Down Syndrome

Scrappers Announce Partnership with Down Syndrome Association of the Valley with Specialty Team Jersey Auction

March 23, 2022

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

NILES, OH – The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are excited to unveil the first of a series of five specialty jersey nights during the 2022 season. The Scrappers have partnered with the Down Syndrome Association of the Valley to create a specialty jersey that the Scrappers players will wear for Down Syndrome Awareness Night on Friday, July 22nd against the State College Spikes. Game worn jerseys will be auctioned off in person at the game and also online at mvscrappers.com and LiveSource. Jersey proceeds will benefit the Down Syndrome Association of the Valley.

“The Down Syndrome Association of the Valley truly values its partnership with the Mahoning Valley Scrappers and appreciates the support and generosity that they provide not only to nonprofits such as ours, but to the entire community”, states Michele Jones, DSAV President and Co-Founder. “Our goal at DSAV is to create opportunities in which individuals with Down syndrome can actively participate in society and reach their full potential. The Scrappers’ community minded reach ensures that individuals with Down syndrome are included in the local community and in fact, even feature them. This type of generosity gives wings to the dreams of individuals with Down syndrome and their families across the region.”

The Mahoning Valley Scrappers are set to open the 2022 season at Eastwood Field on Thursday, June 2 against the West Virginia Black Bears. Opening Night will also feature fan favorites post-game fireworks and Buck Night. Scrappers ticket packages and sponsorship opportunities are on sale now. To stay up to date with the Scrappers in the off-season or for more information, visit mvscrappers.com or contact the front office at 330-505-0000.

MVDSA Buddy Walk coming to Fifth Third Field on Saturday, Sept. 28

September 24, 2019

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Dayton, Ohio – Fifth Third Field will host the 17th Annual Miami Valley Down Syndrome Association Buddy Walk® on Saturday, September 28th from 8:30 a.m. – 12 noon. The Buddy Walk®, which raises awareness and promotes inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome, will take place at Fifth Third Field for the seventh consecutive year. Online registration is open to the public for $5.00. Individuals with Down syndrome can register for free to include a Buddy Walk® shirt. Limited sizes of event shirts will be available for sale on event day. Every dollar benefits the MVDSA.

Fifth Third Field will open its gates for day-of registration starting at 8:30 a.m. on September 28th. Donations will also be accepted at the registration table.

Activities at the ballpark begin at 8:30 a.m. The Dragons Zone will be open with face painters and a photo booth. Dragons mascots Heater and Gem will roam the concourse and take pictures with those in attendance. The walk around Fifth Third Field begins at 10 a.m., with the post-walk fun continuing until 12:00 noon when raffle prize and silent auction winners will be announced.

More information is available at ds-stride.org/daytonbuddywalk

The Buddy Walk® was established by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness and to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. Today, the Buddy Walk® program is supported nationally by NDSS and organized at the local level by the Miami Valley Down Syndrome Association (MVDSA).

ABOUT THE MVDSA

The Miami Valley Down Syndrome Association is a network of parents, health care providers, volunteers, family members, and community supporters providing help and support to people throughout the Miami Valley with Down Syndrome. Through the generous support of the community, the MVDSA is able to develop programs and services that will help to enhance the quality of life for individuals with Down Syndrome. For more information, visit their website at http://www.mvdsa.org/

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

10th Annual Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk, September 30 at Coca-Cola Field

September 25, 2017

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

October is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month and the Down Syndrome Parents Group of Western New York will continue its mission of education, support and celebration with a very special 10th Annual Step Up for Down Syndrome Walk, Saturday, September 30th at Coca-Cola Field (11:00 a.m.).

Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition in newborns in the United States, occurring in approximately one in every 700 babies. But while most people with Down syndrome have a mild to moderate cognitive or intellectual disability, the condition cannot and should not overshadow the many strengths and talents these individuals possess.

The Step up For Down Syndrome Walk aims to educate, support and celebrate those individuals and those families with Down Syndrome. The event runs from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Coca-Cola Field, beginning with a one-mile walk through the Harbor Center, led by the Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts, Arts-Tech Marching Band. Afterwards, all are welcome to stay in the Coca-Cola Field CF Pavilion area to enjoy great food, fun arts & crafts and games, a photo booth, raffles and educational information. There will also be special performances by individuals with Down syndrome as well as music by The Strictly Hip.

Anyone is welcome to attend the event, including day of walkups. Cost is only $10 per person and includes a free lunch. Contact Amy Monson at amonson23@gmail.com or (716)-677-0604 for more information.

The Down Syndrome Parents Group of Western New York is a 501c3 non-profit organization which was formed in 1987 by a group of parents whom connected through the common bond of parenting children born with Down syndrome. Since its inception, the group has supported hundreds of families in and around the Western New York area while promoting awareness of Down syndrome, and acceptance of individuals born with Downs. Through a series of annual events which have become a yearly tradition for many families in the area, DSPGWNY has continually expanded awareness of Down syndrome while enriching the lives of the many people whom have taken part.

For more information, visit DSPGWNY.com any questions or contact the group at (716) 832-9334.

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

Chasers in the Community: August

September 7, 2017

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Storm Chasers players and front office members participated in the third annual Chasers Community Week last month, which included visits to Southwest YMCA, Ronald McDonald House and Children’s Hospital. The Storm Chasers and Werner Enterprises were both honored to have The Wall That Heals at Werner Park which featured a half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. In total, front office staff members also combined to record 208 hours of community service in the month of August.

Community Week Recap (208.75 Hours from front office)

Storm Chasers players Christian Binford and Logan Moon played baseball with kids at the Southwest YMCA– July 31
Meals that Heals for Ronald McDonald House with Summit Dental – August 1
The Storm Chasers organization along with Werner Enterprises hosted The Wall That Heals, half-sized replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, at Werner Park – August 3-6
Storm Chasers players Christian Binford and Logan Moon visited Children’s Hospital – August 4
Storm Chasers Players and Front Office Staff Members participated in Bellevue Buddy Baseball at Werner Park – August 5
The Omaha Storm Chasers organization teamed up with WOWT and First National Bank to Stuff the Bus – August 5

Community Events in August

Be the One Ralston Public Schools Kickoff – August 11
Stormy and Storm Chasers player Logan Moon attended the End of Summer Bash at First National Bank – August 12
Storm Chasers players Christian Binford and Terrance Gore visited with patients at Madonna Hospital– August 15
Focus on the Future Welcome at Papillion La Vista South High School – August 16
Heartland Hope Mission Pantry Sponsor of the Month – August 17
ALS Walk – August 19

Upcoming Community Events in September

St. Robert Bellarmine School Walk – September 15 (10:00am)
St. Stephen the Martyr Event – September 15 (9:00am)
Prairie Queen Fun Run – September 22 (9:00am)

Notable Mascot Appearances for August (over 40 appearances)

Fremont Raising Cane’s Ribbon Cutting – August 8
JDRF One Walk – August 19
Millard Days Parade – August 26
Bellevue Public Schools– August 31

Upcoming Scheduled Mascot Appearances for September

Child Saving Institute Touch A Truck – September 9
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Fundraiser – September 10
Turner BBQ – September 22
Down Syndrome Alliance Buddy Walk – September 30
HyVee Pinky Swear – September 30

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

Chasers Players, Front Office Staff to Participate in Chasers Community Week

July 26, 2017

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

The Omaha Storm Chasers organization’s third annual “Chasers Community Week” presented by Summit Dental Health kicks off on Friday, July 29. Omaha Storm Chasers players and front office members will be volunteering their time throughout the Omaha Metro community from July 29-August 6. Details for each day of “Chasers Community Week” can be found below, which include players visiting Children’s Hospital and the Southwest YMCA, as well as participating in Buddy Baseball at Werner Park. In addition, the front office will help serve dinner at Ronald McDonald House, and volunteer at The Wall That Heals among many other events in the community.

Planned Events for “Chasers Community Week”

Saturday, July 29 – The Storm Chasers organization will be auctioning off Christmas sweater jerseys on Christmas in July presented by Mannheim Steamroller, with the proceeds benefitting Moving Veterans Forward. There will also be a lemonade stand hosted by the Storm Chasers and Summit Dental at Werner Park that evening, with proceeds benefitting the Open Door Mission.
Sunday, July 30 – The Storm Chasers organization hosts the first of two UnitedHealthcare Library Nights at Werner Park. This will be in addition to hosting First Responders and having interactive fire, police and medical displays, including a helicopter in the parking lot, on First Responders Night that evening.
Monday, July 31 – Several Storm Chasers players will be visiting Southwest YMCA starting at 11:00 a.m. to play a pickup game of baseball with kids at that location. That evening, the Storm Chasers organization’s second UnitedHealthcare Library Night will take place at Werner Park, in addition to a Drawstring Backpack Giveaway presented by Huber Chevrolet.
Tuesday, August 1 – Storm Chasers front office members along with Summit Dental Health employees will assist in cooking and serving dinner at the Ronald McDonald House.
Wednesday, August 2 – The organization will host their annual Jirschele Family Memorial Golf Outing at Tara Hills Golf Course to help benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association beginning at 9:00 a.m. The Wall That Heals, a half-scale duplication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., is also set to arrive at Werner Park that day thanks to Werner Enterprises. Storm Chasers players and front office members will also participate in the Leader Reader at the Children’s Museum. Storm Chasers front office members and a mascot will also be visiting Offutt Air Force Base that day.
Thursday, August 3 – The Wall That Heals, a half-scale replica of the Vietnam War Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. will be open beginning at 11:00am until the closing ceremonies take place at approximately 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 6.
Friday, August 4 – Storm Chasers players will be visiting with patients at Children’s Hospital.
Saturday, August 5 – Bellevue Buddy Baseball will take place at Werner Park at 9:00 a.m., with Storm Chasers players and front office members assisting in the morning event to support the Down Syndrome Alliance. The event will feature headshots and walk-up songs for the buddies playing baseball. Storm Chasers players and Casey will also be at First National Bank on 132^nd & Center for their annual Stuff the Bus school supply drive.
Sunday, August 6 – The Storm Chasers organization salutes all former and current members of our armed forces on Military Appreciation Day at Werner Park. Following that day’s contest at approximately 6:00 p.m. will be a closing ceremony for The Wall That Heals, which will include the playing of “Taps”.

The Storm Chasers return to Werner Park to begin an eight-game homestand on Saturday, July 29, starting with a four-game set versus the Fresno Grizzlies. First pitch of the series opener is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. that evening.

Single game tickets for all remaining Storm Chasers home contests are still available, and can be purchased online at www.omahastormchasers.com, or by calling the Werner Park Ticket Office from noon until 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday at (402) 738-5100.

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

Fifth Third Field to Host MVDSA Buddy Walk

September 13, 2016

Here is a link to the original story on the team's website.

Dayton, Ohio-The 14th Annual Miami Valley Down Syndrome Association (MVDSA) Dayton Buddy Walk® will take place at Fifth Third Field on Saturday, September 17th beginning at 8:30 a.m. More than 2,000 people are expected to attend the event, which is one of over 250 Walks across the country this fall to raise awareness and funds for programs that benefit people with Down syndrome and their families.

The National Buddy Walk® Program welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. The goals of the program are to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome and to positively influence local and national policy and practice. Last year alone, Buddy Walk® events raised nearly $13 million to benefit national advocacy initiatives, as well as local programs and services. All funds raised through the National Buddy Walk® Program support both local and national programs.

The MVDSA Dayton Buddy Walk® will feature something fun for everyone – exhibitors, activities, inflatables, a basket raffle, a 50/50 raffle, silent auction, and more! Activities around the ballpark begin at 8:30 a.m. The Entertainment Fun Zone will be open with face painters and a photo booth. Dragons mascots Heater and Gem will roam the concourse and take pictures with those in attendance. Individuals with Down syndrome will receive a medal as they complete the walk. To learn more, visit www.DaytonBuddyWalk.org, or contact the MVDSA at office@mvdsa.org or 937-222-0744.

About the Miami Valley Down Syndrome Association: The MVDSA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing life enriching opportunities, as well as information, resources and support, for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and their communities. The MVDSA serves the Miami Valley of Ohio, including the following 11 counties: Auglaize, Champaign, Clark, Darke, Greene, Logan, Mercer, Miami, Montgomery, Preble and Shelby. Learn more at www.mvdsa.org.

Contact: Jenna Stites

Executive Director

Miami Valley Down Syndrome Association

Phone: (937) 222-0744

Email: office@mvdsa.org

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

Chasers in the Community July 29-August 5

July 25, 2014

SPOTLIGHT

Third Annual Peanut Free Night at Werner Park

Hosted by the Omaha Storm Chasers and the Asthma and Allergy Center

On Tuesday, July 29^th, Werner Park will open its gates to fans with peanut allergies who cannot generally attend baseball games and other sporting events. For the entire week leading up to July 29^th, Werner Park will be sanitized and cleaned to rid of all peanut dust and allergens. There will be no peanuts, tree nuts, or sunflower seeds sold or present in the stadium. Children involved will have an opportunity to form a “Peanut Free Field of Dreams Team” and run on the field with the players prior to the game. Ticket packages also include first pitch opportunities, a meet and greet with an Omaha Storm Chaser player, and a pre-game parade.

Community Involvement Outside of the Game

VA Hospital Player Appearance – Omaha Storm Chasers staff and players will visit the VA Hospital on July 30th at 4101 Woolworth Avenue in Omaha, Nebraska.
Taste of Plattsmouth – OSC staff members and mascots will be at the Taste of Plattsmouth Business Expo on August 1^st from 5pm – 9pm located at the Entertainment Plaza on the corner of 4^th and Main Street in downtown Plattsmouth. For more information visit http://www.business.plattsmouthchamber.com/Events/details/cruizin-main-14
Science of Ice Cream – OSC staff members and Kernel Kobb will be attending the Science of Ice Cream event on August 1st from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm at 6015 Binney Street in Benson.
Flash Ticket Giveaway – Sizzle will be at the AT&T store at 7640 Towne Center Pkwy, Suite 119 in Papillion giving away Omaha Storm Chasers tickets! For more information contact Kasen Dudley at 402-738-5138.
Reading to Kids – Stormy and OSC staff will be attending the End of Summer Reading Party on August 2^nd, at the Florence Recreation Center at 2920 Bondesson Street in Florence, Nebraska from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm.
Healthy Kids Carnival – OSC staff members and mascots will be at the Healthy Kids Carnival at the Boys Town Medical campus on 139^th and Pacific streets in Omaha from 11 am – 2 pm. Activities include bounce houses, obstacle courses, healthy snacks, a basketball station, and fitness demonstrations. For more information visit http://www.boystownpediatrics.org/aboutus/Calendar/Pages/Healthy-Kids-Carnival.aspx
Walk to Cure Diabetes – OSC staff members and mascots will be attending the JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes on August 2^nd from 8:30 am – 11:00 am at Lewis and Clark Landing. For more information, visit http://www2.jdrf.org/site/TR?fr_id=3941&pg=entry
Zane’s Wish – Omaha Storm Chasers staff will help grant a wish by decorating a playhouse with Omaha Storm Chasers merchandise.

Community Involvement Inside of the Game

Tuesday, July 29 – Memphis Redbirds vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – AIRE Nebraska joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about AIRE Nebraska visit www.airenebraska.org
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Wednesday, July 30 – Memphis Redbirds vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Ralston Community Night – Members of the Ralston community are invited to join the Omaha Storm Chasers for their community night featuring 1 cent wiener Wednesday. Tickets are available at group discounted rates. For information on tickets, contact Alex Beck at 402-738-5112.
Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Community 360 joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about Community 360 visit http://www.community-360.org/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Thursday, July 31 – Memphis Redbirds vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Weeping Water Community Night – Members of the Weeping Water community are invited to join the Omaha Storm Chasers for their community night featuring Thirsty Thursday. Tickets are available at group discounted rates. For information on tickets, contact Danielle Jelensperger at 402-738-2181.
Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Muscular Dystrophy Association joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about MDA visit http://mda.org/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Friday, August 1 – Memphis Redbirds vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands visit http://www.dsamidlands.org/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Saturday, August 2 – Iowa Cubs vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Autism Action Partnership Jersey Auction – The Omaha Storm Chasers will be hosting a jersey auction benefitting Autism Action Partnership on Autism Awareness night. Fans will be able to bid on jerseys from all Omaha Storm Chasers players and receive the jersey post-game.
Fremont Community Night – Members of the Fremont community are invited to join the Omaha Storm Chasers for their community night. Tickets are available at group discounted rates. For information on tickets, contact Danny Dunbar at 402-738-5132.
Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Autism Action Partnership joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about Autism Action Partnership visit http://www.autismaction.org/contact/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Sunday, August 3 – Iowa Cubs vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 5:05pm

Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Omaha Public Library joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about Omaha Public Library visit http://www.omahapubliclibrary.org/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Monday, August 4 – Iowa Cubs vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 7:05pm

Omaha North HS Presentation – Coach Eric Janecek and 7 members of his Omaha North High School varsity baseball team that partnered with the Omaha Storm Chasers and CVS for the Chasers FUNdamentals program will come to enjoy the game and take place in a pregame recognition.
Gretna Community Night – Members of the Gretna community are invited to join the Omaha Storm Chasers for their community night featuring a Player Puzzle and Picture Giveaway to the first 1500 fans. Tickets are available at group discounted rates. For information on tickets, contact Andrew Madden at 402-738-5135.
Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – Sophisticated Hearts of Omaha joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about Sophisticated Hearts of Omaha visit http://www.sophisticatedheartsofomaha.com
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

Tuesday, August 5 – Iowa Cubs vs. Omaha Storm Chasers, 12:05pm

Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night – EducationQuest Foundation joins the Omaha Storm Chasers and fans as the Live Wise Coalition Community Organization of the Night. To learn more about EducationQuest Foundation visit http://www.educationquest.org/
Huber Chevrolet and McDonald’s Hurl the Pearl – For $2 fans have the chance to win prizes from McDonald’s and the Omaha Storm Chasers. All proceeds benefit the Ronald McDonald House. To learn more about the Ronald McDonald House visit https://www.rmhcomaha.org

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Omaha Storm Chasers. Click here to view the original story.

Gwinnett Braves Announce January and February Grant Recipients

March 13, 2014

“I Have a Dream” themed grant goes to Lekotek, “Hearth Month” themed grant awarded to Camp Twin Lakes

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA – The Gwinnett Braves have announced the recipients of their $1,000 grants for the months of January and February. Lekotek of Georgia has been awarded January’s “I Have a Dream” themed grant, aimed at assisting an organization that grants wishes, dreams and opportunities for the youth, elderly, injured or sick. Camp Twin Lakes will receive February’s “Heart Month” themed grant, intended to benefit an organization that promotes awareness for heart-related diseases and illnesses.

Lekotek of Georgia, founded in 1983, has made a difference for more than 5,500 families from metro Atlanta, rural Georgia and beyond. Lekotek’s goal is to facilitate the inclusion of children with disabilities into their families, schools and communities by providing accessible play, adapted toys, technology, information and resources.

Last year, 626 children with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, hearing and/or vision loss, spina bifida, mitochondrial disorders and genetic conditions benefited from the Lekotek’s vision of providing a world where children with disabilities were included and empowered through play.

The grant awarded by the Gwinnett Braves will fund the purchase of adapted toys, iPads and other electronic items to help children with disabilities reach their potential.

“This grant will make it possible for Lekotek to expand services at both our satellites in Duluth and Gainesville,” said Lekotek Director Helene Prokesch. “We appreciate the generous support of the Gwinnett Braves. We thank the Gwinnett Braves for promoting our mission of inclusion, where everyone is a player.”

While the Gwinnett Braves and Lekotek have formed a new partnership through the January grant, the team’s support of Camp Twin Lakes is continued with the February grant. The G-Braves and their parent club, the Atlanta Braves, have had a strong relationship with the camp for years.

For over 20 years, Camp Twin Lakes has provided life-changing camp experiences to thousands of Georgia’s children with serious illnesses, disabilities and other life challenges. CTL collaborates with nearly 60 nonprofit organizations, each serving a different population, to create customized programs for campers. Annually, more than 9,000 campers are served through year-round, medically-supported camp programming. CTL currently partners with three organizations that serve kids and teens who have heart defects, heart disorders or have received a heart transplant.

Every camp program incorporates activities that promote healthy habits such as biking, swimming, zip-line courses, rock climbing, and nutrition-based programming such as trying fresh vegetables picked from CTL’s Sustainable Teaching Farm. Biking along the paved trails throughout camp remains a Camp Twin Lakes favorite.

With the grant awarded by the Gwinnett Braves, Camp Twin Lakes will purchase new BMX bikes for campers to use on the trails.

“Our hope is to keep our campers excited about biking because it’s a fantastic exercise activity that is readily available to most on a year-round basis and not just during their time at camp,” said Eric Robbins, Executive Director of Camp Twin Lakes. “At our campsites, we have trails where campers can learn how to ride for the first time or can advance their biking skills. The addition of new BMX bikes will allow more campers to enjoy riding around camp. We are so grateful to the Gwinnett Braves for awarding us this grant to help us expand our biking program.”

About Lekotek: Lekotek of Georgia is a unique nonprofit, helping all children learn through play. Imagine you’re a child who wants to turn on a battery-operated toy or email a friend and you can’t because your hands are fisted. Or imagine you are a child who can’t speak but has lots to say. With adapted toys, computers and iPads, Lekotek makes it possible for every child to experience success, communicate and learn along the way. The word “Lekotek” comes from the Swedish work “lek,” meaning play, and the Greek suffix “tek” meaning library. Loosely translated, Lekotek means play library, but to the hundreds of families they help, it is much more. Lekotek is a safe haven from medical appointments and therapies. It’s a place where parents find resources and support while children have fun and learn. For more information about the program and how you can contribute, please contact Helene Prokesch at helene@lekotekga.org.

About Camp Twin Lakes: Camp Twin Lakes is a nonprofit organization that provides year-round recreational, therapeutic and education camp programs for children and young adults facing serious illnesses, disabilities, and other life challenges. With its network of Camp Partners, Camp Twin Lakes provides life-changing experiences at its medically-supportive, state-of-the-art accessible camps located in Rutledge, GA; Winder, GA; Warm Springs, GA; children’s hospitals; and other locations throughout the state. For more information about Camp Twin Lakes and how you can contribute, please email contact@camptwinlakes.org.

For more information on the Gwinnett Braves Grant Program, including details on how your organization can apply, call Community Relations Manager Shay Marlowe at 678-277-0346 or email shay.marlowe@braves.com.

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COUNTDOWN TO THE 2014 HOME OPENER (Friday, April 11, 7:05 PM vs. Durham): 29 Days

The Gwinnett Braves are the Triple-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves. Follow the G-Braves at gwinnettbraves.com, facebook.com/GwinnettBraves1 and twitter.com/GwinnettBraves. Tickets for all 2014 home games are on sale now by calling the Coolray Field Ticket Office at 678-277-0340 or visiting gwinnettbraves.com.

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

Gwinnett Braves Award December Grant to Parkwood Farms Therapy Center

January 22, 2014

“Season of Giving” themed grant will help fund therapeutic horseback riding program for disabled youth

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA – The Gwinnett Braves have awarded their $1,000 grant for the month of December to Parkwood Farms Therapy Center, Inc. of Snellville, GA. The “Season of Giving” themed grant is designed to assist organizations that benefit youth, education or sports programming.

Parkwood Farms Therapy Center, Inc. is a multi-discipline therapy center that offers non-traditional therapies for children with a variety of disabilities, including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome and intellectual disability. One of the key non-traditional therapies is therapeutic and recreational horseback riding lessons provided through the Parkwood Farms Equestrian Program. The Parkwood Farms grounds include nine acres of riding space, a handicap accessible arena, a large outdoor arena and a wooded sensory trail.

Parkwood Farms is also the training facility for the Gwinnett County Special Olympics Equestrian Team. The center hosts year-round equestrian and athletic training giving the riders opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of friendship with other Special Olympians.

The grant awarded to Parkwood Farms will be applied to the purchase of new equipment for the Equestrian Program, including new helmets, saddle blankets, saddles and other riding gear. This new equipment will help keep therapy riders safe and comfortable for years to come.

“The grant from the Gwinnett Braves has allowed us to purchase new equipment for the horses and to expand the riders’ lending closet,” said Dr. Marilyn Peterson, Director of Parkwood Farms Therapy Center, Inc. “The riding outfits offer our athletes a way to take pride in their appearance and make a respectable presentation of their athletic abilities. The farm maintains the lending closet so the riders can borrow what they need and no one is excluded because they can’t afford the uniform.”

About Parkwood Farms Therapy Center, Inc.: Based in Snellville, GA and opened in May 2002, the Parkwood Farms Therapy Center is dedicated to enriching the lives of physically, emotionally and mentally challenged children and adults by offering a spectrum of therapeutic services in one safe and loving environment. To find out how you can donate your time or money to Parkwood Farms, call 678-344-6821 or visit www.parkwoodfarms.org.

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

Fifth Third Field to Host MVDSA Buddy Walk

September 4, 2013

11th Annual Event Takes Place on Saturday, September 7th

Dayton, Ohio – Fifth Third Field will host the 11th Annual Miami Valley Down Syndrome Association Buddy Walk on Saturday, September 7th from 9 a.m. – 12 noon. The Buddy Walk, which raises awareness and promotes inclusion for individuals with Down Syndrome, will take place at Fifth Third Field for the second-consecutive year. Registration is open to the public and costs $10 for anyone aged nine or older, with every dollar benefitting the MVDSA.

Fifth Third Field will open its gates for day-of registration starting at 8:30 a.m. on September 7th, but pre-registration is available at http://mvdsa.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.event&eventID=500. Donations will also be accepted online or at the registration table.

Activities around the ballpark begin at 9 a.m. The Entertainment Fun Zone will be open with face painters and games. Dragons mascots Heater and Gem will roam the concourse and take pictures with those in attendance. The one-mile walk around Fifth Third Field begins at 10 a.m., with the post-walk fun continuing until noon when raffle prize winners will be announced.

ABOUT THE MVDSA

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