurance.

“It was important to our entire team that we keep our doors open for victims in our community, as many are still suffering at the hands of their abuser even through the pandemic,” Harmony House Director of Development Jared Alexander said. “We maintained a full staff of advocates in shelter, continued operation of our 24-hour emergency hotline, and transitioned to several virtual presentations and programs to continue services and communication for residents, volunteers, and the general public.”

And the community recognized those efforts. Harmony House received over 10 percent of all nominations for our Non-Profit Heroes. Their impact and effort was certainly noticed.

“Harmony House has continued to work through the COVID pandemic, sheltering clients and providing outreach services,” one nominator said. “Harmony House is the only domestic violence shelter in Greene County and without their services many abused people would have been trapped in dangerous situations.”

The Harmony House team understood the added dangers for domestic violence victims during the stay-at-home-order and responded, implementing a code word that could be used to indicate that an individual was in immediate danger and continuing to help alleviate individuals from the epidemic of domestic violence–as one nomination put it.

“We are so proud of the entire team at Harmony House–staff, volunteers, and our board–who continue to work tirelessly for domestic violence victims in our community despite the challenges we are all facing as a community,” Alexander said. “Harmony House, like so many in our community, was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic as an organization. Immediately, our leadership team and board of directors made the decision to remain open and to implement screening procedures to protect the staff, volunteers and clients currently residing in shelter and participating in our Outreach program.”

Harmony House is not only the only domestic violence shelter in Greene County, but it’s the largest of its kind in the state of Missouri. In 2017, Harmony House expanded to a larger facility that allowed it to expand its bed count from 110 to 168. Each year, Harmony House assists over 900 women, men, and children in our community.

To keep track of all of our Non-Profit Heroes, presented by American National Insurance, visit springfieldcardinals.com/heroes.

Do you need help or want to get involved?

Volunteers are such a big part of what make all of our Non-Profit Heroes, presented by American National Insurance, so great. To get involved with Harmony House, contact them at myharmonyhouse.org/contact.

If you need help, call the Harmony House 24-hour hotline at 417-864-7233 or toll free at 800-831-6863. You can also visit myharmonyhouse.org for additional resources.

For more on what Harmony House is doing for our region on a daily basis, follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/**myharmonyhouse.**

PaddleHeads + YWCA Campaign Raises $46,570

As the PaddleHeads & YWCA ‘Strike Out Domestic Violence’ came to a close on Sunday, the support in this wonderful community has never been more prevalent. Surpassing the goal of $20,000 fundraised, YWCA Missoula received $21,570 in direct donations!

The fundraising campaign, developed to support the Missoula YWCA Domestic Violence Program, received a PaddleHeads’ $1-for-$1 match on donations to YWCA, up to $20,000 – with an additional match from the PaddleHeads to YWCA on all merchandise sold online during this time period, bringing the two week fundraising total to $46,570!

“We are blown away by the success of this campaign.” Said, YWCA Communications Coordinator Becky Margolis. “It’s truly a reflection of how generous this community is, and how we continue to show up and support one another through challenging times. Thank you to the Missoula PaddleHeads and to every single one of people who donated.”

“Our franchise has committed to being the best steward we can be for our community.” Said PaddleHeads’ Director of Merchandise & People Engagement Kim Klages Johns. “We are truly humbled by the response and support this campaign has brought about. This pandemic has turned everyone’s world upside down and we recognize some are more gravely affected than others. Because of COVID shutdown Missoula YWCA was seeing a growing gap between need and funding specifically for their Domestic Violence Program. We are incredibly proud to partner with the YWCA and can’t thank our fans and community enough for their unprecedented support of this campaign.”

Though the Strike Out Domestic Violence Campaign has come to a close, now more than ever it is important for us all to continue and create a positive impact in our community. If you are in a position to give, we urge you to visit https://ywcaofmissoula.org/donate/ and donate directly to any of the YWCA’s community programs. Check on your neighbors and friends, while still maintaining social distance precautions. If you’re concerned that someone might be unsafe and you want to learn how to help support them, call the YWCA crisis line: 406-542-1944.

PaddleHeads, YWCA Launch Strike Out Domestic Violence Campaign

 

 

The Missoula PaddleHeads, in conjunction with YWCA Missoula, have announced the fundraising campaign, Strike Out Domestic Violence. The fundraising campaign, developed to support the Missoula YWCA Domestic Violence Program, will receive a PaddleHeads’ $1-for-$1 match, up to $20,000. The Strike Out Domestic Violence Campaign will run from April 27th to

The Missoula PaddleHeads, in conjunction with YWCA Missoula, have announced the fundraising campaign, Strike Out Domestic Violence. The fundraising campaign, developed to support the Missoula YWCA Domestic Violence Program, will receive a PaddleHeads’ $1-for-$1 match, up to $20,000. The Strike Out Domestic Violence Campaign will run from April 27th to May 10th.

“Abuse happens behind closed doors. We often don’t notice that it’s happening, even when the victim is a friend or neighbor.” said YWCA Communications Coordinator, Becky Margolis. “Social isolation measures necessitated by the coronavirus pandemic make this an especially dangerous time for people trapped at home with an abuser. Now, more than ever, survivors and their children need access to safety and support.”

Supporters will have two ways to donate to the Strike Out Domestic Violence Campaign.

The first, donate directly to YWCA Missoula’s crowdfunding campaign here: (https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E341298&id=33)
Second, purchase any merchandise item from the Missoula PaddleHeads’ shop at: https://paddleheads.milbstore.com during this campaign. Every dollar spent, or donated during this campaign will receive a $1-for-$1 match from the PaddleHeads up to $20,000!

Your contribution helps meet critical needs at a critical time:

  • Operation of the YWCA’s secure domestic violence shelter
  • Crisis counseling and support to help survivors heal from abuse
  • Food, phone cards, diapers and other necessities for survivors and their children
  • Masks, hand sanitizer, and other protective measures
  • Operation of our 24/7 crisis line: a lifeline that’s available anytime a survivor reaches out

“Our franchise is more than just a baseball team, we are an active community partner committed to using industry to help others rise, especially in times of difficulty,” said PaddleHeads’ Director of Marketing & Public Relations, Taylor Rush. “We feel privileged to support the YWCA Missoula. It is everyone’s basic right to feel safe, valued and protected, and we commend the work being done to support survivors of domestic violence who have been adversely impacted by this pandemic. We hope the great city of Missoula will rally behind this cause, and support this incredibly important program.”

Check on your neighbors and friends, while still maintaining social distance precautions. If you’re concerned that someone might be unsafe and you want to learn how to help support them, call the YWCA crisis line: 406-542-1944.

The Strike Out Domestic Violence campaign will only run from April 27th to May 10th. If you can, donate directly or purchase any item from the PaddleHeads’ store, double your impact, and support those in need.

Read More:

Pulaski Yankees release 2019 charitable contributions

 

PULASKI, Va. – The Pulaski Yankees today announced the organization made over $282,000 in charitable contributions during the 2019 calendar year, an increase of over $250,000 from 2018. Through the new Calfee Cares community relations program, the Yankees made $253,587 in gift in kind donations and $28,833 in cash donations from in-stadium fundraising efforts.

“When we introduced Calfee Cares in May of 2019, our goal was to prioritize our community relations efforts and continually find and create opportunities to give back to the fans, businesses, and community organizations in Pulaski who support us all season long,” said Pulaski Yankees General Manager Betsy Haugh. “We could not be more thrilled with the results from 2019 and the contributions our organization and players made last season.”

Yankees players and staff members totaled 536 hours in volunteer efforts and community appearances during 2019 across more than 35 different events, including the Yankees’ annual HOPE Week (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) initiative presented by Gay & Neel, Inc.

22 of the team’s 34 regular-season home games had a community tie, most notably Agriculture Night 2.0 presented by Farm Credit of the Virginias which led to a $4,250 donation to the Virginia Tech Agriculture Extension and Pulaski County 4-H, and fan favorites such as Heroes Night (SERVPRO of Pulaski County) and Military Appreciation Night (Pulaski Health & Rehabilitation Center).

The Yankees participated in five MiLB Charities national initiatives, including Sun Safety Awareness (American Cancer Society), Domestic Violence Awareness (Joe Torre Safe at Home Foundation), Stars & Stripes Caps (New Era Cap Co.), MiLB CommUNITY (Allegiant Airlines), and Hope at Bat (American Cancer Society).

Calfee Park also hosted three community-focused special events – the first-ever Pulaski Yankees 5K benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Virginia, Homers for Hearts benefitting the American Heart Association, and Guns and Hoses benefitting the New River Valley Agency on Aging.

Additionally, the Yankees began partnerships with the American Cancer Society (also an MiLB Charity Partner) and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Virginia, joining a lineup of local community partners that includes Shelor Motor Mile Growing the Future and the Pulaski County 4-H.

“Our community partnerships are so important to us and our efforts to give back to the community,” Haugh said. “We look forward to working with these four again in 2020 and introducing a few new community partnerships for the coming season.”

Including Pulaski’s $282,420, the Appalachian League’s reported contributions from 2019 total $2,347,712.

Season tickets and flex packs are now on sale for the 2020 Pulaski Yankees season, which gets underway at Motor Mile Field at Calfee Park on June 22. Tickets can be purchased online at pulaskiyankees.net, by phone at (540) 980-1070, or in person at the Calfee Park offices. Individual game tickets will go on sale on April 1.

The Pulaski Yankees are the Advanced Rookie level affiliate of the New York Yankees playing in the Appalachian League. Pulaski is celebrating its 54th season in the Appalachian League in 2019. Calfee Park has won league championships in 1948, 1969, 1986, 1991 and 2013. Motor Mile Field at Calfee Park opened in 1935 and was renovated for the team’s first season as a Yankees affiliate in 2015. The Pulaski Yankees were named the recipient of the John H. Johnson President’s Award, Minor League Baseball’s top honor, in 2019. For more information, please visit www.pulaskiyankees.net or follow the Pulaski Yankees on social media, @PulaskiYanks (Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram). This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

Dragons and Vectren Present 2018 “Community All-Stars”

Dayton, Ohio – The Dragons and Vectren will honor Olivia Velez during the unique “Community All-Stars” program on Tuesday, May 8 at 7:00 p.m. when the Dayton Dragons take on the Cedar Rapids Kernels at Fifth Third Field.

The Dayton community is a great place to live, work and play. But what makes Dayton truly great are the people that call Dayton home. We have great people and great organizations in our community that do incredible things each and every day. Throughout the season, the Dragons and Vectren will honor five “All-Stars” with a special inning break tribute in recognition of their service.

Olivia’s Story: “Little Girl, Big Heart”

At the age of 5, Olivia Velez’s life flipped upside down. She was uprooted from her home and sent to live with her grandma, but these moments never stopped her caring soul. She told her grandma, Tina, that she wanted to help kids in similar or worse situations. After brainstorming, they started collecting get-well-cards to send to children. These cards were full of googly eyes, funny jokes, and encouragement. Though she already brought smiles to hundreds of kids’ faces, she realized she could do more.

At the age of 7, Olivia started “Project Local Hugs”- an organization that takes donated goods and delivers them to those in need. Olivia and her grandma started collecting purses and included items like hair brushes, hand sanitizer, body wash, toothbrushes and toothpaste. Once completed, these purses are given to the local Young Women’s Christian Associate for women who are seeking a safe shelter from domestic violence or drug abuse.

Continuing to grow their organization, Olivia started collecting backpacks full of notebooks, pens and crayons to deliver to kids in situations similar to what she experienced. “It makes me feel better that I’ve done something good” Olivia said. “We should always be kind and think about others.”

As a 10-year-old, Olivia recently won the Domestic Violence Prevention Project awarded Montgomery County, and continues to shine throughout the Dayton Community. To learn more about Project Local Hugs, you can visit www.facebook.com/projectlocalhugs

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program is made possible by the generous support of Vectren. For more information or to nominate an All-Star in your life, visit www.daytondragons.com/communityallstar.

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

Cougars Announce Charitable Partners for 2018 Season

GENEVA, Ill. – The Kane County Cougars have announced the four local organizations that will receive a portion of the in-game 50/50 raffle proceeds through the Kane County Cougars Foundation, Inc. including Mutual Ground (April-May), CASA Kane County (June), Northern Illinois Food Bank (July) and BraveHearts for Kids (August-September). In addition, through a partnership with Acres Group, the Cougars have announced that Loaves and Fishes Community Services will be the recipient of the charitable proceeds from this year’s Pitch-In for Charity promotion in which fans purchase and toss numbered tennis balls at a target on the field to win a prize following select games.

Mutual Ground (mutualground.org) – Located in Aurora, Mutual Ground is a safe place where people can come together to break the cycle of domestic violence and sexual abuse while providing education, awareness and life-changing services that empower individuals, families and communities.

CASA Kane County (casakanecounty.org) – CASA is a non-profit volunteer organization that advocates for the best interests of abused and neglected children within the juvenile court system since 1988.

Northern Illinois Food Bank (solvehungertoday.org) – Each week, Northern Illinois Food Bank provides more than 71,000 people with nutritious food and hope through their innovative feeding programs and partnerships across Northern Illinois.

BraveHearts for Kids (braveheartsforkids.org) – BraveHearts for Kids provide one-on-one mentoring, information and emotional support for children diagnosed with pediatric cancer as well as their families.

Loaves and Fishes CARES (loaves-fishes.org) – Located in Naperville, Loaves and Fishes Community Services provides groceries and essential support services to more than 2,000 families each month. Additional programs include job search support, skill-based classes and public benefit assistance to assist and empower clients towards a life of self-sufficiency.

The Cougars 2018 season begins on Thursday, April 5 at 6:30 PM against the Clinton LumberKings. For more information, including the full schedule of theme nights, entertainment acts and giveaways scheduled, visit kccougars.com.

Follow the Cougars on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates on tickets and promotions.

About the Kane County Cougars

The Cougars, Class-A Minor League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, have been at the forefront of family-friendly entertainment since 1991. In 2015, the franchise became the first Class-A team in Minor League Baseball history to welcome 11 million fans through the gates. A total of 161 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues including Miguel Cabrera, Nelson Cruz, Josh Beckett, Adrian Gonzalez and Kyle Schwarber.

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

BlueClaws Charities Hands Out Grants to 40 Community Partner Organizations

BlueClaws Charities completed their grant program, handing out grants to its Community Partner organizations.

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LAKEWOOD, NJ – BlueClaws Charities, the official 501c3 non-profit organization of the Lakewood BlueClaws, completed its 2017 grant program, handing out grants to 40 Community Partner organizations.

All Community Partners applied for and received a grant from BlueClaws Charities this year. Each applicant was asked to detail a specific use for the grant, with the requirement that all money received from BlueClaws Charities stays in Ocean & Monmouth Counties. A complete list can be found below.

“BlueClaws Charities is proud to be able to support such a wide-variety of organizations in our communities,” said Jim DeAngelis, the BlueClaws Vice President of Community Relations and Executive Director of BlueClaws Charities. “These organizations have pledged to keep all funds in Ocean & Monmouth Counties and they are doing spectacular work to assist the underserved. It is our pleasure to be able to lend financial support.”

BlueClaws Charities raises money throughout the year through special events like the Nine & Dine Golf Outing and Phillies Winter Banquet, through jersey and other specialty merchandise auctions, and a 50/50 raffle at each BlueClaws home game.

“Our fans and donors have been tremendously supportive of BlueClaws Charities over the years, and this year was no exception,” said DeAngelis. “We look forward to another successful season in 2018!”

The following organizations received a grant from BlueClaws Charities.

  • ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia to subsidize their Chapters Care Services Program for ALS patient families in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Alzheimer’s Association of Greater New Jersey to offset costs for a fundraising event to benefit New Jersey residents.
  • The Arc, Ocean County Chapter to subsidize costs associated with their major fundraising event, The Arc Walkathon.
  • The Ashley Lauren Foundation to assist children with cancer and their families through direct financial assistance.
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ocean County to provide group mentoring activities which enables children on their waiting list to become involved with the agency.
  • Boy Scouts of America, Jersey Shore Council to provide program support for their ScoutReach Cub Scout Pack at Clifton Elementary School in Lakewood.
  • Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey to help defray costs of criminal background checks on volunteers prior to assignments.
  • Cheer Dream Xplosion Foundation to purchase equipment for their special needs program.
  • Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation to improve the quality of life of those affected by the disease in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Daniela’s Wish to grant wishes to ill children in their communities.
  • David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation to support families in Ocean & Monmouth counties affected by a cancer diagnosis.
  • Dottie’s House to help funding their transitional housing program designed to provide survivors of domestic violence with tools, guidance and support to achieve financial and emotional independence.
  • Easter Seals New Jersey to provide individuals with disabilities and special needs the training and skills needed to independently work within their communities.
  • Emiliana’s Hope to spread cheer to pediatric cancer patients in the area.
  • Exit 82 Theatre Company to help fund their 2018 production season.
  • Family Options Adoptions to provide funding for birth parent scholarships and supplies for birth mothers that decide to parent.
  • Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore to help offer over 200 underserved girls from Lakewood the opportunity to attend the Girls Are Great summer day camp.
  • Go4TheGoal to help kids with cancer achieve their goals.
  • HABcore to help fund the supportive services program component of HABcore’s Rapid Re-Housing program in Ocean County.
  • Holiday Express to help provide a unique interactive holiday musical program, led by volunteer professionals, to individuals who are often forgotten by society and in need of kindness.
  • JAR of Hope to help fund research to eliminate Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
  • Kids Need More to enhance the lives of children, families, and young adults coping with cancer and life threatening illness.
  • LADACIN Network to support their integrated Child Care program to empower children with and without disabilities to work together to succeed in their future education.
  • Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund to assist the organization in its mission to aid wounded warriors and their families.
  • Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanities for repairs for the 21 Easter Seals group homes.
  • Ocean County Family Support Organization to help offset the costs of trips for our Youth Partnership program.
  • Ocean County Shrine Club to support the hospital’s MAGEC System, an adjustable magnetic growing rod used in a non-invasive, non-surgical manner to brace a child’s spine during childhood growth to minimize the progression of scoliosis.
  • Ocean County YMCA to help kids, families, and seniors in the community find assets in YMCA programs and memberships regardless of incomes and backgrounds.
  • Ocean’s Harbor House to provide for the fundamentals of setting up a household after youth graduate from the Transitional Living Program.
  • Ocean Partnership for Children to provide needy children and teens served by Ocean Partnership with winter attire, including hats, coats, boots, mittens, and gloves.
  • Piece of the Puzzle to purchase a computer desk and stool for their offices.
  • Parents of Autistic Children to provide a challenger sports league designed to offer a socialization opportunity through athletic participation between disabled students from different high school and middle schools in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Raising Hope for Others to assist with financial cost of organizing and running its major fundraiser.
  • RJM Sportsgroup to provide scholarships to Jackson Township graduates.
  • Saint Vincent DePaul Society to help pay for temporary sheltering for the homeless.
  • The Salvation Army of Ocean County to provide funding to their Feeding Program.
  • The Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide to help their Youth Council seeking to engage ambassadors in the prevention process.
  • The TEARS Foundation to provide assistance to families who have lost a child due to pregnancy or sustained the sudden loss of an infant or child in Monmouth & Ocean Counties.
  • Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund to provide a scholarship to graduating seniors.
  • United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties to purchase warm clothing for lower income children.

BlueClaws Charities, in addition to the grant program, supports hundreds of non-profit organizations with gift package donations, golf outing hole-in-one sponsorships, and specialty organizations such as OCEAN, Inc., a federal program that assists the less fortunate in the community. The “Tickets for Kids Program,” another BlueClaws Charities initiative, donates over 2,000 tickets to under-served youths in Lakewood and elsewhere in Ocean County.

Organizations that would like to become Community Partners can call Jim DeAngelis at 732-901-7000 ext 114. Community Partners raise money through a BlueClaws fundraiser outing and have the opportunity to volunteer in the FirstEnergy Park concession stands to raise additional funds. These organizations also receive exposure through on-field presentations, table displays, and on BlueClaws.com, plus they have special opportunities to hold events, such as charity walks, at FirstEnergy Park.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They crossed the 7-million fan plateau in 2017.

2018 BlueClaws ticket packages and group outings are currently on sale by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com.

– BlueClaws Charities –

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

RCS Pinellas and the Threshers Hit a Home Run for Families in Need

CLEARWATER, Fla. – RCS Pinellas and the Clearwater Threshers are teaming up to serve families and those in need in Pinellas County. On Monday, August 14, Threshers players will be volunteering at the RCS Food Bank in Clearwater in support of the RCS mission to feed the hungry, help families facing homelessness return to self-sufficiency, and empower survivors of domestic violence.

“How incredibly generous and kind of the Threshers to take time away from their busy season to join us in our daily fight against hunger in our community,” said Kirk Ray Smith, BHS, MHS President and CEO, RCS Pinellas. “Here at RCS Pinellas, we depend on the help of over 2,500 volunteers each year to accomplish our mission. Without individuals and groups like the Threshers there would be no RCS. The real home run is seeing children and families run home with a bag full of groceries!”

As members of the Philadelphia Phillies minor-league system, Threshers players participate in the Step Up Community Service Program – which provides opportunities to volunteer and encourages the young athletes to give back to their local communities. The partnership of RCS and the Threshers represents the service-minded goals of both organizations.

The programs at RCS Pinellas include:

RCS Food Bank – provides nutritious food to our Pinellas County neighbors who need help stretching their grocery budget.

RCS Grace House – helps individuals and families facing homelessness return to self-sufficiency. We provide families with 8 weeks of apartment style housing and other wrap-around services.

RCS Thrift Store – provides high quality shopping experiences for our community and program participants at little or no cost.

The Haven of RCS – provides safety, security and support for women and children facing domestic abuse.

Find out more about RCS Pinellas at rcspinellas.org.  

RailRiders Announce HOPE Week Activities

Moosic, Pa. – What 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 Monday, June 19, the RailRiders will join the New York Yankees in support of HOPE (Helping Others Persevere and Excel) Week 2017, a unique week-long communal program that brings to light extraordinary stories intended to inspire individuals into action in their own communities.

Initiated in 2009 and now in its eighth 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 Monday, June 19, through Sunday, June 25, members of the RailRiders front office staff or club will reach out personally to connect with an organization, cause or individual. 2017 marks the sixth 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.

“Being a part of the Yankees family is special. HOPE Week is one of the unbelievable programs that solidifies the ‘Yankee way’ and how important it is to impact your community,” said RailRiders Team Pesident/COO Josh Olerud.

On Monday, June 19, will hold a special meet and greet between SWB players and military veterans. Local veterans from St. Francis Commons Veterans Program in Scranton will receive tickets to the game and will have a special meet and greet with players at the field before the game. These veteran groups in attendance will receive special recognition during the Hometown Heroes in-game announcement.

From 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20, players, coaches and front office staff will help box up meals for the Commission on Economic Opportunity’s “Senior Box Program” at the Weinberg Northeast Regional Foodbank in Pittston, PA. The CEO’s “Senior Box Program” provides meals to over 2,000 senior citizens in the area every month.

Wednesday, June 21, will feature a visit to the Janet Weis Children’s Unit at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Hospital. Players, coaches, front office staff, and CHAMP will visit the patients in the Children’s Unit of the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Hospital from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The visit will include reading to and visiting with the kids, coloring CHAMP and other fun pages and each child will get a special gift to keep. During the game, autographed memorabilia will be auctioned off and the proceeds will be given to the Ronald McDonald House of Scranton towards their efforts to support families of children who are in the hospitals in the local Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area.

RailRiders players will make a special visit on Thursday, June 22, to see a local Nanticoke area high school senior varsity baseball player, Aaron Kreitzer, who is in the hospital battling leukemia. Kreitzer will also be presented with his own custom RailRiders jersey. Since his diagnosis, Kreitzer’s high school baseball team, fellow students, and the whole Greater Nanticoke area community have rallied around him and his family throwing charity softball tournaments and fundraising benefits.

SWB will kick-off their annual RailRiders Vs. Cancer fundraiser on Friday, June 23. Fans will be informed of the fundraiser, the date of the head shaving will be announced, and past year’s fundraising campaign success will be highlighted. The RailRiders will also get to choose a local pediatric cancer program to receive half of the funds raised in this season’s campaign. Fans at the ballpark will be given the team fundraising website information.

From 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 24, players, coaches and staff will volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. They will put the finishing touches on a home in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., for a low-income family to purchase in July. The Wyoming Valley Habitat for Humanity restored the home for a single mother and her five-year-old daughter.

The team will wrap up their HOPE Week on Sunday, June 25, by participating in Minor League Baseball’s Joe Torre “Safe at Home” Domestic Violence Awareness Initiative. MiLB Charities has teamed up with the Joe Torre “Safe at Home” Foundation to raise awareness for domestic violence and educate fans about the resources available to help those in need. The first 500 fans at the game will receive Topps Card Sets featuring MLB veterans and top prospects and a signed Joe Torre Baseball will be raffled or auctioned off for the charity of our choosing. A representative from the Joe Torre Foundation will also be in attendance.

Our Community Organization of the Game will be the Mary Kay Foundation whose mission is to serve and support women with cancer and women and children affected by domestic violence. The Mary Kay Foundation will be selling their t-shirts during the game to raise money for their local programs. There will also be a “supply” drive (Items such as hygiene products, diapers, baby food and formula, school supplies, bus tickets and a no-longer used cell phone can make an important difference).

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 weeklong festivities should be directed to RailRiders director of community relations Jordan Maydole by calling 570-969-2255 (ext. 3140) or by e-mailing jmaydole@swbrailriders.com.

The 2016 Gildan Triple-A National Champion RailRiders hit the road for four games in three days against the Buffalo Bisons (Toronto Blue Jays) beginning Friday, June 16. First pitch at Coca-Cola Field is set for 7:05 p.m. The boys of SWB return home on Monday, June 19, against the Syracuse Chiefs (Washington Nationals). Every Monday home game at PNC Field is Dollar Dog Night, presented by the Times-Tribune. For tickets or more information, please call 570-969-BALL (2255) or visit swbrailriders.com.

– SWB RailRiders Baseball – The Place to Be! –

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

Sea Dogs Partner with Movers for Moms®

Portland, Maine– The Portland Sea Dogs have partnered with Movers for Moms® to help moms in need this Mother’s Day.

Movers for Moms® collects essential care and pampering items for women staying in domestic violence shelters. TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Portland is collecting items for delivery to Family Crisis Services. Family Crisis Services is a 16-bed emergency shelter and domestic violence resource center.

Fans attending Sea Dogs games on May 8th, May 9th, and May 10th are asked to bring items to the ballpark to be donated to the campaign.

Much needed items include:

  • Full size shampoo/ conditioner
  • Full size body wash/ bar soap
  • Feminine Hygiene Products
  • Full size deodorant/ perfume
  • Hair care/ nail care items
  • Make-up
  • Full size body lotion
  • Dishes/ small appliances
  • Diapers/ wipes/ baby powder
  • Gift Cards
  • Toilet paper/ paper towels
  • Cleaning / home essentials

Your donation to Movers for Moms® helps local mothers in need create a better live for themselves and their families.

Last year the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® Movers for Moms® campaign collected over 285,000 items nationally and delivered items to hundreds of shelters across the United States.

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

Cougars Announce Charity Partnerships For 2015 Season

Partnerships with multiple organizations to positively impact local causes in 2015

Kane-County-CougarsThe Kane County Cougars have announced a community outreach partnership for the 2015 season in which four organizations will receive a portion of the in-game 50/50 raffle proceeds through Ozzie’s Outreach Foundation, the Cougars’ charitable arm. Those four organizations are Project Backpack (April/May), DuPage Pads (June), Northern Illinois Food Bank (July) and Family Shelter Service (August/September). Also, the Cougars through their partnership with Acres Group, have announced that the Gateway Foundation Alcohol & Drug Treatment Centers will be the recipient of the charitable proceeds from this season’s “Pitch In For Charity” promotion in which fans, following select games, purchase and throw numbered tennis balls onto a target in order to win a prize.

Project Backpack (project-backpack.org) is a community-based initiative led by Elgin Community College that benefits local students who are in need of necessary school supplies.

DuPage Pads (dupagepads.org) has the solution to end homelessness with housing coupled with support services and employment which leads to improved health and economic sustainability.

Northern Illinois Food Bank (solvehungertoday.org) works with 800 community food pantries and feeding programs across 13 counties to solve hunger in northern Illinois by providing nutritious food to more than 71,000 people at risk of hunger each week. Volunteers can assist at one of their three centers including their west suburban location in Geneva.

Family Shelter Service (familyshelterservice.org), founded in 1976 and located in nearby Wheaton, transforms lives by offering help and hope to those affected by domestic violence.

Gateway Foundation Alcohol & Drug Treatment Centers (recovergateway.org) have provided the answers that individuals and their families need about drug and alcohol treatment. The organization has several treatment centers throughout Illinois, including nearby Aurora.

“Since the franchise’s inaugural season in 1991 and continuing through our upcoming 25th anniversary season, the Cougars’ organization has strived to be the best possible neighbor by giving back to the community in many ways,” said Cougars Vice President/General Manager Curtis Haug.

“Through these types of initiatives, fans can see how deep our commitment is as an organization towards helping others in need,” said Cougars owner Dr. Bob Froehlich.

Added Cougars owner Cheryl Froehlich: “We are reminded more than ever when these milestone seasons occur, that the Cougars organization is aware of how much support that has been shown to us over the years and how critically important it is to give back.”

For more information on the Kane County Cougars and the organization’s upcoming 25th anniversary season which begins on April 9, fans can visit kccougars.com. Fans are also encouraged to ‘like’ the Cougars on Facebook while following the team via Twitter and Instagram at kccougars.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Kane County Cougars. Click here to view the original story.