Fisher Cats Foundation to Host Charity Golf Classic on June 3

MANCHESTER, N.H. – The Fisher Cats Foundation, the charitable arm of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, announced it will host a charity golf tournament on June 3, 2013, at Stonebridge Country Club in Goffstown. The 18-hole scramble will raise money to benefit the Child Advocacy Center of Hillsborough County, a program of the Granite State Children’s Alliance with locations in Manchester and Nashua.

The tournament will tee off at 9 a.m. at Stonebridge, with registration and a continental breakfast beginning at 8 a.m.  The event will include a shotgun start followed by a lobster and steak lunch, raffle, and awards ceremony.

“The Fisher Cats Foundation is proud to create a new event to benefit such a worthy cause in our community,” said Fisher Cats President Rick Brenner.  “With our great partners at Stonebridge Country Club we look forward to hosting a fun, challenging event that will support children and families in our community.”

“This event is all about creating new ways to support organizations in our community,” said Cheryl Abbott, Executive Director of the Fisher Cats Foundation.  “Golfers will enjoy a fun day on the links while knowing that their participation is helping the Child Advocacy Center of Hillsborough County strengthen the bonds of the families they support.”

“This partnership with the Fisher Cats Foundation is very exciting for our organization,” said Erin McIntyre, Program Director of the CAC of Hillsborough County.  “We are grateful that they see the importance of our community coming together to help child victims of crime and ultimately stop the cycle of violence.”

Registrations are being taken for foursomes for $750. The event will include prizes for low gross and net scores as well as longest drive and closest-to-the-pin contests on the course.

Registration forms are available at www.nhfishercats.com.  Sponsorship opportunities are also available by contacting Megan Shea at mshea@nhfishercats.com or 603-641-2005.  All participants must be registered by Monday, May 13.

The New Hampshire Fisher Cats established the Fisher Cats Foundation to be a catalyst for the betterment of communities statewide by supporting youth programs that encourage education and promote healthy living. Through the generous support of players, employees, sponsors, and fans, the Fisher Cats Foundation continuously works to make a positive impact throughout New Hampshire and north central Massachusetts. As the primary funding source for the team’s philanthropy, the Fisher Cats Foundation supports a wide variety of non-profit organizations and coordinates several fundraising programs and events. Since its inception in 2006, the Foundation and the Fisher Cats have provided  more than $2.5 million in monetary and in-kind donations to over 3,500 non-profit organizations.

The Child Advocacy Center of Hillsborough County (CAC-HC) is a nationally accredited program providing forensic interviews and coordinated support services to child victims of crime and their families free of charge. Since opening their doors in Nashua and Manchester, the Child Advocacy Center of Hillsborough County has provided services to more than 3,500 children. In addition, family advocacy services are provided, children and families are connected to community resources, and the CAC-HC remains a support to families as the criminal case moves through the legal system. The CAC-HC, in partnership with multidisciplinary team members, ensures a less traumatic investigative process, family connection to community resources, and high prosecution rates.

Individual tickets for April and May games for the 2013 10th Anniversary Season are on sale now.  Fans that wish to obtain seats to mid-summer games, as well as great benefits and premium seat selection, can purchase Full and Half-Season Tickets or Mini-Ticket Plans.  Benefits include free birthday parties and monthly barbecues, invitations to exclusive events, and free gifts like ski passes and gift cards.  To see the full list of benefits and gifts with each plan visit www.nhfishercats.com or call (603) 641-2005.  Opening Day at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium is Thursday, April 4 against the Reading Fightin Phils (Philadelphia Phillies) at 6:35 p.m.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Click here to view the original story.

Legends invite non-profits for CON program

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(WHITAKER BANK BALLPARK, Lexington, Ky.) The Lexington Legends are inviting non-profit organizations to participate in their Community Organization of the Night program during the 2013 season.

The Community Organization program offers non-profits a variety of opportunities to publicize their work at Whitaker Bank Ballpark and on Legends radio broadcasts during each of the Legends’ 70 home games. Hundreds of organizations throughout central and eastern Kentucky have participated.

“The Legends place a huge emphasis on being a strong community partner,” said Legends General Manager Seth Poteat. “With that in mind, it’s really the least we can do to open up our facility and allow 70 unique non-profit organizations the opportunity to spread their message and raise awareness among the thousands of Legends fans that come through our gates each year. ”

Organizations may set up a display on the concourse, where they can greet fans and distribute information. Before the game, a representative of each Community Organization of the Night is interviewed on the public address system. The representative also is a guest on the radio broadcast for a half-inning during the game. Each organization receives four complimentary tickets to their game. Solicitation is not permitted.

The Legends have added a fund-raising element to the program for 2013. To maximize exposure and to boost fund-raising, organizations that reserve their night for a Thursday, Friday or Saturday game will purchase a minimum of 50 Legends fundraiser tickets at three dollars each. Fundraiser tickets may then be sold by the organization for up to the regular face value of nine dollars.

“Each organization may keep the funds raised, which could be as much as six dollars per ticket sold,” said Sarah Bosso, the Legends director of community relations and special events. “You’ll have more supporters up in the stands, and you’ll have a fun group out to enjoy a Legends game.”

Game dates will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call (859) 422-7855.

The Legends, a class A affiliate of the Kansas City Royals, will open their home season Monday, April 8 at 7:05 p.m. against the Asheville Tourists, an affiliate of the Colorado Rockies. More information is available at lexingtonlegends.com.

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

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

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

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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.

RiverDogs help out at Windwood Farm Home for Children

Charleston-RiverDogsEach month during the off-season, the Charleston RiverDogs close the office to complete one day of volunteer service with a local nonprofit organization. In February, the Charleston RiverDogs Front Office Staff spent their monthly Staff Volunteer Day with the nonprofit organization Windwood Farm Home for Children. Members of the staff helped to complete various chores around the campus.

“I really enjoyed volunteering at Windwood Farm Home for Children,” says Promotions Intern Haley Kirchner. “The best part was getting to spend time with some of the boys, they were all so great!”

Windwood Farm Home for Children offers Help, Hope and Healing to abused, neglected children and their families.

WIndwood-Family-Services-logoWindwood Farm Home for Children was founded by local philanthropist and businessman, Joseph L. Tamsberg, Jr. and opened its doors in 1985. Every member of the nonprofit organization is actively involved in the growth, and success, of their mission to offer an environment of healing that is geared to stamp out multi-generational child abuse and neglect.

Windwood Farm Home for Children offers therapies geared to increase problem solving, anger management, and frustration tolerance, increase the child’s ability to achieve a successful completion of our program and return to a community living situation. Other services include the Family Reunification program, Family Therapy sessions, and an equine assisted learning program.

The RiverDogs staff helps build a shed at Windwood Farm Home for Children.
The RiverDogs staff helps build a shed at Windwood Farm Home for Children.
Special Events Manager, Kristen Wolfe and Promotions Intern, Haley Kirchner paint during their time volunteering at Windwood Farm Home for Children.
Special Events Manager, Kristen Wolfe and Promotions Intern, Haley Kirchner paint during their time volunteering at Windwood Farm Home for Children.

 

Barons, Children’s of Alabama Launch Babe Ruff’s Kids Club

A portion of the sign up fee benefits Children’s of Alabama

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The Birmingham Barons have announced a partnership with Children’s of Alabama as the title sponsor for the new 2013 kids club at Regions Field, called ‘Babe Ruff’s Kids Club’. A portion of the sign up fee benefits Children’s of Alabama. All members of Babe Ruff’s Kids Club will receive:

  • A Babe Ruff’s Kids’ Club T-Shirt
  • An official membership card and inclusion in the Kids Club Newsletter.
  • Special Kids Club Only prices at the Barons Team Store.
  • A Barons Goodie Bag, which includes items from preferred vendors including a Children’s of Alabama stress ball.
  • Inclusion in special Kids Club events at each Sunday home game.
  • Free Admission to all 11 Sunday home games during the 2013 season.

“Children’s of Alabama is delighted to welcome the Birmingham Barons to the neighborhood,” said Garland Stansell, Chief Communications Officer for Children’s of Alabama. “We are excited about the proximity of Regions Field to our campus and are equally excited to continue our long-time partnership with the Barons.  Babe Ruff’s Kids Club seems the perfect fit with our child and family-centered mission.”

“The Barons are excited to partner with Children’s of Alabama on this venture,” said Barons General Manager Jonathan Nelson. “The Barons have always been dedicated to providing the most affordable family entertainment in Birmingham and the kids club is an integral part of that goal. We look forward to providing families with a first class entertainment experience at Regions Field this season.”

To register visit Barons.com, fill out the registration form located on the kid’s club page and bring it to Regions Field. Fans can also contact Steve Bayko at sbayko@barons.com or by phone at 205-988-3200.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Birmingham Barons. Click here to view the original story.

Community Corner returns for 2013

Osprey recognize non-profit organizations in Western MT

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The Missoula Osprey announced today that the Staybridge Suites/Missoula Independent Community Corner that recognizes the impact of local non-profits in Western Montana will return for the 2013 season.

For every regular season home game, Staybridge Suites, the Missoula Independent and the Osprey team-up to donate 20 tickets to qualified non-profit organizations.

The tickets can be used by volunteers, sponsors, staff, or those that benefit from the organization’s efforts. Due to the popularity of the program, Community Corner tickets are only available on a first come, first served basis.

“The Community Corner is one of the many great programs we are able to offer to non-profits,” said Osprey Vice President/General Manager Jeff Griffin. “With the help of our corporate partners, we are able to recognize the work of local non-profits in our community. The efforts of these groups are one of the many things that make Missoula a very special place to call home.”

Community Corner requests must be made in writing to Griffin on the non-profit organization’s leatherhead by the director of each group. Requests may be mailed to 140 N. Higgins, or e-mailed to jgriffin@missoulaosprey.com.

The 2013 home opener for the Osprey is slated for Thursday, June 20 versus the Helena Brewers.

Season ticket packages are available for purchase by contacting an Osprey ticket representative at 543-3300, at the MSO Hub Box Office at 140 N. Higgins or on the web at MissoulaOsprey.com

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

Drillers Starting Make-A-Difference Mondays Program

Kids and families in need to attend selected Monday games free of charge

McElroy Make-A-Difference Mondays will provide nights out at ONEOK Field in downtown Tulsa for needy kids and families this season.
McElroy Make-A-Difference Mondays will provide nights out at ONEOK Field in downtown Tulsa for needy kids and families this season.

Monday evening games will take on a special meaning this season at ONEOK Field. The Tulsa Drillers Foundation has announced a partnership with McElroy Manufacturing that will feature a new program titled “McElroy Make-A-Difference Mondays.”

The six Monday night games of the 2013 season will give Tulsa area children and families in need the opportunity to attend games at no cost. McElroy Manufacturing, through its partnership, will provide complimentary Drillers Dogs and soft drinks for all kids and parents that attend a Monday game as part of the program.

“We are excited to be able to offer this program,” said Drillers General Manager Mike Melega. “Many of us grew up attending games with our parents and grandparents, and the memories can last a lifetime, yet we realize that there are many young fans that may never get the chance to attend a game at ONEOK Field. With the help of McElroy and other companies, we can now give these kids an opportunity to enjoy an evening out and a chance to experience downtown Tulsa and make memories of their own.”

ONEOK, Tulsa Federal Credit Union and Clinical Profusion Systems have also joined the Tulsa Drillers Foundation in the Make-A-Difference program as ticket sponsors. Any company or individual interested in helping to underwrite tickets for those in need can contact Kara Biden with the Drillers at (918)744-5901.

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

2013 Grant Beneficiaries Announced

Lehigh-Valley-IronPigsIronPigs 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.”

IronPigs-Charities-LogoOne 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.

Community Organization of the Night Program Filled for 2013

All 72 Slots for 2013 Season Booked in 6 ½ Business Days

MOOSIC, Pa. – The public said it wanted to be involved with the new PNC Field. The depths of that yearning are still being realized. The Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders’ Community Organization of the Night Program was announced just last week. In 6 ½ business days, all 72 available nights were claimed by non-profit groups that benefit NEPA.

The 72 non-profit groups, one for each home game, will receive a tip of the cap and more throughout the 2013 season. The groups chosen will own the night on the front porch of NEPA. In addition to receiving four free field reserve seats, each group will also have a concourse table allowing it to pass out information on its organization and cause. Beyond that personal face-to-face time, each group will be have a live pre-game interview on the field that will be shown to all in attendance on PNC Field’s state-of-the-art video board. The message will be further spread with a live in-game interview on the RailRiders’ radio broadcast.

“From the minute we officially released the program, my phone has been ringing off the hook with the wonderful non-profit organizations of Northeast Pennsylvania,” said the team’s community relations manager Ryan Beardsley. “I’m so proud we can provide a service such as this to our local non-profit agencies that work tirelessly and selflessly to improve the lives of others.”

The Community Organization of the Night receives other perks like a ceremonial first pitch, its logo getting some time to shine on the video board and most of all, the chance to interact with the very folks touched by its efforts.

The RailRiders’ 2013 season gets underway with the grand opening of a reconstructed PNC Field on April 4 when the defending IL champion Pawtucket Red Sox come to town for a rematch of their 2012 playoff clash with SWB. It will mark the first “Thirsty Thursday” promotion of the year with $1 beer specials and $1 Pepsi products along with a pre-game live band performance and post-game fireworks. Club seating, partial and full-season ticket plans are now available.

– SWB RailRiders – All Aboard! –

 

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees. Click here to view the original story.

Drive Give Back Through United Way

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The Drive’s mission and goals go deeper than simply providing a postive entertainment experience. The Drive brand has been built around a commitment to being a part of the fabric of the community, and that community includes many individuals who rarely ever have the opportunity to enjoy the fun of a game at Fluor Field.

All around the ballpark and across Greenville, there are children and adults who face quality of life challenges as fundamental as having the basic physical necessities and emotional support then need to even begin to enjoy life.

One very meaningful and important way that the Drive demonstrates our concern for our Community, beyond the fences of Fluor Field, is through the United Way. The United Way is a vital source of financial support for numerous charitable organizations who meet critical needs in the lives of people here in Greenville County, many of whom live right in our own neighborhood.

Once again, the Drive front office is participating in the United Way of Greenville County’s fundraising campaign. Please watch the video below, and consider making a pledge to the United Way of Greenville County by clicking here.

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

‘4 in 24’ youth field renovations set for April 12

BlueShield of Northeastern New York partners with ‘Cats on Community Grounds Crew

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TROY, NY- As the Tri-City ValleyCats prepare to usher in a new season of affordable family fun and professional baseball to the Capital Region, they will be teaming up once again with BlueShield of Northeastern New York on the Community Grounds Crew and the 3rd Annual ‘4 in 24’ Youth Field Renovation Program. In a 24 hour time period, four chosen youth fields will have new sod placed on their infield while also seeing their pitcher’s mound and homeplate areas rebuilt. The simultaneous renovations are scheduled to take place on Friday, April 12.

The ‘4 in 24′ is the kick-off event for the Community Grounds Crew, an expanded initiative with the assistance from BlueShield of Northeastern New York. This program will undertake additional projects and renovations on numerous other youth fields throughout the spring and summer.

“The ValleyCats are proud to be partnering once again with BlueShield of Northeastern New York to continue the work of our Community Grounds Crew,” said ValleyCats Vice President/General Manager Rick Murphy. “With their tremendous support, we are able to provide the youth in our community safe and well-maintained fields on which to play, and as ambassadors for the game of baseball, that is immensely important to us.”

Following the formation of the Community Grounds Crew last spring, over a dozen youth ball fields have been fully renovated with countless other field projects completed throughout the Capital Region.

“BlueShield is excited to support the important field renovations throughout our community again this year,” Brian O’Grady, vice president, BlueShield of Northeastern New York, said. “We have seen the impact of tremendously improving the quality of these spaces for children to enjoy one of our country’s favorite past times. Our company takes pride in encouraging children to get outside and play with their friends because as we all know- Healthy Changes Everything.”

The ValleyCats’ field renovations have been an annual tradition since 2003 when the first field was officially renovated by the ‘Cats in South Troy, just one mile away from Joseph L. Bruno Stadium. Each year since, they have expanded upon its success. In 2011 the ‘Cats created the ambitious ‘4 in 24’ project to renovate four youth playing fields in the course of just a 24 hour time period, something totally unique to any field renovation initiative in the country.

Each project is also supported by the New York-Penn League Charitable Foundation. Contributions come from past events such as the Capital Region Craft Brewers Festival, hosted by the ValleyCats and Brown’s Brewing Company, and the Corporate Cup Tournaments which have included teams from local and regional businesses.

Leagues interested in having their field considered for the ‘4 in 24’ or other Community Grounds Crew renovations must complete an application that can be found on the ValleyCats website, www.tcvalleycats.com. In order to be eligible for the ‘4 in 24’ renovation, applications must be returned by Friday, February 22. Those submitted beyond that date or not selected for the ‘4 in 24’ will remain in consideration for the Community Grounds Crew program, which will accept and evaluate applications on an on-going basis.

This article originally appeared on the official website of the Tri-City ValleyCats. Click here to view the original story.

66ers Partner with Joe Baca Foundation to Host Free Baseball Clinic & Little League Sign-Up

San Manuel Stadium Will Be Site of Open Baseball Clinic

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San Bernardino, CA– The Inland Empire 66ers and the Joe Baca Foundation will be hosting a free baseball clinic at San Manuel Stadium on January 12, 2013 from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. The festivities will also include the District 43 little league sign-ups. This will be the first year that this event has been put on, all in an effort to encourage little league participation as well as a fun and educational clinic for baseball and softball players ages 4 – 18. Participants in the clinic do not have to sign up for little league. This is an open clinic for all children.

This event will mark the first community function that the Inland Empire 66ers are holding in 2013. The team’s mascot, Bernie, will make an appearance and there will be inflatables set up for children to play in. Children of all levels will be able to participate in the clinic and enjoy drills that are based on their individual skill levels.

66ers Community Relations Manager, Kelsey Beckenbach-English stated, “The 66ers and local little leagues have had a strong partnership since the team was known as the Spirit and played their games at Fiscalini Field. Every year, we assist local teams and leagues in their fundraising efforts and we hope that with this free community event, we will be able to assist in the increase of participation for their 2013 season.”

The Joe Baca Foundation’s mission is to “build a better future…for our children.” These types of clinics allow them to meet their goal of emphasizing physical health and teaching the basic fundamentals of baseball to under-served youth in our communities.

The little league sign-ups for District 43 as well as several other Inland Empire little league districts, will take place from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. For more information on this exciting day, please contact Inland Empire 66ers Community Relations Manager, Kelsey Beckenbach-English at 909-495-7658 or via e-mail at kelsey@66ers.com.

More information can be found by visiting www.district43.org or www.facebook.com/district43.

The 2013 season will kick off on Thursday April 4, 2013 at San Manuel Stadium when the 66ers take on the Modesto Nuts. Inland Empire fans can now purchase season ticket and group packages for the 2013 season. Tickets can be purchased by calling 909-888-9922. Additional information is available online at www.66ers.com. For more information on the Inland Empire 66ers please contact Joey Seymour, Director of Ticket Operations and Media Relations, at 909-495-7638.
This article originally appeared on the official website of the Inland Empire 66ers. Click here to view the original story.

RiverDogs volunteer with Crisis Ministries

Charleston-RiverDogsEach month during the off-season, the Charleston RiverDogs close the office to complete one day of volunteer service with a local nonprofit organization. In November, the Charleston RiverDogs Front Office Staff spent their monthly Staff Volunteer Day with the nonprofit organization Crisis Ministries. Members of the staff prepared and served nutritious meals to guests of the shelter.

“I really enjoyed our time at Crisis Ministries,” says RiverDogs Special Events Manager Kristen Wolfe. “It was a very humbling experience.”

Crisis-Ministries-Charleston-logoFounded in 1984, Crisis Ministries has evolved into a comprehensive service agency with the mission to provide food, shelter and hope to end homelessness and hunger one person at a time, one family at a time.

Along with serving a daily meal to community members in need, Crisis Ministries’ services include emergency housing, case management, primary health care, legal services, employment services, and Veteran services. Crisis Ministries is the largest homeless service provider in South Carolina. Since its founding Crisis Ministries has served over 1,800,000 meals, sheltered over 37,500 people, and helped more than 6,250 homeless men and women become self-sufficient.

RiverDogs staff helping prepare nutritious meals to serve to guests of Crisis Ministries.
RiverDogs staff helping prepare nutritious meals to serve to guests of Crisis Ministries.

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

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.

Our visit to Feed My Starving Children

The Kane County Cougars front office staff has been fortunate to send their staff to do a 2-hour shift at Feed My Starving Children in Aurora, which is about 20 minutes from their ballpark in Geneva. FMSC is a non-profit Christian organization that relies on volunteers to hand-pack meals specifically formulated for malnourished children. Those meals go to nearly 70 countries around the world.

The photo below shows how many meals Cougars staff packed during their shift. FMSC has several locations. It’s an incredibly fun atmosphere. Everyone has a role in the packing process – some are pouring the ingredients into the bag, others are weighing the items, others are boxing up the meals and placing the boxes in their warehouse. Upbeat music is playing the entire time and it really builds up a sense of camaraderie among our staff who are offering their time. We’d encourage any other minor league team to see if they are close to a FMSC, and have their staff and players volunteer to help.

Oftentimes during the busy portion of the season, it’s tough for our staff to simply be around each other, outside of the ballpark. These monthly initiatives we’ve set up really build team morale among our staff. More importantly, the giving of our time for these causes and seeing the impact we can make in the community (and in the case of FMSC, the world), it’s incredibly rewarding.