Flying Squirrels win MiLB CommUNITY Champion Award

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – The Richmond Flying Squirrels have been named the recipient of the 2022 Minor League Baseball CommUNITY Champion Award, MiLB announced on Sunday night.

The CommUNITY Champion Award recognizes a Club that demonstrates an outstanding, ongoing commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within their local community and the baseball industry. The award was presented during the Opening Night Reception and Awards Program of the Baseball Winter Meetings at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront.

“Making an impact in the community is a pillar of our organization,” Flying Squirrels CEO Todd “Parney” Parnell said. “We strive to be a valuable community partner and aim to use our platform to make positive impacts in the Richmond region. We are grateful for this recognition from Minor League Baseball and for our community.”

In 2022, Flying Squirrels Charities expanded its areas of focus in an effort to fully encompass all the ways the Flying Squirrels impact the greater Richmond community. The newly rebranded Flying Squirrels Charities focuses on four pillars: Education, Athletics, Social Determinants and Inclusion. Flying Squirrels Charities raises funds through a number of avenues including in-stadium initiatives during the season and events around the region all year.

With Flying Squirrels Charities this year, the team has partnered to support local organizations including Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation, Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Richmond, Friendship Circle of Virginia (FCVA), Metropolitan Junior Baseball League (MJBL), Fox Elementary School and more.

The Flying Squirrels are visible in the greater Richmond community well beyond the baseball months. Mascots Nutzy and Nutasha have made more than 400 community appearances this year around the Commonwealth of Virginia. Additionally, Flying Squirrels front office staff, players and coaches have volunteered this year with organizations and events including children’s hospitals, Miracle Leagues, Feed More, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Salvation Army and others.

The Flying Squirrels continue to promote educational causes in schools around the Richmond region, including the “Go Nuts for Reading Program,” which challenges elementary and middle school students to read eight books over a two-month span to receive a free ticket to a Flying Squirrels game. This year, more than 10,000 students from 68 participating schools completed the challenge.

The Flying Squirrels launched their Executive Trainee Program, offering opportunities to students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities the opportunity to gain hands-on, professional experience working in various capacities with the team. The program is designed to create a more diverse and inclusive workforce with the goal of elevating more minorities into leadership positions throughout the professional baseball industry.

Through these and many other initiatives, the Flying Squirrels aim to make Richmond a better, more inclusive place, while simultaneously helping grow the game of baseball.

The Flying Squirrels open the 2023 season on Friday, April 7 at The Diamond against the Reading Fightin Phils. Ticket packages for the 2023 season are available now at SquirrelsBaseball.com.

Christmas With the Claws Food & Toy Drive Returns December 3rd at ShoreTown Ballpark

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities will host their annual Christmas food and toy drive, Christmas with the Claws, on Saturday, December 3rd from 10 am – 12 pm at ShoreTown Ballpark.

Santa will be at the ballpark for pictures, and his good friend Buster will be on hand too.

The event serves as a toy drive to benefit the Salvation Army of Ocean County and their annual Holiday Toy Shop. Fans are asked to bring unwrapped toys or non-perishable food. Donors will receive a ticket to Opening Night at the Jersey Shore, set for Tuesday, April 11th (one ticket per donor).

“Santa is very excited to return to ShoreTown for his annual visit and we’re looking forward to this great event,” said Jim McNamara, executive director of BlueClaws Charities. “Over the years, the BlueClaws family has been incredibly supportive of the Salvation Army and their toy drive and we hope that continues this holiday season.”

There will also be a station set up where kids can write letters to Santa, which will be sent off to the North Pole in time for Christmas! The BlueClaws will provide complimentary hot chocolate.

BlueClaws Charities will sell Mystery Bags at the event, which include merchandise and promotional items.

Finally, the Claws Cove will be open for holiday shopping with special sales and packages. New BlueClaws Marvel-inspired merchandise will be available. BlueClaws ticket representatives will be on hand as well for those that would like to give the gift of BlueClaws tickets this holiday season.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws. The organization recently distributed grants to 31 organizations that support the less fortunate around the Jersey Shore. A full list of grant recipients and programs can be found at BlueClaws.com.

-Jersey Shore BlueClaws / BlueClaws Charities-

Delmarva Shorebirds 2021 Holiday Community Impact

 

After the silver anniversary season of Delmarva Shorebirds baseball, the ‘Birds were eager to join together with community leaders to keep the good times rolling with an emphasis on creating a positive impact in our community. From packing boxes for those in need, to holiday gift drives, parades, and more,

After the silver anniversary season of Delmarva Shorebirds baseball, the ‘Birds were eager to join together with community leaders to keep the good times rolling with an emphasis on creating a positive impact in our community. From packing boxes for those in need, to holiday gift drives, parades, and more, the Shorebirds carried their mission through the beginning of the offseason to lend a helping hand and spread some holiday cheer to those on Delmarva this holiday season.

Thanksgiving for Thousands

The Delmarva Shorebirds kicked off the holiday season by participating in Mountaire Farms annual Thanksgiving for Thousands. The Shorebirds have been involved with Mountaire Farms Thanksgiving for Thousands for many years now and helped Mountaire pack over 10,000 Thanksgiving boxes for families in need across Delmarva. This event is a favorite of the Shorebirds front office and was a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season.

Salvation Army Bell Ringing

An annual tradition, the Delmarva Shorebirds’ front office staff partnered with the Shorebirds’ Fan Club to participate in Salvation Army’s Bell Ringing in front of the Salisbury Walmart this holiday season. By participating in bell ringing, the Shorebirds were able to help the Salvation Army raise holiday funds for families in need in our community, while sharing a smile and holiday cheer with customers and Shorebirds fans.

Santa’s Letters

Next, Sherman and the Shorebirds visited Santa’s Letters in Dagsboro, Delaware to help ring in the Christmas season. This event spread Christmas cheer by allowing kids to play in the winter wonderland, drink hot chocolate, and put their letter to Santa in Santa’s mailbox. Sherman was very excited for Santa to read his letter! Sherman and the Shorebirds enjoyed helping Santa’s Letters spread the joy of the holiday season for those young and old. Despite the cold, Sherman’s feathers kept him warm!

Home Instead’s “Be a Santa to a Senior” Program

At the beginning of December, the Delmarva Shorebirds partnered with Home Instead for their “Be a Santa to a Senior” program. The Shorebirds decorated a Christmas tree in their front lobby and put ornaments from Home Instead that were labeled with gifts that seniors could use this holiday season. With the help of our amazing fans, the Shorebirds were able to give many presents to the seniors in our community through the “Be a Santa to a Senior” Program. Plus, Sherman visited the MAC Center with Home Instead to spread holiday cheer to the seniors as they received their gifts. This wonderful community initiative is something the Delmarva Shorebirds welcomed for the first time this season and plan to join forces with Home Instead for the years to come.

Holiday Parades

Sherman was a very busy bird this holiday season as he attended seven (7) Christmas parades across Delmarva. On November 29th, the Shorebirds started their parade route by attending the Pocomoke Christmas Parade followed by the Berlin Christmas Parade a few days after on December 2nd. Sherman and the Shorebirds had a double header on December 4th as Sherman shook his tailfeather at both Ocean City and Seaford Christmas parades. Sherman flew closer to the nest on December 5th as he spread holiday cheer at the Salisbury Christmas Parade giving his hometown fans a reminder that baseball will soon be back at Perdue Stadium. The Shorebirds ended the parade route with the Rehoboth Christmas Parade on December 6th and the Bridgeville Christmas parade on December 12th.

Halo Trees of Hope Festival

The Shorebirds donated a Shorebirds themed Christmas tree decked out with various memorabilia including Shorebirds bobbleheads, upper reserved tickets to a Shorebirds game, and a Shorebirds Suite Night, all valuing at $1000 to Halo’s first Trees of Hope Festival. The Shorebirds’ Christmas tree along with many other trees donated by organizations across Delmarva were auctioned off with the proceeds benefiting Halo Ministry and their mission of helping those experiencing homelessness in the area.

Jaycees Christmas Shopping Tour

Sherman and the Shorebirds helped the Jaycees with their annual Christmas Shopping Tour where they spread the Christmas cheer and gave out Christmas gifts to children in the area at the Salisbury Elks Lodge #817. The Jaycees do amazing work in the community each year, and the Shorebirds are always excited for the opportunity to join forces with such a wonderful organization.

Penguin Swim

Sherman attended Atlantic General Hospital’s annual Penguin Swim in Ocean City on New Year’s Day! He cheered on attendees as they dipped their tail feathers in the ocean. Sherman was a warm, friendly face for the participants who dunked themselves in the frigid waters. The proceeds of the event benefited the hospital and their mission of providing quality care to their community, and Sherman and the Shorebirds were proud to support such an incredible event.

The Delmarva Shorebirds were able to join forces with incredible community members this holiday season to give back to our supportive community and spread holiday cheer. The Shorebirds participated in recurring events that are beloved by the team as well as new ones that the Shorebirds hope to continue year after year. With the 2022 Delmarva Shorebirds’ season quickly approaching, the team will continue to fulfill its mission of making a positive impact on the community as well as gearing up for an exciting 2022 season of Shorebirds baseball that is bound to be one of the best years yet!

Timber Rattlers Give Back Announces End-of-Year Funds Raised

 

GRAND CHUTE, WI – Timber Rattlers Give Back, the official 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, raised more than $185,000 through the Foundation’s events, programs, donations, and fundraising initiatives in 2021.

“The Timber Rattlers are fortunate to live in a supportive community and the team works hard to develop and implement programs and events to give back to the community,” said Dayna Baitinger, Director of Community Relations for the team.

Nine jersey auctions held during the season were the main fundraisers for the Timber Rattlers this year. The auctions included team-worn jerseys based on promotions for the Udder Tuggers, Los Cascabeles, Military Appreciation, Milwaukee Brewers, and Video Game.

The team is finalizing their jersey designs for the 2022 season and will unveil those designs early next year.

The annual Charity Golf Outing which was held on Tuesday, September 21 was another significant fundraiser. Nearly 100 area golfers and front office personnel collected $15,000 through the golf and raffles that were held after the outing.

An almost daily driver of donations to Give Back was the 50/50 Raffle that was held during every home game during the 2021 season. Fifty percent of all money raised during each night’s raffle went to the person with the winning ticket and the other fifty percent went to the foundation. There was over $65,000 raised for charity through the raffle during the year. The largest fund-raising night of the 50/50 raffle during the 2021 season was on Saturday, August 14 with the winner collecting $2,304 and the same amount going to Give Back.

Whiffer’s Fitness Program and Fang’s Reading Club were popular program run by the team for area youth through the mascots. The reading club is an incentive-based program that allows schools in Northeastern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula to get children from Kindergarten through fifth grade involved in reading. The fitness program helped to get kids in the Fox Cities to get and stay active.

Wisconsin front office members tended to their on-site vegetable garden to grow and harvest over 400 pounds of food in the Greenstone Farm Credit Services Ballpark Garden at Neuroscience Group Field. The harvest was taken to St. Joe’s Food Pantry. Fang celebrated his birthday in August with his annual Cans for Cake food drive and over 500 pounds of non-perishable food items were collected and donated to St. Joe’s.

Some of the charities helped by the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers in 2021 included Make-A-Wish Wisconsin, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Fox Valley Veterans Council, Children’s Cancer Family Foundation of Northeast Wisconsin, St. Joe’s Food Pantry, Harvest of Hope Fund, Hunger Task Force, Community Christmas, Fond du Lac Salvation Army, The Salvation Army-Fox Cities, Treffert Center, and Miracle League of the Fox Valley.

Additionally, 2,000 hats were presented to area Little League programs. Numerous other charities received over 10,000 ticket vouchers to be used in their own fundraisers by the Rattlers.

Timber Rattlers Give Back was established in 2019 and is dedicated to making a positive difference in our community. We aim to provide financial support and help raise awareness of charitable causes in the Fox Valley community in the areas of education, youth sports, and basic needs by using the platform made possible by Minor League Baseball and stadium ownership.

Thank you to everyone who assisted in our charitable works in 2021. We could not have accomplished this without the support of the players, coaches, and community. We look forward to growing Give Back even more in 2022.

Wind Surge Give Back 2021

 

2021 was a year full of firsts for the Wichita Wind Surge. In addition to bringing affiliated baseball back to Wichita, the inaugural season was also an opportunity for the Wind Surge to give back to a community that has rallied so much support around the new stadium and new team. Various programs and partnerships were put in place to help support several non-profit and philanthropic organizations around the Wichita and Sedgwick County community.

Cancer Awareness Night

The first of many valuable partnerships involved the Wind Surge joining forces with Central Kansas Cancer Center and McPherson College. This alliance was aimed at raising funds and awareness for the battle against cancer. The Wind Surge designed a unique Cancer Awareness Jersey that was worn by each player during the 2021 Cancer Awareness Night at Riverfront Stadium. After the game, these game- worn jerseys were auctioned off to raise money for the American Cancer Society. We were happy to donate $4,375 to the American Cancer Society to aid in their fight to find a cure for cancer.

Schwechheimer Family Foundation

The Schwechheimer Family Foundation also made its debut during the 2021 season. A 501(c)(3) organization, the Schwechheimer Family Foundation aims to support and foster underserved community members and bring the history of Wichita baseball back to life. The corporation seeks to provide opportunities for the general public to increase their understanding of Wichita’s baseball history and community pursuits. Fundraising efforts for the foundation included a 50/50 raffle during all home games, auctioning off specialty military appreciation jerseys, and the sale of 2021 inaugural season patches which featured late managing general partner, Lou Schwechheimer.

Home Runs for Charity

During the 2021 season, Wind Surge fans also witnessed our collaboration with Fidelity Bank and League 42 in our Home Runs for Charity fundraising sponsorship. League 42 is a non-profit organization, founded in July 2013, that has a goal of ensuring that urban children can have an opportunity to play baseball without the exorbitant costs of playing in organized leagues. Through this sponsorship, each time a Wind Surge player hit a homerun during a Wind Surge home game, Fidelity Bank and the Wind Surge would donate $100 to League 42. During the 2021 season, Fidelity Bank and the Wichita Wind Surge proudly donated $6,900 to League 42 in order to assist the organization in fulfilling their mission.

Outside the Ballpark

Our passion for giving back to the community did not stop with the end of the baseball season in late September. During the off season, many members of the Wind Surge front office continue to volunteer their time and efforts in the community. Staff have participated in many ways, including volunteering with the Kansas Food Bank, Salvation Army, Toys for Tots and Operation Holiday Wearhouse.

Planning for the 2022 season is well underway, and that includes the integration of community partnerships and collaboration. The 2022 season will feature many new community partnerships, and we are looking forward to continuing our mission of giving back to Wichita and surrounding communities.

To learn more about our community initiatives email Our Community Engagement Coordinator at [email protected] Want to request a Wind Surge donation gift for your next charity event? Click here to fill out a request!

Timber Rattlers Give Back Announces Donation Match for Salvation Army Kettle Campaign This Friday

 

GRAND CHUTE, WI – Timber Rattlers Give Back will participate in the Salvation Army’s Donation Match Program on Friday, December 17. The official charitable foundation of the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers will match up to $2,500 of donations to Salvation Army kettles in the Fox Cities Region this Friday.

Timber Rattlers staff members will be ringing bells for the Salvation Army Fox Cities at the Festival Foods located at 1200 West Northland Avenue from 8:00am to 4:00pm on December 17 with appearances from Fang and Whiffer during the day.

Give Back is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 2019 and dedicated to making a positive difference in our community. It aims to provide financial support and help raise awareness of charitable causes in the Fox Valley community in the areas of education, youth sports, and basic needs.

BlueClaws Charities Announces Grant Recipients

 

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – BlueClaws Charities announced a list of 31 organizations that received a grant from the organization.

BlueClaws Charities, the official non-profit organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, raises money throughout the year as part of a series of initiatives. These include a 50/50 raffle at BlueClaws home games, specialty fundraising events like the team’s Virtual Hot Stove held this year in March, merchandise sales, and more.

Grant money will once again be kept within Ocean & Monmouth Counties.

“We are delighted to once again distribute grants to these deserving non-profit organizations in our communities,” said BlueClaws Charities President Kevin Fenstermacher. “Our mission is to help those less fortunate around the Jersey Shore, and these grants to 31 unique organizations will benefit those in need.”

Below, find a list of organizations to receive a grant (organizations are listed alphabetically):

  • ALS Association of Greater Philadelphia, to subsidize their care services program for families of patients diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) in Monmouth & Ocean Counties.
  • A Need We Feed, to provide meals to veterans, seniors, elementary school children, and families in Ocean County.
  • The Arc, Ocean County Chapter, to offer fitness classes twice a week for program participants.
  • The Ashley Lauren Foundation, to provide financial assistance to families with children diagnosed with cancer.
  • The Brodie Fund, for financial assistance to families that have a pet diagnosed with cancer.
  • Brody’s Crew, to purchase drawstring bags with items like stress balls, sanitizer, glow sticks, silly string, and more, in honor of what would have been Brody’s 6th birthday, to support inpatient families at CHOP.
  • Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey, to help onboard new volunteers for the organization, which provides supportive services to people who are 60 and older and can no longer drive.
  • Child Care Resources, to support their Diaper Bank, providing diapers and wipes to individuals and organizations in Monmouth County.
  • David’s Dream & Believe Cancer Foundation, to provide financial assistance, wellness services, and hope to Jersey Shore families affected by a cancer diagnosis.
  • Easterseals New Jersey, to ensure continuation of employment services programs featuring skills evaluation, resume building and interview skills to help place participants into jobs within the local community.
  • Exit 82 Theatre Company, to help purchase a new refrigerator for concessions at performances.
  • Family Promise of Southern Ocean County, to provide emergency shelter to homeless children and their families throughout Ocean County.
  • Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore, to purchase chairs needed for their Program Activity Center in Farmingdale, which supports Girl Scout fundraisers and girl programs throughout the year.
  • Homes Now, to assist the nearly 250 individuals and families who reside in Homes Now housing units with food items, cleaning supplies, activities, and more.
  • Jersey Shore Council of the Boy Scouts of America, to offset the costs related to Scouting, such as registration fees, uniforms, and program fees, for families at the Jersey Shore.
  • JF Party Dragon, to purchase food for local food pantries
  • Kids Need More, for an event to support children under 18 and their families dealing with a cancer diagnosis.
  • LADACIN Network, to support their Give and Take Child Care Center in Monmouth County, which provides services for children with complex physical and developmental disabilities or delays and typically developing children.
  • Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Fund, towards the sponsorship of a service dog.
  • Ma Deuce Deuce, to support a Audrey’s Toy Chest, an initiative to ensure Christmas occurs for local veteran families in need.
  • The Mya Lin Terry Foundation, for siblings of those with pediatric cancer.
  • Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity, for a home repair project to help subsidize the increased costs incurred after the pandemic.
  • Ocean County Family Support Organization, to support their youth partnership, made up of youth between 12-21 living in Ocean County with behavioral, emotional, mental health, and developmental challenges.
  • Ocean County Shrine Club, to support the 20 pediatric patients of Philadelphia Shriners’ Hospital for Children based in Ocean & Monmouth Counties.
  • Ocean Partnership for Children, to support the needs of the youth served, including food, clothing, and community activities.
  • Ocean’s Harbor House, to provide shelter, support, and services for vulnerable youth including at their 12-bed shelter.
  • Parents of Autistic Children (POAC), to support their Challenger Sports League to offer a socialization opportunity through athletic participation between disabled students and their non-disabled peers.
  • Raising Hope for Others, to support their annual golf outing held in August of 2022.
  • Seabrook Village, to provide books and magazines for residents at their senior living community.
  • Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide, to distribute 200 behavioral health toolkits to students attending Monmouth/Ocean County schools.
  • The Salvation Army, to support their Hearty Helpings, which serves the hungry at their Toms River, with the purchase of additional cookware and containers.
  • Tom Giannattasio Jr. Memorial Fund, to provide financial aid to first responders, their spouse, and children struggling with finances due to medical burdens from sickness or injury.
  • United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties, to support an annual coat drive for local pre-school to middle-school aged children.

“We are very grateful to those that supported BlueClaws Charities throughout the year and look forward to additional fundraising events soon,” said Fenstermacher.

BlueClaws Charities is the official 501c3 organization of the Jersey Shore BlueClaws.

-BlueClaws Charities-

IronPigs Charities Presents $37,400 in Community Grants

 

IronPigs Charities Presents $37,400 in Community Grants

Grants were provided in support of educational and recreational programs

Allentown, Pennsylvania (9 February 2021) – IronPigs Charities presented by Air Products, the philanthropic branch of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, announced the 14 recipients of the 2021 Community Grants. Grants, which totaled $37,400, were provided to the following organizations in support of educational and recreational programs for youth in the Greater Lehigh Valley, especially those in underserved populations or those who are differently abled. IronPigs Charities has donated $1,118,729 since 2007.

“2020 was a hard year for the nonprofit community,” said IronPigs Charities Director Emily Bettys. “Despite not having a baseball season where our typical in-game fundraising efforts take place, the IronPigs had to create unique fundraising opportunities to directly benefit the community grant program for IronPigs Charities. We were able to continue our mission without interruption by funding 14 worthy projects across the Lehigh Valley, thanks to the loyal support of the IronPigs fanbase. We feel honored to have the ability to back these programs as they adapt with the times and strive to go above and beyond in making a difference for a community that had their resources cut tremendously due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Here is a full list of the 14 recipients of the 2021 Community Grants:

Boys and Girls Club of Allentown: Istation and virtual yoga at Sixth Street Clubhouse

Boys and Girls Club of Easton: Triple Play Sports, Fitness, & Recreation Program

Camelot for Children: Engagement for Children with Disabilities

Center for Vision Loss: Camp I CAN! Summer Program

Children’s Home of Easton: Health & Wellness Program

Community Bike Works: Online Earn a Bike

EHS Angel Network: EHS Angel Network Resource Closet – Athletic Apparel

Foundation for Easton School – Paxinosa Elementary School: Paxinosa National Pastime Grant

Miracle League of the Lehigh Valley: Off-Season Activities

Special Olympics PA’s Greater Lehigh Valley Pocono Region: Get Team Bethlehem to the Special Olympics North America 2021 Softball Tournament

The Arc of Lehigh and Northampton Counties: Infusion of Inclusion 2.0 Program

The Fund to Benefit Children and Youth: The Fund to Benefit Children and Youth

The Salvation Army Foster Care and Adoption: Team is Family Sports Scholarship Program

Young Life Lehigh Valley: Young Life Summer Camping Financial Assistance

The IronPigs hosted a number of special events in 2020 that directly benefited IronPigs Charities. The first of its kind – a Character Cruise-thru was held as fans were guided through Coca-Cola Park’s lots in parade-style passing by more than 60 costumed cars. Due to much success, a second cruise event was added so more fans could participate. Between the two cruises, 2,000 cars participated in total and nearly $14,000 was raised with 100% of the proceeds going to benefit IronPigs Charities.

Ballpark Bingo was held on Wednesday evenings from July through November. The event gave guests an opportunity to play 12 rounds of bingo, eat ballpark food, and soak up the ambiance of Coca-Cola Park. Bingo nights raised over $26,000 for IronPigs Charities.

Suites N Treats, which provides an all-inclusive trick or treat experience for youth who otherwise may not have had the opportunity to do so. Safety was the top priority as nearly 400 children were invited to walk the concourse along the ballpark for a socially distanced and safe trick or treat experience.

The IronPigs were not able to host games or any traditional events in 2020, but the front-office staff worked diligently to support their community partners by focusing all their efforts on funding IronPigs Charities.

IronPigs Charities is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, the cornerstone of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs’ commitment to the Lehigh Valley community and is presented by the Air Products Foundation.

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Erie’s Teams Host Drive-Thru Teddy Bear Toss and Toy Drive

 

The Erie SeaWolves, Erie Otters, and Erie BayHawks are teaming up to host a contactless drive-thru teddy bear toss and toy collection benefitting the Salvation Army of Erie on Saturday, December 19th from 10am-2pm.

Erie sports fans are encouraged to bring a new stuffed animal or boxed toy to the collection point at the East 9th Street cul-de-sac at UPMC Park’s new main entrance. Staff will be on hand to receive donations from vehicles. Social distancing and personal protection protocols will be in place (masks, hand sanitizer, etc.) to ensure the health and safety of fans and volunteers. Fans are encouraged to pack their donations in a plastic bag.

All donors will receive free hot chocolate courtesy of Tim Hortons and special offers from the teams, including a coupon for 15% off a future purchase at the Erie SeaWolves or Erie Otters team stores.

Fans should be aware of ongoing construction to the Warner Theater and adjusted traffic patterns with East 9th Street closed between State and French street, and one lane traffic on French Street near the Warner Theater construction project. Access to the collection point can be found by heading south on French Street starting at the intersection with East 8th Street.

WHO: Erie SeaWolves, Erie Otters, Erie BayHawks, and Erie Events

WHAT: Contactless drive-thru teddy bear toss and toy drive to benefit the Salvation Army of Erie

WHERE: East 9th Street cul-de-sac at the main entrance of UPMC Park

WHEN: Saturday, December 19 from 10am-2pm

Fireflies to Host Holiday Themed Virtual 5K; Mason’s Jingle Jog

A portion of Race proceeds will benefit the Salvation Army

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Columbia Fireflies are hosting a virtual holiday 5K Wednesday, December 9 through Wednesday, December 16 for fans looking to stay active this winter. The 3.1-mile race can be walked, jogged or run, and fans of all ages and athletic abilities are encouraged to participate. The race is entirely virtual and can be completed anywhere at any time between December 9-16.

Race entry fees for Mason’s Jingle Jog are $40 per person and includes a special holiday Fireflies dry-fit race shirt, entry to the race, a donation to the Salvation Army and a prize for the top male and female finishers in each of the four age brackets. The divisions will be under 18, 19-25, 26-35 and 36+. All shirts will be mailed to runners; shipping is also included in the entry fee.

Runners will track their time by joining the race group on the Strava app. Once you download the app, you can sign into the race and the app will track your time and distance and submit it to the Fireflies upon completion of your 5K. After registering for the race, runners will be sent direct access to the race group as well as instructions on how to download Strava and join the group.

”This is a great virtual event to promote fitness and our community’s great holiday spirit of giving,” said Fireflies team President John Katz. “The Salvation Army does such amazing work in our region, and we’re excited to continue our support.”

To sign-up for the race, visit the race registration page here. Registration orders placed before December 2nd will receive their race shirts the week of December 9th. Registration orders placed after the 2nd will receive their shirt after the race. For more information about this event and other upcoming events at Segra Park and in the Midlands Community, visit ColumbiaFireflies.com.

BlueClaws Charities Christmas Cruise-Thru on December 12th

Drive-through event to include appearance by Santa; toy drive to benefit Salvation Army of Ocean County

JERSEY SHORE, NJ – Santa Claws is coming to the Jersey Shore! BlueClaws Charities will host their first Christmas Cruise-Thru in the parking lot of FirstEnergy Park on Saturday, December 12th from 10 am until 12 pm. The event, which takes place exclusively in vehicles, serves as a toy drive benefiting the Salvation Army of Ocean County.

This event replaces the annual _Breakfast With Buster Holiday Food & Toy Drive_, which could not be held this year in its traditional form due to COVID-19 regulations.

Beginning at 10 am, cars will pull into the lot at FirstEnergy Park and stop at four different stations.

  1. Item Collection – we will be collecting unwrapped toys and non-perishable food to benefit the Salvation Army of Ocean County.
  2. Letters to Santa – children are encouraged to bring letters for Santa. We’ll collect them and send them off to the North Pole!
  3. Picture with Buster and Santa – Santa and Buster will take a picture in front of each car, which we’ll then email to everyone after the event.
  4. Hot Chocolate – the BlueClaws will deliver hot chocolate to each car as a thank you for their participation.

“We’ve welcomed Santa to FirstEnergy Park for the last two decades, and while we can’t do that in the traditional manner this year, we wanted to still offer local families the chance to see Santa and for kids to drop off their letters,” said BlueClaws Team President Joe Ricciutti. “Plus, our community has been immensely supportive of the Salvation Army and their food and toy drive over the years, and that is especially important in 2020.”

Each vehicle will also receive a coupon code that can be used online for 25% off in the Jersey Shore BlueClaws Team Store. Orders must be placed by December 16th to ensure Christmas delivery.

Fans will never leave their vehicle at the event. BlueClaws staff members will be wearing masks at all times.

Chasers in the Community

 

The Omaha Storm Chasers in conjunction with Chasers Charities and Spectra Food Services and Hospitality combined for over 600 hours of community service in the Omaha Metro this year, and welcomed nearly 90,000 fans to a safe and socially distant Werner Park in 2020.

“We are proud of our staff for continuing to work in the community during this especially difficult year and we will continue to pursue opportunities and plan events that provide community connections in 2021,” said Storm Chasers General Manager Laurie Schlender. “While we have had staff reductions and no baseball in 2020, our commitment to being involved in the community has not wavered and we are planning things for 2021 that will continue that commitment.”

The Storm Chasers organization was also visible throughout the Omaha Metro community, as the combined number of mascot and staff appearances totaled 75. Chasers Charities in partnership with The Weitz Company also awarded two $1,000 college scholarships through the Jackie Robinson Scholarship program to Livia McFadden and Nolan Christianson. The Chasers also partnered with numerous non-profit organizations throughout the year including Ronald McDonald House Charities, the Salvation Army, the Tangier Shrine, Project Wee Care and the Foodbank for the Heartland amongst many others. They also partnered with Jack Daniels to provide for Operation Ride Home for the second straight year.

A brand new classroom program, Chasers All-Stars, was also created in 2020 providing parents, teachers, and administrators the ability to nominate teachers from the metro to be honored. Over 20 classrooms were surprised in February and March with a visit from Stormy, a weather demonstration provided by KMTV and a variety of prizes.

Despite many challenges brought by Covid-19, the Storm Chasers remained committed to providing relief for the Omaha Metro Community. A partnership with Kidwell Inc. provided 25 gallons of hand sanitizer to the Ronald McDonald House in April and nearly $1000 was donated to the Foodbank of the Heartland through Feeding America, while donating tickets for the 2021 season to frontline workers. The Storm Chasers were also able to provide a sense of normalcy providing two free drive-in firework shows and six Curbside To Go pick up meals.

A full overview of the Storm Chasers’ 2020 Community Relations efforts can be found online here.

Pelicans Host Online Charity Bobblehead Challenge

 

The Myrtle Beach Pelicans are teaming up with Carolina Cool, WPDE, and Gator 107.9 to feature the Adam Dellinger vs. Ed Piotrowski Charity Bobblehead Challenge. Fans will have the opportunity to pick a bobblehead of their choosing for a $20 charitable donation. Both bobbleheads will be available through the team website and online store beginning Tuesday, October 13 at 10am EST. Complete details as well as a link to the bobbleheads are available at myrtlebeachpelicans.com/bobbleheadchallenge.

Proceeds from the Adam bobblehead will benefit the family of Maddie McKnight and proceeds from the Ed bobblehead will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation and The Salvation Army.

“The charity bobblehead challenge is certainly different than our traditional method of distributing bobbleheads,” stated Pelicans General Manager Ryan Moore. “But we’ve chosen this approach because we do not view this promotion as a giveaway but instead as a fundraiser designed to do the most good. We’re excited to be partnering with Adam and Ed and know that this wouldn’t be possible without their support.”

Maddie Mcknight was a young Seaside Elementary School Student who battled Rett Syndrome. Tragically, Maddie, a second grader at Seaside, lost her battle with the debilitating illness earlier this year. This rare, non-inherited genetic postnatal neurological disorder occurs primarily in girls and more rarely in boys. Rett syndrome leads to severe impairments, affecting nearly every aspect of the child’s life.

“I have the honor to be able to work with, and support several Grand Strand Charities. Many of these charities impact hundreds of folks, stated Adam Dellinger, host of the Gator Morning Show. “Sometimes though, it’s really great to be able to help one person or a single family. Maddie’s story hit close to home for me as the father of a young girl, and I’m thankful to be able to use the Charity Bobblehead Challenge to help her family during this unimaginably difficult time. Maddie’s family is hampered with medical expenses, and hopefully, through this fundraiser, we can work to ease their burden.”

The Salvation Army exists to meet human needs wherever, whenever, and however we can. Through programs that serve the mind, body, and soul, we alleviate the effects of poverty, then work to address root causes.

Every 34 minutes Make-A-Wish® grants the wish of a child diagnosed with a critical illness in the United States and its territories. They believe that a wish experience can be a game-changer. This one belief guides them in everything they do and inspires them to grant wishes that change the lives of the kids they serve.

“During the pandemic, everyone is struggling,” stated Ed Piotrowski. “I chose the Salvation Army as one of the beneficiaries because of the incredible work they do in our community helping people get their basic needs met. The other half of the proceeds will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. No child should ever have to deal with a life-threatening medical condition. By fulfilling their wishes, I hope to take their minds off their illness and bring joy to their lives. More importantly, I hope it gives them the strength and courage to battle and beat their illness.”

Dell Diamond to Host Donation Drive Benefiting The Salvation Army

 

ROUND ROCK, Texas – The Round Rock Express and Brown Distributing, Central Texas’ local Anheuser-Busch distributor, are teaming up to host a donation drive at Dell Diamond to benefit The Salvation Army. The drive is set for Wednesday, June 3 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. in the Suite Parking Lot on the South side of Dell Diamond.

The Salvation Army’s biggest needs are household items, including pots, pans and kitchen appliances, as well as good standing furniture and lightly worn clothes. For more information on items that The Salvation Army can and cannot accept, please click here.

“Like most places in our community, we have taken a financial hit when it comes to serving vulnerable people in our community,” Austin Area Commander of The Salvation Army Major Lewis Reckline said. “Our family stores help people provide rehabilitation services to those who are struggling with addiction in our community. We accept clothes, furniture, cars, boats, household items and much more. Shop local and donate local to help our struggling neighbors.”

The Express and Brown Distributing recently joined forces to host a blood donation drive at Dell Diamond. With both organizations sharing resources to host the event, over 70 units of blood were donated to benefit We Are Blood. The Express and Brown Distributing are aiming to make a similarly impactful donation to The Salvation Army on June 3.

“We are honored to partner with the Round Rock Express on community events that give back to organizations like We Are Blood and The Salvation Army,” Brown Distributing Vice President Laurie Brown said. “Brown Distributing has been serving the Austin area since 1962 and supporting our community, especially in times of need, has been a company priority since our inception.”

Both The Salvation Army and Brown Distributing will have trucks on hand at Dell Diamond to accept donations. Those wishing to bring donations are asked to please wear a mask or protective face covering while at the stadium.

“We take pride in the fact that Dell Diamond continues to be a community pillar in Central Texas, and it is our honor to use our facility to host a donation drive to benefit the great work that The Salvation Army is doing,” Round Rock Express General Manager Tim Jackson said. “By sharing resources with our great partners at Brown Distributing, we have proven just what an impact we all can make if we work together to assist the most vulnerable members of our community.”

For more information about the Express, visit RRExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!

 

South Bend Cubs Offering Personalized Messages for Donations to Food Pantry

SOUTH BEND, IN – The South Bend Cubs are offering an opportunity to help the community and provide you with a special memento. Fans can purchase a message to be displayed on the video board at Four Winds Field for a minimum donation of $10 and receive a digital copy of that message on the video board. All of the money raised will go to the Walter A. Meyer Food Pantry at the Salvation Army Kroc Center Family Resource Center.

Fans will receive an added bonus and have their message displayed on the South Bend Cubs Facebook and Twitter pages. Those who do not wish their message to be added should leave a note in the comments section at check out.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE

“During this time of social distancing, we’re actively trying to find ways to help our community,” said South Bend Cubs Team President Joe Hart. “We know there are some in our community that are food insecure or having a difficult time. The Kroc Center is just one of the many organizations providing assistance for those who need it. I’m encouraging anyone who is looking for a unique gift for a friend or family member to purchase a message. It’s a great way to show someone you care and help our community at the same time.”

“The Salvation Army, motivated by God’s love, continues to meet human needs through its Family Resource Center, ensuring that families and individuals have food to eat,” said Senior Kroc Officer Monty Wandling. “In the first two weeks of our drive-through pantry we have already given away 300 prepackaged food boxes to aid our fellow community members who are struggling during this time of quarantine. Your ongoing prayer and financial support of our service to the community are greatly appreciated.”

The process is simple. Fans can visit SouthBendCubs.com and click on the video board message request link through the Cubs Den Team Store. Just select the amount you wish to donate (minimum $10 donation) and go to check out. In your shopping cart special instructions box, enter your personalized message then click checkout.

Message requests will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, with a maximum of 20 per day. There are no refunds for video board messages. The South Bend Cubs reserve the right to approve and edit any message. Messages that contain obscene or offensive content or include foul language will not be accepted. Marketing messages are not permitted. Photos will be sent to the email provided associated with the Team Store account.

About the South Bend Cubs

The South Bend Cubs are the Class A minor league affiliate of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs. Over the past 32 seasons, the team has won four Midwest League titles, most recently in 2019, and has captured eight division titles. In 2019, the South Bend Cubs hosted the Midwest League All-Star Game. In June 2017, Four Winds Field, home of the South Bend Cubs, was voted Best Class A ballpark in the country by Ballpark Digest. In 2015 the team was named Ballpark Digest’s Team of the Year and received the John H. Johnson President’s Award, the highest award in minor league baseball. The team is owned and operated by Swing-Batter-Swing, LLC whose principal shareholder is Andrew T. Berlin of Chicago, Ill. More information is available at www.SouthBendCubs.com.