Family Relief/Resources

Orem Owlz Efforts Benefit ‘Locks of Love’

May 16, 2014

June 21^st marks a great day for baseball and haircuts at the Home of the Owlz. If you are wondering if Owlz really need haircuts, of course they do! We are teaming up with Locks of Love and Aveda Institute of Provo for the second home game of the season. The students at Aveda will be providing free haircuts for all eligible donors. Haircuts will be offered starting at 6:30 PM and will run through the end of the 4^th inning. Owlz front office members will be supporting the cause to show community rally for the event. General Manager, Justo Vazquez, will be the first donor as he is attempting to grow his hair out to the appropriate length. “We are excited to be a part of this, as this is our first big event for Locks of Love,” says Vazquez. “I personally can’t wait to donate and help a child in need.” Since the idea first came to fruition, Vazquez has made it a goal to have his hair ready by June in order to show his support.

This event will benefit Locks of Love, a public non-profit organization that provides vacuum fitted hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. They meet a unique need for children by using donated human hair to create the highest quality hair prosthetics. Most of the children helped by Locks of Love have lost their hair due to a medical condition called alopecia areata, which has no known cause or cure. Others have suffered severe burns or injuries or endured radiation treatment to the brain stem or other dermatological conditions that result in permanent hair loss. The vacuum fit is designed for children who have experienced a total loss of scalp hair and does not require the use of tape or glue. The prostheses they provide help to restore self-esteem and confidence, enabling these children to face the world and their peers.

The organization, which began operation in 1998, provides the prostheses to children under age 21. These hairpieces require between 6-10 ponytails and take approximately 4-6 months to manufacture. Thousands of bundles of donated hair arrive as a result of the national publicity that Locks of Love receives in newspapers, magazines, and television programs. It is estimated that children comprise over 80 percent of the donors, making this a charity where children have an opportunity to help children.

Donate hair is evaluated for its usefulness according to the following guidelines:

It must be at least 10″, clean and dry
It must be bundled in a ponytail or braid
Bleached hair cannot be used
Hair that has been dyed or permed can be used

Monetary donations to Locks of Love are tax deductible.

The Owlz will also be promoting Breast Cancer Awareness with Swing for Life of Utah. We are doubling our efforts for this special evening and inviting everyone to “Pink Out the Park”! This is a great opportunity to support two causes and help the Owlz continue to be a force for good in our community. “Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death (death from any type of cancer) among women ages 20 to 59,” according to the Susan G. Komen Foundation website. Help the Owlz make this evening one to honor those special people in our lives and community who have fought this disease.

For more information about Locks of Love donations or how to honor a survivor or loved one, please call the Owlz front office at (801) 377-2255 or email Assistant General Manager Jillian Dingee at jillian@oremowlz.com and Community Relations Director Kristen Johnson at kristen@oremowlz.com.

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

Home Runs, Strikeouts Benefit Local Charities

May 15, 2014

BlueClaws partners OceanFirst Bank, Stop & Shop donate to local organizations through two initiatives

The BlueClaws have partnered with OceanFirst Foundation and Stop & Shop to raise money for local organizations when a BlueClaws batter hits a home run or when a BlueClaws pitcher strikes out an opposing hitter at FirstEnergy Park this summer.

OceanFirst Foundation’s Home Runs for Heroes
The BlueClaws and OceanFirst Foundation have again partnered on Home Runs for Heroes, a program that raises money for local military-based non-profit organizations. Each inning of the game is tied in with a local military-based organization. Each time the BlueClaws hit a home run in Lakewood, OceanFirst Foundation makes a donation of $1,000 to that organization. For a rundown of charities, please click here.

The program is now in its sixth season and has raised over $120,000 so far. For more on OceanFirst Foundation, click here.

Stop & Shop’s Strike Out Hunger
The BlueClaws and Stop & Shop have again partnered on the Strike Out Hunger campaign, through which Stop & Shop makes a donation to the Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties for every BlueClaws strikeout by a pitcher in Lakewood this year. Last year, the program raised over $10,000 for the Food Bank, which supports over 260 pantries and soup kitchens at the Jersey Shore.

Further, this year, as part of their 100th anniversary celebration, Stop & Shop will give out a $100 gift card to one lucky fan each time the BlueClaws reach a 100-strikeout milestone this year (100th, 200th, etc strikeout of the year).

For a program rundown, click here.

The BlueClaws are the Jersey Shore’s top stop for affordable, family entertainment. They have led the South Atlantic League and New Jersey in attendance in all 13 years of existence. For tickets to any BlueClaws home game, call 732-901-7000 option 2 or click here.

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

Dragons and Vectren Present Community All-Stars

May 8, 2014

BOGG to be honored at Fifth Third Field on May 9

Vectren Corporation and the Dayton Dragons will host Jason Barton and Jason Johnston during the unique “Community All-Stars” program on Friday, May 9, at 7 p.m. when the Dayton Dragons take on the Fort Wayne Tincaps 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 35 “All-Stars”-anyone from firefighters to first responders, non-profit organizations to Good Samaritans-and their families with a VIP treatment at a Dragons game in recognition of their service.

Jason and Jason’s Story

Jason Barton and Jason Johnston met several years ago at their church leading a small group of high school students together and became fast friends. When searching for a place in Miamisburg to serve the community with their small group, they discovered a lot of need and not enough being done to meet the need. The two friends decided to do something about it.

“It was just something that was on my heart,” said Barton. “Anytime we go out with friends or family, it is always over a meal. And there are a lot of hungry people in our community. The best way to get out and reach them is to feed them.”

They both left their full time jobs and founded BOGG (Because of God’s Grace) Ministries in 2010, feeding about four families a week. Barton and Johnston, working unpaid for the first 18 months of BOGG, would go to each family’s house, have dinner, and provide them with groceries. The ministry rapidly grew and within seven months, BOGG was reaching 35 families. The next step for BOGG was mobile meals

Mobile meals is a system BOGG Ministries uses to reach the eight communities they now serve. They visit each area once a month with their mobile food pantry, fire up a grill, have a meal with the families, and provide groceries for one to two weeks.

“In 2013, we provided just under 250,000 meals,” Johnston explained. “Currently we are providing food for 1,500-1,800 people a month. It’s not just about the food though. Relationships are key. It is about being compassionate with our neighbors.”

For giving back selflessly to the community they are a part of, Barton and Johnston have been selected as Dragons Community All-Stars. The Dragons Community All-Stars Program honors individuals and organizations who have gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the Miami Valley.

The Dragons Community All-Stars Program is made possible by the generous support of Vectren. For more information on the program or to read about the All-Stars we have honored in 2014, visit daytondragons.com. To learn more about BOGG Ministries and how you can help, visit www.thebogg.org.

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

4th Annual Cutters 5K Run to Benefit CDC

May 6, 2014

The Williamsport Crosscutters, in partnership with the Children’s Development Center, will be holding the 4^th Annual Cutters 5K on Saturday, June 28^th at Susquehanna Bank Park at Historic Bowman Field.

The race, through Williamsport’s West End, begins at 9am with registration open at 8am. The course has runners starting outside the ballpark entrance with the final sprint inside the stadium finishing at home plate. Both runners and walkers are encouraged to take part in the event.

All proceeds from the event benefit the Children’s Development Center of Williamsport. Since 1923, the CDC has been providing services to children with special needs from birth to 21 years of age. Last year’s event attracted over 200 participants while raising over $10,000 for the CDC.

“Since the affiliation between Hope Enterprises and the Children’s Development Center was finalized, both organizations have been working together to enhance the service options for children and their families in our area. Having the support of our community with events such as the Cutters 5K, allows us to be better prepared to meet the needs of those to be served” stated Hope Enterprises President, Jim Campbell.

Prizes will be awarded for 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd place in seven male and female age categories. In addition to the prize awards, the top male and female runners will throw out ceremonial first pitches at the Williamsport Crosscutters game that evening. Prizes will also be awarded to the top three male and female walkers.

“We are proud to partner with the CDC again on this event. It just keeps growing every year”, said Cutters Vice-President of Marketing Gabe Sinicropi.

Registration is $15 in advance and $20 on race day. All participants receive a race t-shirt (while supplies last), and a ticket to the June 29th Crosscutters vs. Mahoning Valley Scrappers game at 7:05pm. Registration forms and more information are available online at crosscutters.com, at the Crosscutters offices at Bowman Field or the CDC offices located at 625 W. Edwin St. Sponsorships of the event are also still available.

Opening Night 2014, presented by Susquehanna Bank and KISS 102-7, is slated for Friday, June 13 as the Crosscutters host the rival State College Spikes. Season Tickets and Bonus Book mini-plans are now available at the ballpark, online at www.crosscutters.com or by phone at (570) 326-3389.

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

Crawdads to Host Taste of Hickory

May 4, 2014

‘Dads partner with Hickory Elks for May 18th event

Are you a self-professed foodie? Do you enjoy tasting new and local beers and wines? What if you could come to one event and taste all the food, wine and beer from area restaurants, breweries and wineries, and support community outreach programs and children’s charities at the same time?

Welcome to the Taste of Hickory! Taste. Well Crafted. The Hickory Elks Lodge is excited to announce their new partnership with the Hickory Crawdads offering the much needed space to accommodate the growth of this year’s Taste of Hickory while presenting the beautifully renovated L.P. Frans Stadium. The Hickory area is alive with talented chefs, bakers, brew masters, wine makers, and more, and the Hickory Elks in partnership with the Hickory Crawdads are thrilled to host the 3^rd Annual Taste of Hickory on Sunday, May 18^th.

The Taste of Hickory is sponsored this year by James Oxygen & Supply Company, Ashley’s Heating & Air, Holbrook Landscaping, Republic Services, Colin Brady, Community One Bank, Prime Benefits Insurance, United Beverage, Hickory Convention & Visitors Bureau, and City of Hickory’s “Life. Well Crafted.” brand. The event will showcase locally owned restaurants, Carolina breweries and wineries, and other local vendors. Stroll through the stadium tasting and sipping while enjoying familiar tunes by Hickory’s own “America’s Got Talent” star Ulysses Long.

There will be competition for the “Best of Hickory” in several categories with raffles and door prizes during the event. Proceeds from the event will go to the many community outreach programs that the Elks sponsor including Veterans Programs, Youth Activities and Scholarships, Catawba Valley Backpack Program, the Helping Hands Program, and the many Children’s Charities supported by the Lady Elks.

The event will be held at the Hickory Crawdads Stadium, Clement Blvd, on Sunday May 18, 2014 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The event will be indoors and outdoors. Tickets are limited to 500 and will be available for sale on Friday April 4th. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. No one under 21 will be admitted and proper ID must be presented. For more information, to sponsor the event, to become a vendor, and to purchase tickets visit the Taste of Hickory Facebook page and call The Hickory Elks Lodge at (828) 322-2527.

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

Z’s hosting peanut allergy-friendly game

April 28, 2014

Stadium will not have peanuts for May 6th game against Iowa

In an effort to accommodate baseball fans whose peanut allergies prevent them from attending games, the New Orleans Zephyrs are hosting a peanut-free night on Tuesday, May 6.

Though the song says “Buy me some peanuts and Cracker Jack,” Zephyr Field will be peanut-free when the Z’s open a four-game series against the Iowa Cubs, sponsored by AllerGease. Fans with peanut allergies are often prevented from attending games due to high risk of exposure in stadiums.

“Many teams across the country have made an effort to reach out to baseball fans with peanut allergies,” said Brandon Puls, Zephyrs Promotions Director. “The Zephyrs are proud to welcome a group of fans who otherwise would not be able to see a game in person and allow them to experience a carefree night at the ballpark.”

According to Food Allergy Research & Education, roughly 3.3 million Americans suffer from peanut allergies. Studies have shown the number of children living with peanut allergies has tripled since 1997.

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact the Zephyrs at (504) 734-5155.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Orleans Zephyrs. Click here to view the original story.

2014 RockHounds Scholarship Recipients

April 23, 2014

2014 Scholarship Recipients

Austen Wade (Midland High School)
Blake Loyd (Robert E. Lee High School)
Jordan Williams (Robert E. Lee High School)
Audrey Adkins (Permian High School)

SCHOLARSHIP CRITERIA

The Midland RockHounds/Sockers FC will be awarding four $1,000 scholarships to graduating seniors for the 2014 Fall College Semester. Two of the scholarships are reserved for students entering the field of Sport Management or involved in sports, and the other two will be for any field of higher education.

The scholarships will be available only to students who attend Midland or Odessa public and private high schools. This will be offered to any student attending a four-year college, junior college, vocational, technical, or health-related college. The four applications that best suit our prospectus will be granted the scholarship starting with the 2014 Fall Semester at any Texas or out-of-state college. All recipients will be honored on the field during a RockHounds or Sockers game of their choosing.

This is a one-year, non-renewable scholarship funded through the West Texas Sports Banquet.

Extra copies for those interested in applying will also be available in our Security Bank Ball Park Office and on the link above.

Check back for the 2015 application.

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

Smokies & Remote Area Medical Join Forces

April 23, 2014

RAM Announced As Smokies’ “Charity Of Choice” For 2014 Season

The Tennessee Smokies announced today the Remote Area Medical® (RAM®) as the team’s “charity of choice” for the 2014 season. Proceeds from jersey auctions and additional activities at Smokies games this year will benefit the non-profit organization financially and provide a platform for RAM® to make its mission better known in the community.

Remote Area Medicial® was founded in 1985 by Stan Brock, who developed the idea for the organization after a medical ordeal in South America while being isolated from urgent care. After returning, it was Brock’s mission to establish the non-profit in order to help bring medical aid to those living in the isolated and underserved communities in the U.S. and abroad.

“We could not be more supportive of Remote Area Medical® and Stan Brock’s cause,” said Smokies President Doug Kirchhofer. “With this partnership we are focusing our efforts to help them achieve their vision.”

Brock starred on the popular television show Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom, with the program winning four Emmy Awards, and went on to create, direct and star in Stan Brock’s Expedition Danger for eight years. He has written three books on his experiences, scribed articles for Reader’s Digest and Outdoor Life, and featured in TIME Magazine.

“We are honored to team up with The Smokies to help restore hope and improve lives for underserved communities in our region,” said Brock. “The Smokies really care about their fans and want to take active steps to help children and their families in need of basic medical care.”

“Our partnership with the Smokies means more people can be helped who cannot afford healthcare and we thank them for their compassion for our community, state and region,” Brock continued. “We look forward to sharing life with the Smokies on this journey of a shared mission, and together we can make a real impact and footprint in our communities that will literally change the lives of thousands of people.”

According to the organization’s website, over 80,000 volunteers and healthcare professionals have helped deliver more than $75 million dollars of free quality medical services since RAM®’s founding in 1985.

Along with the focus on Remote Area Medical®, the Smokies will continue to be involved with other non-profit organizations and causes in the East Tennessee Community.

For more information on Remote Area Medical®, or to learn how to volunteer or donate to the organization, whose headquarters are located in Rockford, Tennessee, please visit them on the web at www.ramusa.org, or contact them by phone at (865) 579-1530.

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

Join Fifth Third Bank And The Dragons As We Strike Out Hunger

April 23, 2014

Fifth Third Bank and the Dayton Dragons have partnered with the The Foodbank, Inc. in efforts to assist families fighting hunger in the Miami Valley. From April 28-May 1, from 5:30-7:00 p.m. on the plaza at Fifth Third Field, donations of canned goods and non-perishable food items will be accepted. Items will be donated to The Foodbank, Inc. to provide meals for those in need.

“Each Fifth Third Day, May 3rd, Fifth Third and our employees celebrate our commitment to our communities and to fighting hunger,” stated Doug Compton, Fifth Third Bank’s Dayton City Executive. “Through volunteerism and donations, we’re proud to partner with the Dayton Dragons and their fans in support of The Foodbank, Inc. and efforts to Strike Out Hunger.”

Michelle Riley, CEO of The Foodbank, expressed the need for the donations. “Throughout our tri-county region, our member hunger relief charities serve about 16,000 meals every day to children, families and seniors,” she said. “We cannot respond to the enormous need for food assistance without the generous support of community partners like Fifth Third Bank and Dayton Dragons.”

Please help Fifth Third Bank reach their goal for Fifth Third Day (May 3) of providing 530,000 meals for the hungry. For more information, visit daytondragons.com. You can text MEAL to 41444 to give a one-time or recurring gift by credit card.

The Foodbank, Inc. is in need of the following food items:

•Chili/Soup

•Cereal

•Peanut Butter & Jelly

•Canned Fruit & Vegetables

•Pasta & Canned Sauce

•Rice & Beans

•Baking Mixes

•Canned Meat & Fish

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

Fifth Third Bank (Georgia) Partners with the Augusta GreenJackets to Launch Annual Strike Out Hunger! Food Drive

April 22, 2014

Today, Fifth Third Bank (Georgia) announced it is going to bat with the Augusta GreenJackets – to launch Strike Out Hunger! This community food drive will run from April 18 through May 3 (“Fifth Third Day” on 5/3) and is aimed at collecting enough products to feed 5,300 families in the Atlanta Metro area.

Members of the community are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items – such as canned fruits and meats, peanut butter and boxed cereal – to participating Fifth Third Bank financial centers. While supplies last, the bank will give baseball game tickets to those who make a contribution to the food drive, courtesy of the Augusta GreenJackets.

“We believe that a continual investment in our community can make a meaningful impact. Each year, the bank recognizes its employees, customers and the communities it serves on the third day of the fifth month – or 5/3 on the calendar,” said Randy Koporc, president of Fifth Third Bank (Georgia). “We’re proud to be working with top-notch organizations like the Augusta GreenJackets, the Gwinnett Braves, Kennesaw State University, the Atlanta Community Food Bank and the Golden Harvest Food Bank to help families and children in need throughout the Atlanta area.”

After the month-long food drive, the bank will deliver food donations to the Golden Harvest Food Bank, which will in turn feed thousands of families.

“The need for food in our community continues to grow, and the donated items will directly help people right here in our own backyards,” said Rebecca Hersey, Chief Advancement Officer for the Golden Harvest Food Bank. “Last year, we distributed more than 16.2 million pounds of food through our network of more than 300 agencies – translating to more than 438,000 families who benefit from our efforts annually. We are grateful that Fifth Third Bank has once again focused on contributing to our mission to fight hunger and provide hope.”

“We are proud to be able to partner with Fifth Third Bank on the Strike Out Hunger! food drive,” said Tom Denlinger, General Manager of the Augusta GreenJackets. “As we continue to build on our community impact here in the CSRA for 2014, we look forward to seeing the community support this great initiative and be rewarded with a ticket to our Saturday, May 3 game at 7 p.m.”

To take part in fighting hunger and receive tickets to the Augusta GreenJackets vs. Greenville Drive on Saturday, May 3, 2014 at 7 p.m., residents can drop off food donations at financial centers in Martinez and Augusta from April 18 through May 3.

** Disclosure: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Offer available only at participating Fifth Third locations. Offer valid April 18, 2014 – May 3, 2014. Donations may be made during regular business hours. Limit one ticket per donated item with a maximum of four tickets per person. Offer good only while supplies last.

Food collection bins are set up at all 32 Fifth Third financial centers in the following counties: Columbia, Richmond, Fulton, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Walton, and Cobb. Location addresses are available at 53.com.

About the Golden Harvest Food Bank
Golden Harvest Food Bank is a volunteer-driven, non-profit organization that provides quality food and other grocery products to those in need. We do this with local community support through direct service programs, food pantries, and community education about hunger. The Food Bank was founded in Augusta, Georgia, in 1982, and now operates from three distribution centers – Augusta, GA and Aiken and Liberty, SC. Golden Harvest is a locally-supported 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides grocery products to the hungry through direct service programs and a network of more than 300 food pantries and soup kitchens. Golden Harvest distributed more than 16.2 million pounds of grocery products to those in need in fiscal year 2013.

Golden Harvest Food Bank is a member of Feeding America. For more information on how you can help eliminate hunger in our community, visit www.goldenharvest.org. You can also find Golden Harvest on Facebook and Twitter.

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

Silver Hawks to provide a Peanut Free Suite

April 22, 2014

Your South Bend Silver Hawks on Sunday, May 18th will provide a peanut free area located in the Home Plate Suite in recognition of Food Allergy Awareness Week. Food Allergy Awareness Week helps educate the public about food allergies, a potentially life-threatening medical condition.

Allergy to peanuts appears to be on the rise in children; more than 3.5 million Americans suffer from it. There are 8 types of food that are responsible for more than 90% of allergic reactions, peanuts being one of those 8 foods.

“I am excited that we are able to do this again in 2014. Last year’s event was a huge hit and we were able to provide a fun day at the ballpark that many people were not able to experience in the past. We had one family in which their son had never been to a professional baseball game before because of his peanut allergies. We want to make sure everyone has the opportunity to experience a Silver Hawks game, so we will do whatever we can to make it a reality. Because of last year’s success I expect the tickets to sell out quickly and as result, we have already started looking at dates for an additional night.” states Joe Hart, Team President.

Tickets can be purchased through the Silver Hawks’ Box Office for $17.00; space is limited to the first 50 people. Price includes a game ticket, hot dogs, hamburgers, chips and soft drinks. Call the Box Office at 574-235-9988, or stop by the Box Office, located on W. South Street to purchase tickets for the peanut free suite.

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. To purchase tickets to a game visit www.SilverHawks.com , call the Box Office at 574-235-9988, or stop by between 10:00a.m.-5:00p.m.

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

MiLB donates to Snohomish United Way

April 22, 2014

Contribution to help disaster recovery after Oso, Wash. landslide

Minor League Baseball™ Charities announced today that it is donating $10,000 to the United Way of Snohomish (Wash.) County’s Disaster Recovery Fund to aid in the relief efforts related to the March 22 mudslide in Oso, Wash. More than three dozen people have lost their lives and several others are still missing as a result of the devastating incident. The mudslide occurred just 30 miles from the Everett AquaSox, a Minor League Baseball club in the Northwest League.

“Through MiLB Charities, we are able to give back and offer support to the communities in which our clubs are a part, especially in times of need when natural disasters like the Oso mudslide occur,” said Tina Gust, MiLB™ Vice President of Business Development.

The AquaSox will present the $10,000 check, on behalf of MiLB Charities, to the United Way of Snohomish County on Friday. A formal check presentation will be made to the organization prior to an AquaSox game this summer.

The club is also donating all walk-up ticket sales from its June 16 game to the relief and recovery efforts.

“As we enter our 30th year in Snohomish County, this is the least we can do to try and help those affected by this tragedy,” said AquaSox Executive Vice President Tom Backemeyer. “We are very appreciative of Minor League Baseball and the support they have offered to our community through this generous donation.”

Through donations and support it receives from fans, teams and partners, MiLB Charities is able to contribute to local organizations in times of need and support causes that are important to its extended baseball family. Minor League Baseball Charities is a tax exempt, 501(c)(3) charitable organization affiliated with the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues.

Visit http://milbcharities.milbstore.com to make a tax-deductible donation to MiLB Charities or http://charities.milbauctions.com for additional opportunities to show your support.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Class A Short Season Northwest League. Click here to view the original story.

Pelicans team up with HTC and Backpack Buddies

April 18, 2014

Partnership renewed to bring much-needed essentials to underprivileged youth

The Myrtle Beach Pelicans, Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers, are working with HTC for a second straight season to bring Backpack Buddies Monday to TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark. The program invites fans to bring certain essentials to the ballpark for donation on Monday home games. Those donating will receive half-price admission on their Monday game ticket.

Starting in 2004, the Backpack Buddies program aims to provide schools with nutritious, child-friendly, self-serve food designed to put in a backpack and feed a child over the weekend. The program began with a pilot program of approximately 300 children. Now, a decade later, the program provides over 1,500 meals a week across Horry County.

The Pelicans are pleased to bring back the program after a successful first year with a valued partner in HTC. To participate, fans can bring the following items to Monday night home games for half-priced admission: powdered drink mix, Ramen Noodles, Pop Tarts, individual servings of pudding, individual servings of apple sauce, fruit cups, jelly (plastic container), peanut butter (small jars), Beanie Weenies, Vienna Sausage, canned meats, cereal, raviolis (pop-top cans), mac and cheese, snack crackers, chicken noodle soup (pop top cans), and unopened containers of mustard, ketchup, and mayo.

“The Help 4 Kids organization that runs Backpack Buddies is an incredible group and we’re honored to help them in their fight to ensure that the 2400+ local children have the food and nourishment the kids need,” remarked Pelicans Vice President and General Manager Andy Milovich. “Barb Mains and her staff give these kids a chance to succeed in the classroom and life. She’s a true hero and we’re fortunate to be in a position to assist her in helping kids throughout our community.”

In 2013 the Pelicans raised nearly $400,000 for various local charities. The Backpack Buddies program saw over $9,400 of those funds. This year the Pelicans have set a goal of raising $500,000 total for local charities and $10,000 for Backpack Buddies

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Click here to view the original story.

6th Annual Autism Awareness Night April 19th

April 15, 2014

With 1 in 110 children in the United States diagnosed with some form of Autism, the Hillcats are lending a hand to offer awareness and support to this cause in 2014. The 6th Annual Autism Awareness Night presented by Physicians Treatment Center is scheduled for Saturday, April 19th and will raise money for Commonwealth Autism Services.

As many as 75,000 in Virginia are affected with this developmental disability and Commonwealth Autism Services is an organization that strives to enrich the lives of those in Virginia with autism, throughout their entire lifespan through statewide services. GA tickets are $10 and two dollars of each ticket sold for April 19th’s game will be donated to this organization.

This year’s Autism Awareness Night presented by Physicians Treatment Center is slated for 6:05pm when the Hillcats will take on the Potomac Nationals at City Stadium. Plus, the first 1,000 fans through the gates that evening will receive a free commemorative t-shirt! Along with donating a portion of the ticket costs, proceeds from a silent auction, 50/50 raffle and sponsor donations will also be donated during an in-game check presentation. Last year’s Autism Awareness Night raised $11,000!

The Hillcats thank the following Autism Awareness Night Sponsors:

Physicians Treatment Center as the title sponsor; Lynchburg Project Lifesaver, Inc; Sam’s Club; After Hours Plumbing; Appalachian Orthodontics of Lynchburg; Central Virginia Autism Action Group; Courtyard by Marriott; Developmental Pediatrics; Flowers Baking Company; Gary’s Garden Center; High Peak Sportswear; Kroger; Larry’s Tire & Auto Repair; Laslie’s Auto Body; Piedmont Eye Center; Rehab Associates of Central Virginia; 97.9 FM The Planet; Servpro; Star Country/Q99/K92/WLNI; T.J. Maxx; Winoa USA; WIQO/ESPN Radio; WKDE; Wooldridge Heating, Air & Electrical; WYYD.

Fans will also have the chance to give back to great local causes with the 3rd Annual Paint the Park Purple Night presented by Gastroenterology Associates of Central VA, Relay for Life & The American Cancer Society on Friday, May 2nd at 6:05pm as well as with the 8th Annual “Swing for a Cure” Breast Cancer Awareness Night presented by Centra’s Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Society on Saturday, May 17th at 6:05pm.

To purchase tickets to Autism Awareness Night, Paint the Park Purple Night, Breast Cancer Awareness Night or any other game, fans can call the box office at (434) 528-1144 or online. Ticket purchases can also be made in person at the Lynchburg City Stadium Ticket Office (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm). So don’t miss your chance to give back to the community with the Lynchburg Hillcats this season!

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

G-Braves Partner with Fifth Third Bank on “Strike Out Hunger” Food Drive

April 15, 2014

Local Bank Aims to Collect Enough Food Donations to Feed 5,300 Families to Help Celebrate “Fifth Third Day”

Kennesaw, Ga. – Today, Fifth Third Bank (Georgia) announced it is going to bat with the Gwinnett Braves – to launch Strike Out Hunger! This community food drive will run from April 18 through May 3 (“Fifth Third Day” on 5/3) and is aimed at collecting enough products to feed 5,300 families in the Atlanta Metro area.

“We believe that a continual investment in our community can make a meaningful impact. Each year, the bank recognizes its employees, customers and the communities it serves on the third day of the fifth month – or 5/3 on the calendar,” said Randy Koporc, president of Fifth Third Bank (Georgia). “We’re proud to be working with top-notch organizations like the Gwinnett Braves, Kennesaw State University, the Augusta GreenJackets, the Atlanta Community Food Bank and the Golden Harvest Food Bank to help families and children in need throughout the Atlanta area.”

After the month-long food drive, the bank will deliver food donations to the Atlanta Community Food Bank, which will in turn feed thousands of families.

“The need for food in our community continues to increase, and the donated items will directly help people here in our own backyards,” said Bill Bolling, Founder and Executive Director of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. “Each year, we distribute more than 45 million pounds of food to help feed the food insecure through our network of more than 600 partner agencies throughout metro Atlanta and north Georgia. We are humbled that Fifth Third Bank has once again focused on contributing to our efforts to fight hunger and provide hope.”

“The Gwinnett Braves are proud to team up with Fifth Third Bank to help answer a vital need of our community,” said North Johnson, General Manager of the Gwinnett Braves. “The Atlanta Community Food Bank does a tremendous job in providing food to hungry children and families, and we are glad to do our part in helping keep those food banks stocked.”

To take part in fighting hunger and receive tickets to the Gwinnett Braves vs. Lehigh Valley Ironpigs on Saturday, May 3, 2014 at 7:05 p.m., residents can drop off food donations at financial centers in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Duluth, Lawrenceville, Loganville, Roswell, and Norcross from April 18 through May 3.

** Disclosure: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Offer available only at participating Fifth Third locations. Offer valid April 18, 2014 – May 3, 2014. Donations may be made during regular business hours. Limit one ticket per donated item with a maximum of four tickets per person. Offer good only while supplies last.

About Fifth Third Bank: Fifth Third Bancorp is a diversified financial services company headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Company has $130 billion in assets and operates 17 affiliates with 1,320 full-service Banking Centers, including 104 Bank Mart® locations, most open seven days a week, inside select grocery stores and 2,586 ATMs in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Florida, Tennessee, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Georgia and North Carolina. Fifth Third operates four main businesses: Commercial Banking, Branch Banking, Consumer Lending, and Investment Advisors. Fifth Third also has a 25% interest in Vantiv Holding, LLC. Fifth Third is among the largest money managers in the Midwest and, as of December 31, 2013, had $302 billion in assets under care, of which it managed $27 billion for individuals, corporations and not-for-profit organizations. Investor information and press releases can be viewed at www.53.com. Fifth Third’s common stock is traded on the NASDAQ® Global Select Market under the symbol “FITB.” Fifth Third Bank was established in 1858. Member FDIC.

About the Atlanta Community Food Bank: The Atlanta Community Food Bank (ACFB) began operating in 1979 from a small space at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. ACFB now distributes over 45 million pounds of food and grocery products each year from a 129,600 square-foot facility in N.W. Atlanta. The product is accessed by more than 600 partner nonprofits that provide food assistance to families and individuals in 29 counties across metro Atlanta and north Georgia. ACFB leads seven distinct projects that reinforce its mission to fight hunger by engaging, educating and empowering our community: Atlanta Prosperity Campaign, Atlanta’s Table, Community Gardens, Hunger 101, Hunger Walk/Run, Kids In Need and Product Rescue Center.

ACFB is a member of Feeding America, the national network of more than 200 food banks. For more information on the Food Bank, visit www.acfb.organd for more information on Feeding America visit www.feedingamerica.org.

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