Salvation Army

C’s and Safeway bring holiday cheer to The Salvation Army

October 9, 2014

Members of the C's front office staff join Safeway Canada and Salvation Army staff to celebrate another Canadians Thanksgiving in Downtown Vancouver. — Members of the C’s front office staff join Safeway Canada and Salvation Army staff to celebrate another Canadians Thanksgiving in Downtown Vancouver.

The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club in cooperation with Safeway Canada handed out 100 family-sized turkeys on Thursday afternoon to local families in need at The Salvation Army located at 3221 Fraser Street.

The Canadians and Safeway Canada have taken pride in working together for the past seven years to continue this community initiative that brings families from all across Vancouver together with a family-sized centerpiece in tie for the holiday weekend.

“We are fortunate to have a partner like Safeway Canada who generously donates these family-sized turkeys to families in need. Through the efforts of The Salvation Army, we are able to reach those families from all across Vancouver who would benefit most from this kind of effort,” states Vancouver Canadians Director, Community Relations Jeff Holloway.

Since its inception in 2008, the Canadians along with Safeway Canada have donated more than 800 turkeys along with basting trays and cooking instructions to families from all across Vancouver.

The Vancouver Canadians Baseball Club wishes to thank both Safeway Canada and The Salvation Army for making another ‘Canadians Thanksgiving’ possible and wish everyone a festive holiday weekend.

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

Naturals to Raise Money for Tornado Relief at Arvest Ballpark

May 22, 2014

Team puts programs in place over Memorial Day weekend to help tornado victims in Arkansas

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are teaming up to help the Salvation Army Northwest Arkansas Area Command as they assist with the recovery efforts after devastating tornadoes hit Central and North Central Arkansas in late April.

This Memorial Day weekend, the Naturals will do our Launch-A-Ball Fundraiser – normally done after each Friday home game – following the Post-Game Fireworks Spectacular on both Friday, May 23rd and Sunday, May 25th. Fans can purchase Launch-A-Balls for $1 at each game, and then try and hit targets on the field after the game to win prizes from the Naturals. In addition, 100% of the proceeds will be given to the Salvation Army Northwest Arkansas Area Command to help tornado victims in Arkansas.

On Saturday, May 24th, the Naturals will hold a memorabilia auction behind Section 109 on the concourse that will feature signed memorabilia from the Naturals, the Kansas City Royals, and other Minor and Major League organizations. Like with Launch-A-Ball, 100% of the auction proceeds will go to tornado relief efforts and the Salvation Army.

Items that will be up for auction on Saturday night include a Vance Wilson Jersey, a Wil Myers Jersey, a Brian Poldberg Kansas City Royals Jersey, a Frank White autographed Wichita Wranglers Jersey, a 2008 Naturals’ team autographed jersey, along with a wide array of autographed baseballs, and other items collected over the past few weeks. The auction will end in the middle of the 6^th inning.

“Our hearts go out to those affected by this devastating weather,” said Justin Cole, Naturals General Manager. “The needs of these areas will go on for a long time, and we wanted to do our part to continue to raise funds and awareness for their recovery.”

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

“Yes we Can”-ned Food Drive

April 8, 2014

In conjunction with the Salvation Army of Beloit and the Salvation Army of Janesville the Snappers are proud to announce our “Yes We Can” food drive. The Snappers invite fans to bring canned or non-perishable food items to the ballpark for any of the games April 14^th -18^th and fans will receive a ticket voucher for the Snappers game on Wednesday May 14^th! All food donated will be split between the food pantries at the Salvation Army of Beloit and the Salvation Army of Janesville.

“We are so excited to have this new promotion at the ballpark this season. The work done at the Salvation Army in both Beloit and Janesville is a vital part of our community and we are happy to be a part of it” said Snappers President Dennis Conerton.

Tami Prochazka of the Salvation Army in Janesville said, “The Salvation Army appreciates this partnership with the Beloit Snappers and the community in ensuring food pantry shelves are stocked and ready to assist families in need during difficult times. The Yes We Can food drive is a win-win for The Salvation Army, food pantry families and avid baseball fans.”

The Snappers will be taking on the Great Lakes Loons Monday April 14^th-16^th all games starting at 6:30 pm with gates opening at 5:30 pm. April 17^th-18^th the Snappers will take on the Lansing Lugnuts with both games starting at 6:30 pm gates opening at 5:30 pm. For tickets visit the Snappers Box Office or call 608-362-2272.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Beloit Snappers. Click here to view the original story.

Chasers in the Community: November 14th – November 30th

November 14, 2013

Storm Chasers staff to participate in Salvation Army Bell Ringing and Open Door Mission’s Drumsticks on Wheels

Spotlight: Salvation Army Bell Ringing at Hy-Vee Shadow Lake – Nov. 14

The Storm Chasers staff will serve as bell ringers for donations to the Salvation Army in front of Hy-Vee Shadow Lake on Thursday, November 14^th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This is the third consecutive year the Storm Chasers staff has served as bell ringers. Mascot Stormy will be participating from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Thursday, November 14

SilverRidge Assisted Living Visit (2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.) – Before their “Birthday Party” on November 15^thin the Storm Front Team Store, all three Chasers mascots will be visiting the residents of SilverRidge Assisted Living (sponsor of the Silver Chasers Club) to celebrate their “Birthday” in a private event.

Friday, November 15

Hands of the Heartland Ribbon Cutting (11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.) – Mascot Casey will attend this Bellevue Chamber Ribbon Cutting Celebration, to welcome this new business to the community.
Stormy & Vortex’s Birthday Party (4:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.) – Stormy and Vortex celebrate the third anniversary of their introduction as mascots at the Storm Front Team Store. Guests are encouraged to bring new unwrapped toys to benefit Toys for Tots and in exchange will receive a 40% coupon to the store (up to three toys max per person). Free refreshments will be provided and party games will be played.

Saturday, November 16

Westroads Mall Santa’s Arrival Event (9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.) – Stormy will join friends of Westroads Mall to await Santa’s arrival. Once Santa arrives, Stormy will be part of Santa’s parade through the mall.

Monday, November 18

Majestix Salon Ribbon Cutting (11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.) – Mascot Casey will attend this Bellevue Chamber Ribbon Cutting Celebration, to welcome this new business to the community.

Saturday, November 23

Open Door Mission Drumsticks On Wheels – Members of the Storm Chasers Front Office Staff will volunteer their time to deliver the fixings of a proper Thanksgiving dinner to those in need in the Omaha Metro throughout the day. This is the third consecutive year the Chasers have participated in this cause.

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

12/14: Breakfast With Buster Food/Toy Drive

November 12, 2013

14th annual event benefits the Salvation Army of Ocean County

LAKEWOOD, NJ – The BlueClaws will host their 14th annual Breakfast With Buster Holiday Food & Toy Drive on Saturday, December 14th from 9 am – 11 am at FirstEnergy Park. The team will collect unwrapped toys and non-perishable food to benefit the Salvation Army of Ocean County.

Buster and his holiday friend, Santa Claus, will be at the park to greet fans who donate.

Bagels will be provided by Manhattan Bagel of Brick while the BlueClaws will provide coffee for fans. The free event will be held in the Upstairs Club on the Luxury Suite level.

“This has been one of our best events for the last 13 years,” said BlueClaws General Manager Brandon Marano. “We look forward to another successful holiday food and toy drive benefiting those less fortunate in our area.”

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.

Ticket packages and group outings for the 2014 season are on sale now by calling 732-901-7000 option 3 or online at BlueClaws.com.

– BlueClaws –

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

August 23: Fireworks, School Supply Drive

August 13, 2013

To benefit the Salvation Army of Ocean County

LAKEWOOD, NJ – The BlueClaws will host a School Supply Drive at their game on Friday, August 23rd to benefit the Salvation Army of Ocean County.

Fans are encouraged to drop off items at the New Jersey Natural Gas Information Booth during the game, which begins at 7:05 pm.

Anyone that donates will receive a voucher for two tickets to one of the four Labor Day weekend BlueClaws home games – August 30th – September 2nd (promotions here).

The August 23rd game includes post-game fireworks thanks to Toyota/Scion World of Lakewood. For tickets, please call 732-901-7000 option 2 or click here.

– BlueClaws –

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

Hits for Home Invitational will benefit tornado-affected communities in Kentucky

February 27, 2013

Sixteen Kentucky high school teams to compete in the invitational with funds going to those affected by the tornadoes.

WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK (Lexington, KY) – Whitaker Bank and the Lexington Legends will serve as hosts for the Hits for Home Invitational March 13-16. Proceeds will go to the Salvation Army, which will then allocate funds to assist communities affected by the March 2012 tornadoes.

Sixteen Kentucky high school baseball teams, many of them representing tornado-affected areas, will participate in the eight-game event at Whitaker Bank Ballpark, home of the Legends, who are a class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals.

Tickets to each session (two games per day) are five dollars per person at the gates on the days of the games. There will be no advance sale of tickets. Raffle tickets will be available for purchase. Winning tickets will be drawn and prizes awarded at the end of the final day of competition.

“We are super excited to be part of this event,” said Legends General Manager Seth Poteat. “It’s a great way to give back in some small way to those communities that were devastated last year.”

The worst of the severe weather hit Kentucky on March 2, 2012, causing 24 deaths. More than 300 people were injured, and many Kentuckians are still struggling to repair and rebuild their lives, homes and communities.

To make a personal donation to the tornado survivors, contact Lindsay Hinkebein at Whitaker Bank, 859-293-6005.

Hits For Home Invitational Schedule at Whitaker Bank Ballpark:
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
5 p.m. Elliott County vs. Menifee County
7 p.m. Powell County vs. South Laurel

Thursday, March 14, 2013
5 p.m. Johnson Central vs. North Laurel
7 p.m. Prestonsburg vs. Lawrence County

Friday, March 15, 2013
5 p.m. Hazard vs. Sheldon Clark
7 p.m. Montgomery County vs. Nicholas County

Saturday, March 16, 2013
11 a.m. Wolfe County vs. Morgan County
1 p.m. Paintsville vs. Bath County

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Lexington Legends1. Click here to view the original story.

2013 Grant Beneficiaries Announced

January 26, 2013

IronPigs Charities presented by The Air Production Foundation, a non-profit organization striving to provide educational and recreational opportunities for children in the Greater Lehigh Valley area, will award a total of $85,700 in cash grants to 20 non-profit organizations during Thursday’s sold-out Phillies Winter Banquet featuring 1,100 guests at the Sands Events Center. Since debuting in 2007, IronPigs Charities has contributed a total in excess of $550,000 in cash grants and $215,000 in in-kind donations to dozens of local non-profit entities.

“Without question, this is the most rewarding night of the year for our organization,” remarked IronPigs Charities President Kurt Landes. “Make no mistake; these contributions would not be possible without the loyal support of our fans and business partners. We are truly humbled by the generous backing that IronPigs Charities receives and we look forward to continuing to make a tangible impact in our wonderful community.”

One of the annual highlights of the Winter Banquet event is the distribution of grants to local non-profit organizations. In fact, over $280,000 has been distributed at this event alone since debuting in 2008.

The 2013 beneficiaries along with a brief synopsis of their benefitting programs are listed below:

Allentown School District Foundation: An after-school intra-district middle school baseball program will be started in Allentown School District. At current, the Allentown School District does not have a baseball program at the middle school level. This program will allow for dozens of 6th, 7th and 8th graders to play baseball.
Boys and Girls Club of Bethlehem: Mind, Body and Soul are the three components of the Triple Play program. The multi-faceted program is designed to help young people become healthy and active while forming new relationships.
Boys and Girls Club of Easton: The Triple Play program consisting of the Mind, Body & Soul components, addresses a need for low-income youth to get more structured exercise in sports, explore healthy nutrition and learn social skills.
Community Bike Works: Children participate in a three month “Earn a Bike” program in which they receive instruction on bike mechanics, bike safety, employment skills and business concepts. At the successful conclusion of the program they earn a bike and a helmet.
Easton Police Athletic League: New uniforms and equipment will be purchased for the Easton Police Athletic League’s wrestling program. This program serves 50 youth from the Easton area.
Family YMCA of Easton, Phillipsburg & Vicinity: The Family YMCA Summer Youth Basketball League serves boys and girls ages 8 to 18. This program supports 80 youth and focuses on low income families.
Friends of the Allentown Parks: The Queen of the Court will give girls in the city of Allentown the opportunity to play basketball. Nearly 100 girls are expected to participate in the four week program.
Lehigh County Conference of Churches: The Aspires mentoring program addresses the health and wellness of at-risk youth in the Allentown School District. The IronPigs Charities grant will fund ten weeks of recreational and educational group activities.
Lehigh County Youth Association: LCYA serves over 100 youth who participate in a variety of sports, including baseball. The IronPigs Charities grant will provide new catchers equipment, a pitching machine, new bases as well as field maintenance equipment.
Lehigh Valley Zoo: The Lehigh Valley Zoo’s Wildlife & Wellness Program is a nature inspired health and fitness after-school program to benefit primarily disadvantaged, school-age youth in our community.
Lower Macungie Youth Association: After receiving a 2012 grant for field maintenance related items, Lower Macungie Youth Association will now receive funding for a storage shed for the items that were purchased last year.
Mikayla’s Voice: This June, Mikayla’s Voice will be hosting a one-of-a-kind triathlon for children with and without disabilities. Children with physical disabilities will participate in all three phases of a triathlon with a little help from their friends.
Miracle League of the Lehigh Valley: Their mission is to provide an all-inclusive baseball program for children with various special needs. The IronPigs Charities grant will provide uniforms and equipment for the nearly 300 players in the league.
Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley: Golden Dippers Ice Cream Parties will take place at the Children’s Hospital at Lehigh Valley Health Network for children battling cancer who are hospitalized. Additionally, PCFLV will celebrate the end of chemotherapy treatments with a Last Round of Chemo party.
Sacred Heart Hospital: An afternoon program of health and wellness will provide over 400 low-income youth with fitness activities, healthy snacks, fresh fruits and vegetables and a backpack giveaway filled with school supplies.
Salvation Army: The Breaking Barriers Fitness Camp will teach youngsters how to get fit, how the body works and the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. Each child will receive a personalized workout routine after the instructional sessions.
Special Olympics Lehigh County: A full course of track and field events will be setup for over 500 Special Olympics Athletes at Whitehall High School.
Valley Youth House: Valley Youth House will be building “Pigtown” as the fifth element of the adventure course at Camp Fowler. Throughout the year nearly 850 youth will participate in the adventure course.
YWCA of Bethlehem: The YWCA will give over 50 girls the opportunity to learn the game of golf. Held at Southmoore Golf Course and Wedgewood Golf Course, the young women will learn the necessary skills needed to play in tournaments throughout the area.

Philadelphia Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro, Jr., manager Charlie Manuel along with Dave Brundage (IronPigs manager), C Erik Kratz and INF Kevin Frandsen headline the sold-out 2013 Phillies Winter Banquet presented by The Air Products Foundation, Coca-Cola and the Lehigh Valley Health Network to be held on Thursday at the brand-new Sands Events Center in Bethlehem. Other Phillies dignitaries include Benny Looper (Asst. GM), Joe Jordan (Dir., Player Development) and Steve Noworyta (Asst. Dir., Player Development).

The Phillies Winter Banquet beneficiary, IronPigs Charities, is a recognized 501(c) (3) non-profit organization on the state and federal level.

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

Knights Raise Money for Salvation Army

December 23, 2012

The Charlotte Knights’ season of giving continued on Thursday, December 20 at the Six Pence Pub in Fort Mill. For over three hours, front office staff members volunteered their time to raise money for the Salvation Army.

The Knights arrived around 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, eager to learn a new trade and give back to the community. With help from seasoned professionals – a.k.a Six Pence Pub bartenders, the crew quickly got the hang of things.

Beginning at 6:00 p.m., staff members served drinks and food to the crowd.

Becka Leveille, Knights Merchandise Director, and Justin Fulbright, Knights Assistant Groundskeeper, both stepped right in and began making drinks.

“It was a lot of fun,” exclaimed Leveille. “I learned a few things about bartending and I got to talk to some passionate Knights fans. I may have found my second career!”

Erik Hassy, GM of Ovations, and Knights Media Relations Director Tommy Viola, were also on-hand to help with the volunteering efforts on Thursday. Knights Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer Dan Rajkowski came out to support the Salvation Army and his team’s efforts on Thursday.

Every 30 minutes, Viola rang a bell located behind the bar and announced a raffle prize. Lucky fans won shirts, tickets to a 2013 Knights game, a Knights jersey signed by the 2012 team, a Brian Anderson autographed bat, and more.

“It was great to get behind the bar, serve drinks, announce raffle prizes, and talk to our fans,” stated Viola. “There’s nothing like getting out in the community and meeting Knights fans. It was especially gratifying to know that all of the money we raised was for the Salvation Army.”

Knights Community Relations Director Lindsey Roycraft also played a key role on Thursday. Thanks to her strong ties with the community, events like the one on Thursday are made possible.

“It was a very positive event,” said Roycraft. “I look forward to working with Ray and the entire Six Pence Pub staff again during our upcoming 2013 season. Next time, we’ll bring a Knights player or two.”

Overall on Thursday, the Knights and Six Pence Pub raised $625.00 for the Salvation Army.

Members of the Knights front office volunteered their time on Thursday, December 20.Earlier in December, the Knights held a toy and coat drive at Knights Stadium during the team’s first-ever “Winter Wonderful” event. The team also worked with Angel Tree this year to make sure two boys received all of the presents they asked for this year.

Over the next couple of weeks, staff members will volunteer at the Men’s Shelter of Charlotte and Classroom Central.

“Volunteering and giving back is a big part of what we enjoy doing,” added Roycraft. “We look forward to keeping that going in 2013 and beyond.”

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

Lexington Legends donations top $800,000 for the 2012 season

November 16, 2012

The Lexington Legends announced donations for the 2012 season totaling $800,629.43 to a variety of non-profit organizations serving Central Kentucky. The Ivy Walls Charitable Giving Foundation Fund at Bluegrass Community Foundation, in cooperation with the Legends and business sponsors, presented checks to organization representatives today in the Kentucky Ale Taproom at Whitaker Bank Ballpark.

Ivy Walls Management is a Lexington-based organization that manages the operation of Minor League Baseball teams, including the Legends.

In its 12-year history, the Legends organization has donated more than $11 million to the region.

“It’s a pleasure to work with the representatives of these organizations all year round,” said Legends Director of Community Relations and Special Events Sarah Bosso. “We’re looking forward to another great year in 2013.”

“The Legends have always made community involvement a high priority,” added Legends President/COO Andy Shea. “This event is a nice celebration that brings our business partners together with the organizations that we are proud to support.”

Among organizations receiving funds were:

Autism Society of the Bluegrass: Autism Awareness Night at Whitaker Bank Ballpark was sponsored by Eastern Kentucky University, which purchased special caps worn by Legends players in that night’s game. The caps were auctioned after the game to support the Autism Society.

Boy Scouts of America Bluegrass Council: Sponsored by Windstream, a $25 donation was made to the Boy Scouts for every double or triple by a Legends player during home games.

Bluegrass Military Affairs Coalition (BMAC) Kentucky Wounded Warriors: The Legends supported BMAC with an auction of autographed baseballs and equipment on Military Appreciation Night July 28.

Breast Cancer Research and Awareness: Sleep Outfitters donated five dollars for every strikeout recorded by Legends’ pitchers during home games. The total donated was divided among three organizations: The Pink Connection, which serves breast cancer patients on a personal basis by reducing or eliminating barriers to screening, diagnosis, and treatment; The Markey Cancer Center, established in 1983 as a Comprehensive Cancer Center; and Susan G. Komen For the Cure, the largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer in the world. The Legends and Sleep Outfitters also hold an annual dinner, with proceeds going to those same three breast cancer charities. In addition, pink jerseys worn by Legends players in that night’s game are sold through a silent auction.

Folds of Honor: For every run the Legends scored at home in 2012, Kentucky Eagle donated $10 to the Folds of Honor Foundation, which provides scholarships and other assistance to spouses and dependents of military personnel who were killed or disabled in military operations.

Kentucky Children’s Hospital: For every stolen base by a Legends’ player during a home game, Insight donated $10 to Kentucky Children’s Hospital, which provides advanced care for children, including specialized emergency transport and Level III Care at the Neonatal ICU.

LexArts: LexArts, Lexington’s cultural development, advocacy and fund raising organization, was a beneficiary of the 2012 Whitaker Insurance Group W.I.G. 5K run/walk held at Whitaker Bank Ballpark August 25.

P.A.W.S.: Sponsored by IncrediPet, two “Bark in the Park” nights were held during the 2012 season, on which dog owners were invited to bring their dogs to a Legends game. The “admission” price for dogs was a donation to the Paris Animal Welfare Society (P.A.W.S.)

Salvation Army: The Whitaker Bank Piggy Bank stationed on the concourse gave Legends’ fans an opportunity to make donations to the Salvation Army.

St. Baldrick’s Foundation: The volunteer-driven charity committed to funding the most promising research to find cures for childhood cancers was another beneficiary of the 2012 Whitaker Insurance Group W.I.G. 5K run/walk held at Whitaker Bank Ballpark August 25.

St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Scholarship Program: At the end of every baseball season, the Legends hold a silent auction for the home jerseys worn during the season with proceeds going to the St. Joseph Hospital Nursing Scholarship Program.

United Way of the Bluegrass: The United Way was the beneficiary of the LexMark Softball Invitational in July. The Legends also worked with United Way on ticket giveaways to United Way donors, listed below.

In-kind donations

The Legends also make substantial in-kind donations throughout the year to many groups and organizations, including a long-standing relationship with United Way of the Bluegrass. Donors to the annual United Way of the Bluegrass campaign receive two free box seat tickets to a Legends home game. In the 2012 season, more than 38,000 box seat tickets were given to United Way donors.

In-kind projects were also associated with YMCA of Central Kentucky, Lexington Clinic, American Diabetes Association, Bluegrass Regional Mental Health/Mental Retardation Board, DanceBlue, a student-run philanthropy at the University of Kentucky, and Hit the Books, a joint effort between the Legends and Chick-Fil-A to encourage Central Kentucky students to read.

Helping Hens award $30K to local non-profits!

August 31, 2012

The Toledo Mud Hens announced today that during the 2012 season, the Helping Hens Charitable Fund awarded $30,000 in grants to local nonprofit organizations, providing youth with sports and recreation services.

Helping Hens Charitable Fund

“Helping Hens” is the official charitable fund of the Toledo Mud Hens baseball club and is administered through the Toledo Community Foundation. Keith Burwell, President of the Toledo Community Foundation, and Cheri Pastula, Manager of Community Relations for the Mud Hens, presented checks to the grant winners prior to the Hens game on Sunday, August 26th.

“These organizations do exceptional work and the Mud Hens are thrilled to support local children in their efforts to stay active and healthy,” said Cheri Pastula, Manager of Community Relations for the Mud Hens.

The 2012 “Helping Hens” Grant Winners

Ability Center of Greater Toledo – A grant was awarded to implement a bicycle education program for individuals with disabilities.

Children’s Resource Center – A grant was awarded to provide a one-year membership to the Bowling Green Community Center, where children can engage in safe indoor recreation activities including soccer, volleyball and basketball.

City of Fremont-Parks and Recreation Department – A grant was awarded to support the Flash Youth Running Program, which allows children to participate in Cross Country and Track & Field.

East Toledo Family Center – A grant was awarded to purchase equipment that 600 children use for its baseball, soccer and basketball programming that the organization offers throughout the year.

Girls on the Run of Northwest Ohio – A grant was awarded to provide scholarships for girls who cannot afford program participation fees.

Kids Unlimited, Inc. – A grant was awarded to purchase playground equipment to be used by 150 children participating in its after school and summer programming.

Salvation Army, NW Ohio Area Services – A grant was awarded to purchase sports equipment that will be used during the physical education module of the Bridging the Gap Program and in conjunction with activities that are sponsored by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo.

Toledo Ballet Association, Inc. – A grant was awarded to support the Musical Theater Camp that is conducted in partnership with the Catholic Club.

Toledo School for the Arts – A grant was awarded to provide 50 underserved youth with the opportunity to participate in the Urban Dance Program.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Toledo Mud Hens. Click here to view the original story.

Aces Foundation, Jakks Pacific to Donate 15,000 Toys

August 29, 2012

Toys will go to Northern Nevada children’s charities

Kids from Boys and Girls Club of Truckee Meadows Early Learning Program select toys during today's press conference at Aces Ballpark. (David Calvert / Reno Aces) — Kids from Boys and Girls Club of Truckee Meadows Early Learning Program select toys during today’s press conference at Aces Ballpark. (David Calvert / Reno Aces)

For Immediate Release
Aug. 29, 2012

RENO, Nev.–The Reno Aces Foundation, in partnership with leading US toy company JAKKS Pacific, Inc. (Nasdaq: JAKK) will distribute 15,000 toys over the next month to underprivileged and deserving children throughout Northern Nevada, the Reno Aces Baseball Club announced at a press event this morning.

Fisher Cats Staff Gives Back During Holiday Season

December 21, 2011

Manchester, NH – Fisher Cats front office members were in the holiday spirit as they volunteered their time and resources for several community organizations this week. On Thursday, they spent the day volunteering with non-profit organizations for the Fisher Cats Day of Caring. Earlier in the week, the team participated in the Salvation Army’s Adopt-a-Family program, contributing gifts to brighten the holidays of a local family.

“This is one of the most enjoyable weeks for our team every year,” said Rick Brenner, Fisher Cats President. “Getting to work with these organizations on such worthy causes is a privilege for our entire staff. We are honored to be able to partner with them as they enhance the holiday season for so many families.”

The annual Fisher Cats Day of Caring arranges for staff members to spend the day with a non-profit organization each December. This year, some of the staff headed to New Horizons for New Hampshire to assist its staff with the preparation of holiday food deliveries. At the Manchester Animal Shelter, another group helped the morning crew of workers with their daily chores, including walking and feeding dogs and cats and general cleaning around the shelter.

Prior to the Fisher Cats Day of Caring, the entire staff contributed a bundle of gifts as they adopted a family for the holidays. In conjunction with the Salvation Army, staff provided toys, clothing, and Fisher Cats tickets and merchandise to a family in need in southern New Hampshire.

Participation in these programs has been a holiday tradition for the Fisher Cats front office for several years. During that time, the team has worked with several non-profits organizations.

Opening Day is Thursday, April 12, 2012, at 6:35 PM against the New Britain Rock Cats, Double-A affiliate of the Minnesota Twins. Fisher Cats 2012 Mini-Ticket Plans and Season Tickets are on sale now at the Fisher Cats Ticket Office at 1 Line Drive, Manchester, NH 03101, online at www.nhfishercats.com, or by calling the Fisher Cats at 603-641-2005.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Timber Rattlers Celebrate Christmas in July

July 25, 2011

On July 16th, 2011, Time Warner Cable Field was morphed into the North Pole! There was snow on the ground, elves singing Christmas songs, and a festive spirit all around – it was…Christmas in July!

The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers went all out for this theme night; inviting fans and all employees to dress in Christmas attire. The team also invited the Salvation Army to bring their red kettles and ring their bells for donations from fans. In addition to that, we encouraged fans to bring in baked goods for our “Bake Sale” where all proceeds would go to the Salvation Army. All fans that donated an item received our Scooter Versus Snowman bobblehead; the team thought it was rather appropriate. The kettles combined with the bake sale raised an astounding $525 for the Salvation Army!

The team had an usher volunteer to dress up and act as Santa Claus while his daughter volunteered to be Mrs. Claus. A security guard was able to provide the team with a 13 foot Christmas tree to display by our front entrance. Our customer service manager brought in décor for the stadium, lights for the Christmas tree, and costumes for some of the staff to wear.

We also changed up some of our on-field promotions and geared them towards the Christmas theme – rather than Build-A-Burger we had Decorate-A-Tree. Instead of the Mohican North Star Shot we had the Mohican North Star Snowball Shot. And finally, throughout the game, children were allowed to write “letters to the North Pole.” Each child that wrote to Santa received a letter back as well as a ticket voucher for a future game

Akron Aeros Volunteer at Salvation Army in More Ways Than One

July 9, 2011

The Akron Aeros front office staff traveled to The Salvation Army’s Akron Citadel last month, extending their Helping Hands program in the facility’s soup kitchen, pre-school and storage rooms.

The Aeros had the opportunity to see the dynamics of an organization that helps the local community in such diverse ways. The staff assisted with food preparation and dispersion in the soup kitchen, while mingling with those dining and the full-time volunteer staff.

Others assisted at the preschool, helping to prepare and deliver lunches to the kids, while spending quality time before naptime for the children.

The staff also worked behind the scenes, sorting and organizing the Salvation Army’s arts and crafts supplies, donations and records.

“I was able to volunteer on all different ends of the spectrum. You really get a chance to see how dedicated The Salvation Army is to the community. We especially loved spending time with the kids, and they were really enthusiastic. That’s what makes this Helping Hands program so rewarding,” said NICOLE BLUM, Aeros Suites, Picnics and Community Relations Coordinator.

Based on the Christian faith, The Salvation Army aims to fulfill their motto, “Doing the most good,” which was evident to the Aeros staff, who left with a clearer vision of the organization and its purpose. From church services, to after school programs, and providing financial assistance, shelter and free meals, the Salvation Army’s Akron Citadel epitomizes their 135-year-old motto.

Each month, the Akron Aeros front office staff volunteers at locally based organizations as a part of their Helping Hands program. In addition to the Salvation Army, the Aeros plan to assist Akron’s Habitat for Humanity as their next venture.

For information on the Salvation Army and its locations, visit salvationarmyusa.org, and for additional Akron Aeros community outreach efforts, contact Nicole Blum at 330.253.5151 x310 or visit akronaeros.com