Family Relief/Resources

Keurig and Lake Monsters Brew Up Local Partnership To Bring 350 Kids To Games

September 30, 2014

Keurig Green Mountain, Inc. and the Vermont Lake Monsters raised over $1,700 this summer at historic Centennial Field to support the New York-Penn League team’s Share The Experience Program.

As part of the Lake Monsters’ nightly sports memorabilia auctions, Keurig Green Mountain, Inc. generously donated one Keurig brewing system for each night’s auction. All of the proceeds from the donation and auctioned brewing systems will go to benefit the Lake Monsters’ Share The Experience Program, which turns those funds into tickets for those in the community who cannot afford to come to a Lake Monsters game and enjoy the family fun environment.

“We’re so pleased that we can support the Lake Monster’s Share The Experience Program to provide local nonprofits and youth groups access to the ballgames,” Sandy Yusen, Keurig’s Director of Community Relations/Corporate Communications said.

The $1,700 that was raised this past summer will allow nearly 350 kids from youth groups and non-profits that lack the resources to attend a Lake Monsters game next season and share in the enjoyable experience at Centennial Field.

“We are extremely excited to have team up with Keurig Green Mountain on this venture,” said Nate Cloutier, General Manager of the Vermont Lake Monsters. “Their generous donations were not only a fun addition to the auction that the fans loved to bid on, but the proceeds will be instrumental in helping to share the family fun atmosphere with as many people in the community that we possibly can.”

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Vermont Lake Monsters. Click here to view the original story.

C’s Support Raise-A-Reader

September 26, 2014

The Canadians Front Office staff set the alarm clock to ‘early’ this past week to wake up and hit the streets of downtown Vancouver in support of the Vancouver Sun’s annual Raise-A-Reader program supporting Children’s literacy.

“This is a program that helps countless families from all across Canada and it is one of the events that we very much enjoy supporting,” states Canadians Community Relations Director Jeff Holloway.

“The Vancouver Sun is a publication that supports us on a number of levels well beyond covering the outcome of our games. Our working relationship, combined with the support this charity provides to families makes this a ‘can’t miss event’ for our organization”.

Once a year, the Canadians join a number of other teams and supporters on the streets of Vancouver selling Vancouver Sun newspapers by donation to those heading into work. This program has raised millions in support of children’s literacy and once again, despite soggy conditions, was once again a great success.

The Vancouver Canadians wish to thank Rose Isla and her staff at the Vancouver Sun for their support and efforts regarding the Raise-A-Reader program. Congratulations!

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

Kernels season-long charity partners raise over $35,000

September 23, 2014

The Cedar Rapids Kernels partnered with three local companies during the 2014 season to raise over $35,000 for local charities through three different season-long promotions.

For the fifth consecutive season, The Transamerica Foundation has sponsored K’s for Kids, where for every strikeout (or K) recorded by Kernels pitchers this season (home and away, plus playoff games) Transamerica donated $25 to Kids First Law Center for Childr en of Divorce. This season, Kernel pitchers struck out 1,188 batters for a grand total of $29,700 for Kids First. This is the fifth consecutive season that Transamerica has sponsored the K’s for Kids promotion and the highest pledge total to date.

“At Transamerica, we believe in supporting the communities in which we work and live. Since 1994, the Aegon Transamerica Foundation, through a combination of financial grants and the volunteer commitment of our employees, has supported a wide variety of non-profit organizations focused on the education, health and the well-being of community members” said Terrie Rethamel, VP of Specialized Operations with Transamerica. “Our $25 donation for every strikeout pitched by the Cedar Rapids Kernels supports the good work of the Kids First Law Center as they help children and their families through difficult circumstances. We appreciate all that they do to assist families, and consequently, our entire community.”

CarePro Health Services sponsored Plating for Plates, where for every run scored by the Kernels (home and away plus playoffs) CarePro donated $5 to Horizons Meals On Wheels, a program that delivers hot, nutritious meals to local homebound citizens. This season, the Kernels scored 643 runs and that means that CarePro Health Services donated $3,215 or 643 plates of food, to Meals on Wheels. This is the seventh consecutive season that CarePro Health Services has sponsored Plating for Plates.

“It has been a privilege for CarePro Health Services to support the Horizons Meals on Wheels program over the past seven Kernels seasons” said Chris Nichols, Marketing Director at CarePro Health Services. “The Plating for Plates program has been a fun way to be able to support the community and has provided thousands of meals to area community members.”

For the fourth consecutive season, Millhiser Smith Agency, Inc. and West Bend Insurance have partnered to make a donation to Junior Achievement for every home run the Kernels hit at Perfect Game Field this season. In 2014, the Kernels hit 42 home runs and Millhiser Smith and West Bend Insurance donated $2,500 to Junior Achievement.

“One of our fundamental philosophies at Millhiser Smith is to reciprocate the support we receive from Cedar Rapids and surrounding communities – this is why we chose to support Junior Achievement” said Jessica Rhatigan, Risk Consultant with Millhiser Smith Agency, Inc.. “Their focus is on educating our children in preparation for a successful future and we’ve been honored to contribute to their efforts.”

These three companies combined to raise $35,415 for local non-profits in our community this season. The Kernels would like to thank The Transamerica Foundation, CarePro Health Services, Millhiser Smith Agency, Inc. and West Bend Insurance for their continued support of these local charity programs.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Cedar Rapids Kernels. Click here to view the original story.

Trick or Treat at Eastwood Field Set for October 22

September 22, 2014

The Scrappers and Talmer Bank and Trust present the sixteenth annual “Trick or Treat” at Eastwood Field, with media partners 21 WFMJ, WBCB, and Hot 101. The event will take place Wednesday, October 22^nd from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. “Trick or Treat” at Eastwood Field is a fun and safe way to celebrate Halloween for children age 12 and under. Ticket quantities are limited and are available on a first come first served basis. Children and adults will require a ticket. Tickets are just $1 each and are available starting Monday, September 29th at the Scrappers Team Office located at Eastwood Field. In addition, anyone that donates canned goods at the “Trick or Treat” event for Project Feed Our Valley will receive a free general admission Scrappers ticket valid during the 2015 season.

The Scrappers are looking for area businesses to participate in this year’s “Trick or Treat” event. Businesses will receive table space on the Eastwood Field concourse. This is a community event and a great way to promote your business to the public. Early reservations are encouraged as space is limited. Please contact Annie Stoltenberg for complete details by calling 330-505-0000 or emailing astoltenberg@mvscrappers.com.

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

HR for Heroes Raises $34,000 In 2014

September 17, 2014

OceanFirst Foundation has now donated over $160,000 to military-based non-profit organizations through the program

OceanFirst Foundation donated $34,000 to a group of military-based non-profit organizations based on each BlueClaws home run at FirstEnergy Park as part of the 2014 Home Runs for Heroes program.

Checks were preseneted in a ceremony on the field at FirstEnergy Park on Monday.

In six years, the program has now raised $164,000 in six seasons.

Each organization was paired up with one specific inning. Each the BlueClaws hit a home run at FirstEnergy Park, OceanFirst Foundation donated $1,000 to the corresponding organization. Fundraising totals are listed below.

Organization	Inning	Home Runs	Total
Army Emergency Relief	First	4	$4,000
Chariot Riders and NJ State Family Readiness Council	Second	6	$6,000
ARMS	Third	1	$1,000
Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund	Fourth	2	$2,000
American Red Cross	Fifth	1	$1,000
Navy Marine Corp Relief Society	Sixth	5	$5,000
Blue Star Mothers – WELCOME!	Seventh	6	$6,000
Vetwork	Eighth	0	$1,000
Catholic Charities	Ninth/Extra	2	$2,000

In the table above, please note that both Chariot Riders and the NJ State Family Readiness Council received $6,000 for the six home runs the BlueClaws hit in the second inning at home this year.

Dylan Cozens led all BlueClaws with eight home runs at FirstEnergy Park, while three players – Mitch Walding, Andrew Pullin, and Wilmer Oberto – each hit three. Jim Murphy, who hit seven home runs in Lakewood in 2009 and 11 more in 2011, has accounted for $18,000 in donations and is the program’s all-time leader.

For more information on OceanFirst Foundation, click here.

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

Annual Celebrity Golf Tournament

September 12, 2014

The Rome Braves & Floyd County Police Department announce the Sixth Annual Celebrity Shootout Golf Tournament on Friday, November 14, 2014, at beautiful Barnsley Gardens Resort. The course, by Jim Fazio, is one of the most popular courses in the Southeast. The tournament is set in a scramble format with a shotgun start at 11am and will feature current and former Rome and Atlanta Braves greats. A Par three hole will be deemed the Celebrity Shootout hole where a team can invite a celebrity to take a shot. Competing teams have the opportunity to purchase an extra shot at the Par 3 hole for the celebrity to hit a shot off the tee. This annual golf tournament has donated a total of over $50,000 to local and National charities.

The proceeds from this year’s event will benefit Summit Quest Cancer Support Services. Since 2007, Summit Quest has been dedicated to providing support services and meeting the needs of those affected by cancer through various means: Circle at the Summit (a youth focused support group for children ages 6-17 who are facing cancer directly or who have a parent or loved one affected by the disease), Outdoor Adventure Trips, Youth Cycling Programs, and Team Tiger Flight. “All of us at Summit Quest Cancer Support Services are so very thankful to be the beneficiary of this year’s Celebrity Shootout Golf Tournament. The support from this amazing event will allow Summit Quest to continue meeting our mission of providing strength, hope, and service to children & families affected by cancer,” said Founder & Executive Director, William James.

“The Floyd County Police Department is proud to join the Rome Braves in co-sponsoring the event,” says FCPD Chief Bill Shiflett. “We pledge to make this year’s tournament the best to support such a worthy cause and gratefully ask all past and present players to join in on a great day of golf to assist families that have been affected by cancer.” Rome Braves General Manager, Michael Dunn, added, “We are very excited to partner this year with Summit Quest. We hope that through this tournament we can help further their mission of supporting children & their families in Northwest Georgia who have been stricken by cancer.”

Team fees are $450 and include lunch, a goody bag, and raffle tickets. Individual golfers can register for $150 each. Hole sponsorships are available for local businesses and individuals to show their support as well.

Click here to download a registration form now or call 706-378-5100 for more details.

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

Register Now for Braves Miracle Field of Rome

September 9, 2014

Registration for the Braves Miracle field of Rome has begun and will continue until September 26th through Rome-Floyd Parks & Recreation Authority. The registration fee is still $50 per player, however, there are scholarship opportunities for interested families.

A pre-season practice will be October 4th at 12:30pm, 1:30pm, and 2:30pm. Uniforms will be distributed at this time. The season will open on Saturday October 11th with games at 12:30pm, 1:30pm, & 2:30pm. A break will take place on October 18th and play resumes October 25th. Starting October 25th, games will move back to 11am, 12pm, & 1pm for the remainder of the season through November 15th.

For more information contact the Rome Braves at 706-378-5100 or the Rome-Floyd Parks and Recreation Authority.

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

Dragons Host Human Services Fair Sunday

August 23, 2014

The Dayton Dragons will host a Human Services Fair on the plaza outside Fifth Third Field from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 24. The event will help raise awareness about Montgomery County’s Human Services agencies and provide more information about the specific services delivered by the agencies and related non-profits.

Visitors to the Human Services Fair on the plaza (prior to the Dragons game vs. Great Lakes) can browse 30 booths for more information about the work of Children Services; Developmental Disabilities Services; Public Health-Dayton & Montgomery County; and Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) as well as key senior services, the Job Center and selected social services delivered by non-profit agencies.

Fair booths will include volunteers from United Way of the Greater Dayton Area; Sinclair Community College Fast Forward; Alzheimer’s Association; Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Miami Valley; Center for Alcoholism and Drug Addiction Services (CADAS); Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley; Suicide Prevention Center; Clothes That Work; Rebuilding Together; Dakota Center; Stillwater Center; Daybreak; Family Services Association; Homefull; Nova Behavioral Health; Parity, Inc; Places, Inc.; Project C.U.R.E., Inc.; Samaritan Behavioral Health; Senior Resource Connection; and United Rehabilitation Services of Greater Dayton.

Montgomery County voters will vote on a Human Services levy this November 4. Based on recommendations by the Human Services Levy Council, Montgomery County Commissioners placed a renewal of an existing Human Services levy plus an increase of 1 mill on the November 4, 2014 ballot. If voters pass the levy request, the owner of a home valued at $100,000 would pay an additional $3 per month.

“For over 50,000 children, families and seniors in communities across Montgomery County, these services are vital,” said County Commissioner Judy Dodge. “We are thankful for the opportunity presented with the Human Services Fair on August 24 to raise awareness with residents and voters about the critical, effective, life-changing services funded by the levy.”

“Right now, displaced workers are getting the valuable help they need at the Job Center and thousands of children are receiving immunizations, counseling or care because of this critical human services funding,” said Montgomery County Commissioner Debbie Lieberman.

“Every service is reviewed regularly by a hard-working local panel, the Human Services Levy Council, that includes independent business leaders, financial experts, and citizen volunteers,” said County Commission President Dan Foley. “We are committed to providing quality services to the most vulnerable in our community.”

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

Gwinnett Braves Announce July Grant Recipient

August 22, 2014

HOOAH, Inc. receives $1,000 “Red, White and Blue” themed grant

The Gwinnett Braves have announced the recipient of their $1,000 grant for the month of July. HOOAH, Inc. has been awarded July’s “Red, White and Blue” themed grant, aimed at assisting organizations that support military and military families.

HOOAH, Inc. began with a group of friends trying to do something for servicemen and women around the world. On May 18, 2011, the chapter became an official non-profit organization in the state of Minnesota. The organization is not bound to one geographical area, as its outreach is worldwide.

The goal of HOOAH, Inc. is to lend support to deployed special operations servicemen and women. The Georgia chapter of HOOAH will use the grant to fund youth sports scholarships for children who have one or more parents that are currently deployed. The scholarships help those families cover the cost of program fees and uniforms for their youth athletes.

“We are honored that the Gwinnett Braves have selected our organization to be the recipient of this charitable donation,” said Bill Winans, Vice President of the National Board of Directors for HOOAH, Inc. “HOOAH is dedicated to increasing the quality of life of service members and their families through the various services we can provide to them. This donation is designated to provide funds to a youth sports related team whose youth member(s) is currently experiencing or has been affected through the sacrifice of a deployed parent. We thank you for trusting us with the charge of making that appropriation through our affiliation within the military community. The $1,000 grant will go a long way towards making participation a reality, or perhaps by providing first rate sponsorship shirts and ball caps for the chosen team(s).”

About HOOAH, Inc.: The organization has been around for over three years and is based in Elk River, Minnesota. There are five supporting chapters, located in Minnesota, Georgia, Colorado, Kansas and Wisconsin. The vision of the organization is to give volunteers and the public an opportunity to help our servicemen and women with customized support and services.

For more information on the Gwinnett Braves Grant Program, including details on how your organization can apply, call Community Relations Trainee Alison Atkins at 678-277-0313 or email Alison.Atkins@braves.com.

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

Community Contributions Exceed $65,000 in 2014

August 20, 2014

RockHounds Release In-Season Cash Contributions

A Calling to Serve

RockHounds Announce Summer Donations to Local Charities

For more than four decades, the core commitment of the RockHounds franchise has been to provide West Texas families with fun and entertainment throughout the summer and offer a place for the community to gather in fellowship through the game of baseball.

This mission, however, is not restrained by the physical boundaries of Security Bank Ballpark. Rather, the impact of the organization is felt throughout the Permian Basin, as the franchise remains a vanguard of community stewardship in the region.

Since the RockHounds’ Opening Day (April 3), the team has donated more than $65,000 to local charities.

“At its core, our work is not only about baseball; it is about bringing families and friends together in a fun, safe, and entertaining atmosphere,” said RockHounds general manager Monty Hoppel. “Through our efforts in the Permian Basin, our goal is straightforward: we want to make a tangible, positive difference in the lives of our friends and neighbors.”

The Club has established strong partnerships with several prominent groups, such as the Y MCA, Unite d Way, Gifts of Hope, High Sky Children’s Ranch, and Big Brothers Big Sis ters of Midland. Additionally, the team incorporates new organizations into its philanthropy each year.

During the RockHounds’ regular season, the team hosts several annual events that benefit local charities and civic organizations. The highlight of these, for many, is the Summer Concert Series event, which brings a country music star to the ballpark for a live concert; past performances at Security Bank Ballpark have included Dierks Bentley, Eli Young Band, and Brad Paisley.

The chart below outlines the RockHounds’ primary cash contributions this summer; it does not include in-kind and other forms of charitable giving.

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

RockHounds Summer Event Cash Contributions

Event (Charity) – Contribution
Eli Young Concert (YMCA) – $34,000
Victory Run (Gifts of Hope) – $10,000
Golf Tournament (Scott Seator Foundation) – $6,500
Gold Star/Military Appreciation Night (Permian Basin Honor Flight) – $4,200
RockHounds Scholarship Program (Permian Basin Graduating Seniors) – $4,000
Specialty Jersey Auctions (High Sky Children’s Ranch) – $2,000
Jersey Auctions / Dunk Tank (Nino Rodriguez Family) – $1,643
Matt Maher Concert (Permian Basin Mission Center) – $1,050
Miscellaneous Functions (Various) – $3,830

TOTAL ROCKHOUNDS IN-SEASON CASH CONTRIBUTIONS: $67,223

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

GreenJackets to Host Golden Harvest Food Bank Canned Food Drive

August 15, 2014

The Augusta GreenJackets are excited to announce today that they will be partnering with the Golden Harvest Food Bank to host the Golden Harvest Food Bank Canned Food Drive as a part of our game on Friday, August 22, 2014 at Lake Olmstead Stadium.

“Golden Harvest Food Bank is not only an important part of the community but a great organization,” said GreenJackets General Manager Tom Denlinger. “With our commitment to the community we are excited to partner together on this night and have our fans help support the Golden Harvest Food Bank.”

Golden Harvest’s goal is to provide and serve quality food to people in need. Through the help of local community support they are able to serve lunch every day in downtown Augusta at the Master’s Table Soup Kitchen. On August 22^nd, two GreenJackets players will be at the Master’s Table volunteering their time by serving food and speaking with members of the community from 11 – Noon.

“It’s so encouraging to have strong community partners like the GreenJackets who are willing to cultivate our sports culture but also partner with us in taking action in feed the hungry” said Travis McNeal, Executive Director at Golden Harvest Food Bank.

Golden Harvest is doing a ticket fundraiser as part of the night to help members of the CSRA community. Fans that bring canned food items to the game will receive a raffle ticket for “Enter to Win” giveaways. Game time is slated for 7 PM as the GreenJackets face the Lexington Legends. Gates open at 6:00 PM. The first 1,000 fans will receive a Golf Umbrella courtesy of SRP Federal Credit Union. It’s also Golf Night with special themes and promotions. There will also be Launch-A-Ball and post-game kids run the bases.

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

Naturals to Host 2nd Faith & Family Night on Friday, August 22

August 14, 2014

Game will feature a pre-game concert by Chris August and a post-game Fireworks Spectacular

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals along with Sam’s Furniture and media partner KLRC are hosting the second Faith and Family Night event of the 2014 season on Friday, August 22^nd at Arvest Ballpark. Chris August is scheduled to perform a one hour pre-game concert at 6:00 P.M., prior to the Naturals game against the Springfield Cardinals at 7:35 P.M.

Chris August was the GMA Dove Award winner for New Artist of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year in 2011. He also won the award for Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year for “No Far Away” that same year. Chris August’s most recent album, “The Upside of Down”, spent twenty-one weeks on the Christian Albums chart reaching a peak position of number 3 on the list. The album is highlighted by “Center Of It” and “Unashamed Of You” as both songs reached the Top 23 on the Hot Christian Songs.

The stage for the pre-game concert next week will be located on the grass area beyond the concourse in centerfield, located between the Bud Light Bullpen Café and kid’s playground beyond the centerfield batter’s eye. Gates will open at 5:30 P.M. for the concert to begin at approximately 5:50 P.M. and a Post-Game Fireworks Spectacular will conclude the night.

The first Faith & Family Night at Arvest Ballpark on Friday, May 9^th was a sellout. The Naturals had a crowd of 8,035, which was the 8^th largest crowd in franchise history. Tickets are currently available for August 22^nd and range from $8 to $14 for the event.

Tickets can be purchased at the Arvest Ballpark Box Office, online at www.nwanaturals.com, or by calling our toll free ticket hotline at (877) 444-2637. The Naturals will also offer special group rates starting at just $8 for reserved seats for groups of 20 or more that would like to attend Faith & Family Night by Sam’s Furniture. Please give us a call at (479) 927-4900 or email us at Groups@nwanaturals.com for more information. All you need is one ticket to enjoy the concert, game, and fireworks.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League Affiliate of the Kansas City Royals. The Naturals play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark in Springdale, AR. For more information including statistics, ticket options, and more, please visit NWANaturals.com, and follow us on Twitter @NWANaturals and Facebook.com/Naturals.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Northwest Arkansas Naturals. Click here to view the original story.

Generals Take On Childhood Cancer on Friday, August 22

August 14, 2014

Jackson Raises Awareness with Special Night

The Jackson Generals have teamed up with Ellie’s Hats and the Vs Cancer Foundation to take a swing against childhood cancer.

On August 22^nd at 7:05, the Generals will be taking on the Chattanooga Lookouts in the hunt for a playoff spot. But, the battle on the field will be in support of those children who are entrenched in a battle of their own – one against cancer.

The Generals have spent months collecting hundreds hats from teams and individuals across the country. These hats will be donated on the field that night to the charity, “Ellie’s Hats,” who will give them to children receiving cancer treatments. These kids often lose hair from harsh treatments and the hats often become an extension of themselves, almost like a badge of courage.

But, the donation isn’t all that’s going on. Some of the Generals players have volunteered to have their heads shaved that night to help raise money with the Vs. Cancer Foundation. Any individual attending the game will also have the opportunity to shave their heads in support.

The Vs. Cancer Foundation has set up a website here to help the Generals raise even more for the cause. These donations will be split between Ellie’s Hats and a local Jackson cancer treatment center, meaning every penny is used to fight childhood cancer.

Fans are encouraged to bring a new hat to the game to donate to the cause, and if they do they’ll receive free admission.

The Generals have been recognized for their efforts by Minor League Baseball. They have been named one of five finalists for the top charity event/program in all of Minor League Baseball. MiLB gives a number of “Golden Bobblehead Awards” out every season to recognize the best of the best from around the country. This is the first time the Generals have been a finalist in any category.

Jackson Generals GM, Jason Compton said the support for night has been overwhelming. “We’ve had teams from all over the country send in hats. We’ve had individuals sending along hats or making a donation to the Vs. Cancer web page,” Compton said. “It just goes to show how when it comes to a cause like this, we’re all on the same team. The response for this has been nothing short of inspiring. The recognition from MiLB is just icing on the cake. Any added exposure and awareness that comes from our efforts will just get everyone behind these children who are fighting for their lives.”

For more information, or to get your ticket to help end childhood cancer, call 988-5299 or click here. The Jackson Generals are the Double-A Affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. For more information visit jacksongeneralsbaseball.com, like the Generals on Facebook (Facebook.com/jacksongenerals) or follow us on twitter (@jacksongenerals).

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

Crawdads Serve at Hickory Soup Kitchen

August 14, 2014

Dads players helped prepare and serve food over two days

The Hickory Crawdads recently lent a helping hand at the Hickory Soup Kitchen, with the ‘Dads players helping to clean, prepare, and serve food on August 7^th & 8^th.

Six players and one front office member volunteered over four separate shifts during the two-day span. The Crawdads helped out with everything from peeling potatoes and bagging groceries, to serving food and interacting with the guests.

“We are always happy to help out in the community when we get a chance,” said Crawdads General Manager Mark Seaman. “It was a good opportunity for the players to give back and see first hand some of the challenges that our fellow citizens face on a daily basis.”

The Hickory Soup Kitchen began in 1983 with six downtown churches before moving to its current location in 1990. HSK serves an average of 152 people per day and more than 70,000 people every year. The kitchen is open weekdays from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm.

For more information regarding the Hickory Soup Kitchen, contact Executive Director Austin Pearce at (828) 327-4828 or email hickorysoup@embarqmail.com.

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

Silver Hawks to Collect 3,000 lbs. of Food for St. Vincent de Paul

August 13, 2014

August 15^th the annual Faith and Family Night returns to Four Winds Field. St. Vincent de Paul has partnered with your South Bend Silver Hawks to host the annual event. Through this partnership, your Silver Hawks and St. Vincent de Paul hope to bring the community together for a night of faith and fellowship.

Arrive early for a pregame concert featuring Cody Collier. The performance will begin at 6:30 p.m. Also taking place is a canned food drive to help stock the pantries of St. Vincent de Paul. Bring non-perishable food items, or a $5 donation, to the game that evening and receive two (2) complimentary tickets for August 18th, 19th or 20th. Guests who bring the most donations in weight will have a chance to win an outdoor suite to use during a game in the 2015 Silver Hawks season. The goal is to collect 3,000 lbs. of food during the food drive.

“The Silver Hawks are once again excited to be partnering with St. Vincent de Paul this year on our Faith and Family Night. We have built a great partnership over the last couple of seasons but what excites me the most is the canned food drive and the opportunity we have to help those around Michiana that are in need. We have set a goal to collect at least 3,000 lbs. of food on Friday night and it is my hope that we shatter that mark. We live in one of the greatest communities with some of the most generous baseball fans that I have ever met. So I am asking everyone to please bring at least one item on Friday night to donate and let’s help fill St. Vincent de Paul’s food pantry.” states Joe Hart, Silver Hawks’ Team President.

To purchase tickets to the Friday, August 15^th Silver Hawks’ game contact the Box Office at 574-235-9988, stop by in person, or purchase tickets online at www.SilverHawks.com . The Four Winds Field Box Office is open Monday through Friday 10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The South Bend Silver Hawks are a Class A minor league team affiliated with the Arizona Diamondbacks. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose sole shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, IL.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the South Bend Silver Hawks. Click here to view the original story.