major league baseball
Transcription
major league baseball
OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL Dear Friends and Colleagues, Baseball is a historic institution beloved around the globe. All of us at Major League Baseball are ever-cognizant that it is a privilege for our game to have such significant stature in the communities of our fans. Major League Baseball’s 2013 Community Affairs Report illustrates our sport’s unwavering commitment to giving back. The 30 Clubs of Major League Baseball have devoted countless resources to making a difference in the lives of many fans and in our society as a whole. Many people throughout the baseball family use remarkable passion and creativity in helping worthy organizations and individuals in need. Locally, our Clubs support important causes every day. Together, all of us in the game share bonds with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Stand Up To Cancer and many other national partners that are accomplishing extraordinary work. The national pastime is honored to contribute to the success of their missions. Our sport’s greatest pioneer, Jackie Robinson, once said, “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.” Inspired by those words, Major League Baseball will always strive to meet its many essential social responsibilities. I have the utmost professional pride in all of the efforts illustrated in Major League Baseball’s 2013 Community Affairs Report, and it is our privilege to reach our fans and their communities in meaningful ways. Sincerely, Allan H. (Bud) Selig Commissioner of Baseball Hurricane Sandy, the second-costliest hurricane in United States history, struck the Northeastern United States on October 29, 2012, resulting in deaths in eight states and over $71 billion in damages. Millions were left without power, and thousands of homes were destroyed. Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association joined together to donate $1 million to the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army and Feeding America to assist emergency relief efforts in the most devastated areas along the East Coast affected by Hurricane Sandy. Additionally, MLB worked closely with all 30 Clubs to encourage baseball fans to support the efforts via public service announcements, programming mentions and editorial coverage on MLB Network and MLB.com. A special auction featuring donations from all 30 Clubs raised additional funds. MLB Network also featured on-air mentions during instudio programming and signage visibility for the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army and Feeding America. MLB.com, the official website of Major League Baseball, also supported relief efforts with editorial coverage, social media outreach and prominently-displayed links to the aforementioned organizations. The League offices, along with several Clubs, organized food and clothing drives and donated MLB apparel and non-perishable food, baby food, personal hygiene items and cleaning supplies, all of which were delivered within three weeks of the storm to Far Rockaway in New York and Hoboken and Neptune in New Jersey. 2 MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 T he year 2012 marked the 20th anniversary of the annual Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) World Series. RBI is the Major League Baseball youth initiative designed to provide underserved youth with an opportunity to play baseball and softball, promote character development, encourage academic success, and teach the value of teamwork. MLB supports RBI leagues by providing resources that help reduce the cost of playing baseball and softball. Also provided are resources that allow the local RBI programs to impact the lives of players off the field. Important partners that support RBI nationally include The Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation, Majestic, Head & Shoulders, Rawlings, Phiten, Brax, Gatorade, Outdoor Cap, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, New Balance, The Partnership @ Drugfree.org and Louisville Slugger. The RBI World Series is the jewel event of the 13-18 year old baseball and softball competitive tournament divisions of the Major League Baseball RBI program. Eight regional tournaments that were held in the U.S. and the Caribbean determined the 24 teams that advanced to the World Series. In 2012, more than 300 RBI programs in more than 200 cities worldwide provided baseball and softball opportunities to more than 200,000 youths ages 5-18. The 2012 RBI World Series was hosted by the Minnesota Twins in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota. To launch the anniversary celebration, Commissioner Selig welcomed the 2012 baseball division participants to the World Series during the opening luncheon held in the Carew Atrium at Target Field, home of the Minnesota Twins. Joining the Commissioner were Hall of Fame players Rod Carew, Bert Blyleven, and Paul Molitor. Other World Series activities included a day of service component in which all participating teams volunteered at Minneapolis/St. Paul area charities. Three-time Olympic gold medalist Gail Devers also served as the keynote speaker for the softball closing banquet. The Junior and Senior Baseball divisions of the RBI World Series were played with preliminary round games at Neiman Athletic Complex, Parade Stadium and Toni Stone Stadium. The championship games for both divisions were played at Target Field. RBI Dominicana won the Junior Baseball Division championship, defeating the Chicago White Sox RBI program. This was the third consecutive Junior Division championship for Santo Domingo. Jackie Robinson RBI of Jersey City, New Jersey, defeated Bradenton RBI of Bradenton, Florida to win the Senior Baseball Division championship, broadcast live on MLB Network. This was the first time both leagues were represented in the championship game. RBI Dominicana also claimed the softball championship by defeating Harrisburg RBI at Jane Sage Cowles Stadium at the University of Minnesota. This was RBI Dominicana’s first championship since 2008 and their second RBI World Series softball title. For more information, visit MLB.com/rbi. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 3 E ntering its 16th year of partnership in 2012, Major League Baseball and Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) continued to create unique opportunities for the nearly four million boys and girls served by Boys & Girls Clubs around the world. Major League Baseball provides millions of dollars in exposure to Boys and Girls Clubs through player supported PSAs, TV announcements, behind-home-plate signage and on MLB web pages. These efforts are highlighted during MLB All-Star Week and include field builds and renovations, building and room refurbishments, and the planting of community gardens. The partnership includes a contribution by Major League Baseball to BGCA to underwrite the cost of implementing WANNA PLAY?, a health and fitness program to help young people become active and fit. Major League Baseball also supports nearly 100 Boys & Girls Clubs Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) (ages 13-18) and Jr. RBI (ages 5-12) programs reaching nearly 65,000 youth. SUPPORTING YOUTH 4 Current and former Major League Baseball players who were members of Boys & Girls Clubs include Alex Rodriguez, Jimmy Rollins, CC Sabathia and Baseball Hall of Famers Joe Morgan and Frank Robinson. For more than 100 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of America has enabled young people most in need to achieve great futures as productive, caring, responsible citizens. BGCA’s national network of more than 4,000 neighborhood-based facilities annually serves nearly four million young people primarily from disadvantaged circumstances in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands as well as domestic and international military bases. Known as the “Positive Place for Kids,” the Clubs’ full and part-time trained professional staff and volunteers conduct programs that promote academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles. Visit greatfutures.org for more information. S ince 2007, Major League Baseball has partnered with the Hank Aaron Chasing the Dream Foundation and Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) to provide financial support to help talented young people pursue their dreams. The Chasing the Dream grants provide ongoing financial assistance to youth with proven talent and strong academic achievement to help them develop their talents and achieve their goals. The program annually distributes up to 44 grants of up to $2,500 each in honor of Hank Aaron’s legendary number 44 jersey to BGCA members across the country and on military bases around the world. These youth make sacrifices to rise above difficult circumstances to follow their passions. The program provides opportunities to perform in front of new audiences, practice with professionals, purchase equipment, inspire and be inspired. For more information, visit MLBcommunity.org. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 Selig created The Commissioner’s Community Initiative to provide tickets throughout the baseball season to those who might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience the thrill of attending a Major League Baseball game. MLB Clubs have distributed more than 11 million tickets since the program’s inception in 2004, including nearly 1.6 million throughout the 2012 regular season. For more information, visit MLBCommunity.org. I n 2012, Major League Baseball once again partnered with the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) to implement the MLB & Players Give Back program to distribute tickets to children, charities supported by the MLBPA and those community and civic groups whose members would not usually have a chance to attend a Major League Baseball game. Since its inception in 2009, MLB Clubs have distributed nearly four million tickets through this program, including almost 900,000 in 2012. For more information, visit MLBCommunity.org. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 SUPPORTING YOUTH Commissioner 5 S tand Up To Cancer (SU2C) is a grassroots movement with the goal of ending cancer’s reign as a leading cause of death. Stand Up To Cancer is working hard to get new therapies to patients by encouraging collaboration instead of competition. To that end, Stand Up To Cancer brings together the best and brightest scientists from different disciplines at research centers around the world to work together to address critical issues in patient care. The 2012 Winter Meetings introduced another League-wide Stand Up To Cancer tribute. Led by PR Directors from all 30 Clubs and inspired by the baseball public relations officials and Club executives who are bravely fighting cancer, the Meetings featured a Stand Up To Cancer signing wall with representatives from across the League demonstrating their support with SU2C tribute placards and an unprecedented online auction that offered fans rare Baseball experiences. The tribute raised over $150,000 for SU2C. HEALTH 6 Major League Baseball and its 30 Clubs have donated more than $30 million to SU2C to fund groundbreaking translational research that delivers new therapies to cancer patients. As a founding donor, MLB has conducted significant awarenessbuilding efforts for Stand Up To Cancer through public service announcements, in-stadium promotions and fundraising events, and has dedicated one World Series game to the initiative for each of the past three years. For more information, please visit MLB.com/SU2C. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 Going To Bat Against Breast Cancer F or the eighth consecutive year, Major League Baseball has been “Going To Bat Against Breast Cancer”. On Mother’s Day, hundreds of MLB players used pink Louisville Slugger bats stamped with the MLB breast cancer awareness logo. To further demonstrate their support for the breast cancer cause, players and on-field personnel wore the symbolic pink ribbon on their uniforms, pink wrist bands and other pink ribbon branded items. Commemorative dugout lineup cards also carried the pink ribbon logo. Game-used items including pink bats from Mother’s Day games were auctioned exclusively on MLB.com to raise additional funds for breast cancer research. HEALTH Through the fourth annual Honorary Bat Girl Contest, MLB and all 30 Clubs recognized fans who are “Going To Bat Against Breast Cancer” in their daily lives. One fan of each MLB Club was selected to serve as an “Honorary Bat Girl” for the special Mother’s Day games. Nine-time Grammy Award winner Bonnie Raitt, who lost her brother and close friends to cancer, recorded a special video at the MLB Fan Cave to lend her support to the Honorary Bat Girl initiative and the ongoing fight to eradicate the disease. For more information, visit MLBCommunity.org. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 7 Father’s Day Home Run Challenge T he annual “Home Run Challenge” returned in 2012 for the 16th year to support the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF). For each home run hit during 75 select MLB games leading up to and including Father’s Day, fans made monetary donations and pledges to PCF. The initiative helps increase awareness of prostate cancer and has raised more than $40 million for prostate cancer research. On Father’s Day, on-field personnel, including players, managers, coaches, trainers, umpires and groundskeepers wore blue wristbands and blue ribbon uniform decals symbolizing prostate cancer awareness. The blue ribbon logo also appeared on the official dugout lineup cards, which were also blue. All Major League Baseball games played on Father’s Day communicated valuable health information about prostate cancer. HEALTH 8 The Prostate Cancer Foundation is the world’s leading philanthropic organization funding and accelerating research. Founded in 1993, PCF has raised more than $500 million and provided funding to over 1,600 research projects at nearly 200 institutions worldwide in 15 countries around the world. PCF advocates for greater awareness of prostate cancer and more efficient investment of governmental research funds supporting transformational cancer research. More information about PCF can be found at pcf.org. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 Major League Baseball began work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on two important campaigns in 2012. During the Winter/Spring the CDC’s flu campaign was featured on the MLB Community page on MLB.com with the posting of the CDC flu web-banner. Fans were able to click on the banner and get key information about flu symptoms, prevention and treatment. MLB also supports the CDC’s Heads Up: Concussion in Youth Sports initiative which offers important information on preventing, recognizing, and responding to a concussion for coaches, parents, and athletes. For more information, visit cdc.org In 2012, Major League Baseball continued its League-wide support of the 4•ALS initiative, in partnership with leading nonprofit ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) organizations dedicated to raising funds and awareness to fight the disease. Commonly referred to as “Lou Gehrig’s disease” – for the Hall of Famer who died from ALS in 1941 at the age of 37 – this deadly disease destroys the nerve cells controlling muscles, and ultimately causes complete paralysis. Launched by Major League Baseball in 2009, 4•ALS continues to grow with ongoing support from all 30 Clubs. For more information, visit MLBCommunity.org. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 HEALTH For the 14th year, Major League Baseball and the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) helped Clubs, players and fans “Play Sun Smart.” Play Sun SmartTM is a leaguewide initiative designed to raise awareness about the importance of sun safety and skin cancer prevention. In addition to promoting the sun safety message, the program provides skin cancer screenings for all 30 MLB Clubs – players, on-field personnel and off-field personnel. Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench, a skin cancer survivor, served as MLB’s 2012 Play Sun Smart national spokesperson. For more information, visit MLBCommunity.org. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • TM • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Since 2004, through the Professional Baseball Athletic Trainers Society (PBATS), P.L.A.Y. has used the celebrity appeal of Major League Baseball, its teams and players to promote a healthy and active lifestyle for youth. P.L.A.Y. educates kids about the dangers of appearance and performance-enhancing drugs (APEDs) and addresses the growing epidemic of childhood obesity. PBATS teams with the Taylor Hooton Foundation to reinforce its messages. In 2012, P.L.A.Y. events for children ages 8-17 took place in 29 MLB ballparks, as well as four MiLB ballparks. For more information, visit pbats.com. 9 O n April 15, Major League Baseball commemorated Jackie Robinson Day throughout the League, both on and off the field. All players and on-field personnel paid tribute to the legendary barrier breaker by wearing number 42. Clubs observed Jackie Robinson Day with special pregame ceremonies in their ballparks and featured Jackie Robinson Day jeweled bases and lineup cards, and a special video that highlighted Jackie’s story and his nine values. To commemorate Jackie Robinson Day on April 15, the Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) program hosted a youth baseball and softball clinic at Macombs Dam Park across from Yankee Stadium for 200 boys and girls ages 6-15 from the greater New York City area RBI leagues. The event featured Jackie’s daughter, Sharon, Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson, representatives and players from the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim; former MLB players; MLB Network Analyst Harold Reynolds; MLB executives and the Commissioner of the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation. The 2012 season welcomed a new national public service announcement voiced by Hall of Fame broadcaster Vin Scully and featuring several MLB All-Stars and legends, including Matt Kemp, Mariano Rivera, Ichiro Suzuki, Ozzie Smith, Frank Robinson, Hank Aaron, Willie Mays and Jackie Robinson. MLB LEGENDS Commissioner Selig and MLB celebrated Robinson’s longstanding legacy by retiring Robinson’s number throughout the League in 1997, and since 2004, MLB has dedicated April 15 as Jackie Robinson Day in his memory. Robinson played his first Major League game at Ebbets Field on April 15, 1947 as a first baseman for the Brooklyn Dodgers. 10 MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 Breaking Barriers has reached more than 22 million youth and 2.9 million educators in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. For more information, visit MLB.com/breakingbarriers. Jackie Robinson Foundation (JRF) Scholars visited the Major League Baseball Network as part of the Foundation’s annual networking weekend, which culminated with the Foundation’s Annual Awards Dinner. The scholars received a tour, had lunch and participated in a Q&A with MLB Network talent. The Jackie Robinson Foundation, named in honor of the legendary sporting and civil rights icon, provided scholarships in 2012 for more than 200 students enrolled in 90 colleges and universities around the nation. MLB and the 30 Clubs sponsored more than 75 Jackie Robinson Scholars. The Foundation strives to cultivate future leaders who will be ambassadors of Jackie Robinson’s guiding life tenet, “A life is not important except in its impact on other lives.” Major League Baseball and its Clubs are longstanding supporters of the Jackie Robinson Foundation. For more information, visit jackierobinson.org. MLB LEGENDS program developed by Major League Baseball, Scholastic Inc., and Sharon Robinson, Jackie Robinson’s daughter. The program, in its 16th year, features an essay contest that invites students to submit an essay about barriers or obstacles they have faced or are facing in their lives, and how they used the nine values - commitment, citizenship, courage, determination, excellence, justice, persistence, teamwork and integrity demonstrated by Jackie Robinson to deal with those obstacles. In 2012, Major League Baseball and Scholastic also expanded the Breaking Barriers Program to include 9th graders. Major League Baseball and Scholastic announced Raeya Ponugoti from Indianapolis, Indiana as the Grand Prize winner from the 4th through 8th grade group, and Peter Hanhan from Valrico, Florida as the inaugural ninth-grade Grand Prize winner. Both essays were selected from approximately 6,000 entries. Grand and first prize winners received a variety of prizes, including a laptop computer. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Breaking Barriers: In Sports, In Life is a national character education MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 11 Major League Baseball and its Clubs annually celebrate Roberto Clemente Day to honor the memory of Roberto Clemente and to recognize each Club’s nominee of the Roberto Clemente Award presented by Chevrolet. Each Club conducted an on-field award presentation for its local Clemente Award nominee. The 30 Club nominees for the 2012 Roberto Clemente Award presented by Chevrolet featured nine players selected for the 2012 MLB All-Star Game: MLB LEGENDS 12 Arizona Diamondbacks – Willie Bloomquist Atlanta Braves – Tim Hudson Baltimore Orioles – Jim Johnson* Boston Red Sox – Jon Lester Chicago Cubs – David DeJesus Chicago White Sox – Jake Peavy* Cincinnati Reds – Todd Frazier Cleveland Indians – Jason Kipnis Colorado Rockies – Michael Cuddyer Detroit Tigers – Miguel Cabrera* Houston Astros – Wesley Wright Kansas City Royals – Alex Gordon Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim – C.J. Wilson* Los Angeles Dodgers – Clayton Kershaw* Miami Marlins – Logan Morrison Milwaukee Brewers – Rickie Weeks Minnesota Twins – Justin Morneau New York Mets – Johan Santana New York Yankees – Mark Teixeira Oakland Athletics – Brandon McCarthy Philadelphia Phillies – Jimmy Rollins Pittsburgh Pirates – Chris Resop St. Louis Cardinals – Matt Holliday* San Diego Padres – Luke Gregerson San Francisco Giants – Matt Cain* Seattle Mariners – Felix Hernandez* Tampa Bay Rays – David Price* Texas Rangers – Michael Young Toronto Blue Jays – Ricky Romero Washington Nationals – Ryan Zimmerman *2012 MLB All-Star MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 1984 1983 1982 1981 1980 1979 1978 1977 1976 1975 1974 1973 1972 1971 Clayton KershawDodgers David OrtizRed Sox Tim WakefieldRed Sox Derek Jeter Yankees Albert PujolsCardinals Craig BiggioAstros Carlos DelgadoMets John SmoltzBraves Edgar MartinezMariners Jamie MoyerMariners Jim ThomeIndians Curt Schilling Diamondbacks Al Leiter Mets Tony Gwynn*Padres Sammy SosaCubs Eric DavisOrioles Kirby Puckett* Twins Ozzie Smith* Cardinals Dave Winfield* Twins Barry Larkin* Reds Cal Ripken Jr.* Orioles Harold ReynoldsMariners Dave Stewart Athletics Gary Carter* Mets Dale Murphy Braves Rick Sutcliffe Cubs Garry Maddox Phillies Don Baylor Yankees Ron Guidry Yankees Cecil Cooper Brewers Ken Singleton Orioles Steve Garvey Dodgers Phil Niekro* Braves Andre ThorntonIndians Greg Luzinski Phillies Rod Carew* Twins Pete Rose Reds Lou Brock* Cardinals Willie Stargell* Pirates Al Kaline* Tigers Brooks Robinson*Orioles Willie Mays* Giants * Member of Baseball Hall of Fame (HOF) Clayton Kershaw of the Los Angeles Dodgers was announced as the winner of the 2012 Roberto Clemente Award presented by Chevrolet at the 2012 World Series. The Award was named for the 15time All-Star and Baseball Hall of Famer who died in a plane crash on New Year’s Eve 1972 while attempting to deliver relief supplies to earthquake victims in Nicaragua. The Award recognizes the Major League Baseball player who best represents Clemente’s legacy and the game of baseball through positive contributions on and off the field. Clayton and his wife, Ellen, founded Kershaw’s Challenge, a charitable organization that encourages people to make a difference by giving back to at-risk children and communities in need. The charity has provided assistance to a variety of organizations, including to its cornerstone charity, “Arise Africa,” which is helping the Kershaws build and sustain an orphanage for children in Lusaka, Zambia called “Hope’s Home.” In addition to providing a safe haven for orphans, Kershaw’s Challenge also seeks to create an emergency fund for the children, many of whom suffer from diseases and infections related to HIV and AIDS. Each year, Kershaw and his wife travel to the orphanage to visit with the children and bring awareness to this issue. He has also co-written a book with Ellen, released in January 2012, entitled, “Arise: Live Out Your Faith and Dreams on Whatever Field You Find Yourself,” which is about their life together and trips to Africa. Money raised from the book’s proceeds goes directly to Kershaw’s Challenge for Hope’s Home. In addition to Hope’s Home, Kershaw’s Challenge has also supported the Peacock Foundation in Los Angeles, which provides animal-assisted interventions and activities for at-risk youth by partnering with mental health practitioners, public service agencies, and community organizations. Kershaw’s Challenge is also involved with Mercy Street in his hometown of Dallas, Texas, providing mentoring, sports and recreation, vocational and educational opportunities to young people in at-risk communities. For more information, visit MLBCommunity.org. MLB LEGENDS PREVIOUS NATIONAL WINNERS MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 13 YOUTH BASEBALL & SOFTBALL 14 Founded in 2006, the Urban Youth Academy in Compton, California, has seen nearly 350 players receive college scholarships and over 100 players drafted. In addition, the Cincinnati Reds Urban Youth Academy will continue to grow, and the launch of the Washington Nationals Urban Youth Academy is being planned. Additional Academies are located in Houston, Gurabo, Puerto Rico, and New Orleans. In 2013, the Philadelphia Phillies MLB Urban Youth Academy is due to open, and the groundbreaking in Hialeah, Florida for the Miami-area Urban Youth Academy is set to take place. In addition to constant baseball and softball instruction through daily practices, workouts, camps, and clinics, the Academy enrolls players in scholastic tutoring and conducts free community events such as MLB Umpire Camps, coaching clinics, field maintenance seminars, and community fundraisers. The Breakthrough Series is a joint effort on the part of Major League Baseball and USA Baseball to promote the involvement and encourage the participation of urban youth in the game of baseball. With a goal of providing minority youths with professional or collegiate opportunities, the Breakthrough Series strives to showcase underexposed high school players that may not have the resources to participate in showcase events or travel competition. Established in 2008, the event has seen over 35% of participants through 2011 drafted. In 2012, three event alumni were drafted in the first round. The event, hosted by USA Baseball at the National Training Center in Cary, NC, invited over 80 high school players from 21 states, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Over 50 professional scouts and college recruiters attended the fourday event. Players experienced daily presentations from scouts, umpires and executives. The 6th annual Urban Invitational tournament, a collegiate baseball event that highlights Historically Black Colleges and Universities, took place in 2012. For the first time the event expanded to six programs and was held in a Major League stadium, Minute Maid Park, the home of the Houston Astros. In addition to the three days of games, the event included a college fair, battle of the bands, musical performances, and two games broadcast on MLB Network. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 T 2012 RBI for RBI Scholarship Recipients NAME Ta’Juan Dutrieville Jacob Gavel Shannon Grant Sixto Guerrero Aaron Lavergne Drexel Lindsey Jeremy Martinez Chineka Mckinnie Raven Mosleley Alexis Padilla Quincee Sylvester Jayla Vega LEAGUE BGC of Western PA /Pirates RBI KCK RBI (KS) Phillies RBI Bradenton RBI (FL) Houston RBI Miami RBI NY Sandlot RBI (NYC) Tampa RBI Miami RBI Houston RBI Tampa RBI Hoboken RBI SCHOOL Slippery Rock University Missouri State University Kutztown University University of Central Florida University of Louisiana Lafayette University of Oregon Monroe College Florida Gulf Coast University Florida A&M University Paris (TX) Jr. College University of South Florida Farleigh Dickenson University MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 YOUTH BASEBALL & SOFTBALL he RBI for RBI Scholarship program provides four-year annual scholarships of up to $5,000 (totaling $20,000 each) to 12 selected RBI players who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership skills and financial need and plan on attending an accredited two-year or four-year college, university, vocational school or technical school. Since 2008, 54 scholarships have been awarded. 15 YOUTH BASEBALL & SOFTBALL 16 C oming off the recent success of having 14 alumni selected in the 2012 FirstYear Player Draft, the Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) program sent a team of 18-and-under RBI participants from around the country to USA Baseball’s 2012 Tournament of Stars, held June 20-24 at the USA Baseball National Training Complex in Cary, North Carolina. The team was led by Ernest Radcliffe, manager of the Union League Boys & Girls Club/Chicago Cubs RBI tournament team. Each year, USA Baseball, in partnership with seven National Member Organizations (RBI, AABC, American Legion, Babe Ruth, Dixie, Pony and NABF), organizes the Tournament of Stars presented by Major League Baseball, the primary vehicle used by USA Baseball in selecting the 18U national team. Throughout the five-day event, 144 players from around the country competed in a championship tournament representing a member organization or as part of the “at-large” USA Stars team, and participated in the scout/evaluation day dedicated to evaluation opportunities. Following the gold medal game on Sunday, June 24, players were selected to remain in Cary to participate in the 18U National Team Trials & Training and the Prospect Classic. Ronell Coleman of the Chicago White Sox RBI program was selected to participate in the Team Trials. T MLB Pitch Hit & Run is a free national program in which youngsters ages 7–14 have the opportunity to showcase their skills in pitching, hitting and running. The program begins around Major League Baseball’s Opening Day, with nearly 4,000 local competitions hosted throughout the United States and Canada. Boys and girls participate in separate divisions, with winners advancing from local competitions to sectional competitions to MLB team championships in Major League ballparks, and finally to the national finals at the MLB All-Star Game. For more information, visit MLB.com/phr or send an email to [email protected]. he National Pro Fastpitch (NPF)/Major League Baseball Official Development Partner relationship was created under Commissioner Selig’s Initiative for Women and Baseball. As the only professional women’s fastpitch softball league in the United States, National Pro Fastpitch is home to many former Olympic medalists and collegiate players. These women are accomplished in their sport and dedicated to serving as role models for America’s young girls. Since 2003, NPF has worked with Major League Baseball to stage player appearances, clinics, and promotions with various MLB Clubs. Over the 10 years of the relationship, NPF has held clinics and autograph signings at MLB All-Star FanFest, hosted regular-season games in Minor League Baseball parks and exhibition games in Major League Baseball parks. In 2011 and 2012, MLB was a proud supporter of NPF’s Back to School Tour – an All-Star series of exhibition games against college teams across the United States. See profastpitch.com for more information. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 Civil Rights Game (CRG) was developed by Major League Baseball to honor those who fought for the rights for all people to live equally. The 2012 CRG, which culminated a two-year stint for the event in Atlanta, featured the Braves taking on the Los Angeles Dodgers at Turner Field, with the game broadcast live on MLB Network. Prior to the game the Braves hosted a roundtable discussion titled “Baseball and the Civil Rights Movement”, which was streamed on MLB.com, the MLB Beacon Awards Luncheon, as well as a youth clinic. A pregame on-field ceremony honored the Beacon Award winners for 2012, which included Earth, Wind and Fire (MLB Beacon of Change), Brooklyn Dodgers legend Don Newcome (MLB Beacon of Hope), and U.S. Representative and civil rights leader John Lewis (MLB Beacon of Life). In 2013, the CRG moves to Chicago where the White Sox will host the event. For more information, visit MLB.com/civilrightsgame. I n July 2012, MLB and the Chicago White Sox co-hosted the MLB Diversity Business Summit, a first-of-its-kind diversity employment and business opportunity trade fair designed to provide job seekers and entrepreneurs with an opportunity to network directly with decision-makers for League-wide employment and business opportunities. The one-day event, held at McCormick Place in Chicago, provided attendees with unprecedented access to human resources and procurement executives from all 30 MLB Clubs, MLB Network, MLB Advanced Media, Minor League Baseball Clubs and MLB’s Central Office. Included in the program were breakout sessions and workshops for attendees, a roundtable discussion with MLB Club owners and executives, and a keynote address from Commissioner Allan H. (Bud) Selig. The event, which attracted more than 800 registrants, concluded with a reception and a game at U.S. Cellular Field, home of the Chicago White Sox. For more information on the 2013 MLB Diversity Business Summit MLB.com/diversitysummit. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 DIVERSITY The 17 Major League Baseball (MLB), the MLB Players Trust and State Farm teamed with Habitat for Humanity International to build new homes for families in Joplin, Missouri and Tuscaloosa, Alabama, which were two of the communities devastated by the tornadoes in April and May of 2011. Nine homes were built in these communities – five in Joplin; four in Tuscaloosa. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS 18 In addition, MLB and the Major League Baseball Players Association responded to the disasters with an immediate contribution of $200,000 toward relief efforts in the Midwest and Southeast that helped treat nearly 6,000 people during the critical days and weeks following the tornadoes. As a continuation of efforts with the MLBPA, Major League Baseball also dedicated Game Seven of the 2011 World Series to tornado relief efforts in the Midwest and Southeast. I n its 26th year in 2012, B.A.T. is a unique organization within the sports industry dedicated to assisting members of the Baseball Family who are in need. Through charitable contributions from corporations, foundations and individuals, B.A.T. strives to provide a means of support to people with financial, medical or psychological burdens. The majority of the funds raised by B.A.T. comes from the players, who contribute through a payroll deduction program. Baseball Hall of Famers Sandy Koufax, Willie Mays and Tom Seaver joined more than 100 current and former Major Leaguers at the 23rd annual “Going to Bat for B.A.T. Fundraising Dinner presented by Natural Balance Pet Foods” in New York City in 2012. St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Carlos Beltran received the Bart Giamatti Award, which is presented annually to an individual in baseball who best exemplifies the compassion demonstrated by the late Commissioner. Baltimore Orioles center fielder Adam Jones received the Big B.A.T./Frank Slocum Award, for his financial support and generosity to the B.A.T. Major League Baseball covers B.A.T.’s operating expenses, ensuring that every dollar raised is a dollar used to help someone in need. More than $26 million in grants have been awarded to date, benefiting more than 3,000 members of the Baseball Family. For more information, visit baseballassistanceteam.com, on Twitter @BATcharity or find them on Facebook. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 A s part of Major League Baseball’s fifth consecutive year of national fundraising and awareness initiatives for Welcome Back Veterans, all players and coaches wore camouflage logo caps on Memorial Day (May 28) and Independence Day (July 4) weekends in 2012. Net proceeds received from the sale of the caps benefited Welcome Back Veterans, an MLB Charities initiative in partnership with the McCormick Foundation that addresses the needs of returning American veterans and their families. Current Welcome Back Veterans Programs • Duke University • Emory University • Mass General Hospital • Rush University Medical Center • UCLA • University of Michigan • Weill Cornell After the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the Baseball family came together to help our communities heal, unite and rebuild. We stood united and vowed “We Shall Not Forget.” Thanks to the leadership and support from Commissioner Selig and all 30 Clubs, this pledge has been honored each year since that date. On Wednesday, September 11, 2012, Major League Baseball again renewed this promise. In addition to honoring its pledge, MLB paid tribute to the men and women who continue to serve their country. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS Supported by MLB Advanced Media and MLB Network, Welcome Back Veterans has distributed more than $13 million in grants to non-profit agencies targeting veterans’ and their families’ greatest needs, with a focus on research and treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). For more information, visit welcomebackveterans.org. 19 Major League Baseball and Commissioner Allan H. (Bud) Selig named the Toronto Blue Jays as the 2012 recipients of the Commissioner’s Award for Philanthropic Excellence, an award created in 2010 to recognize an outstanding community program of an MLB Club. The Blue Jays were acknowledged for the “Toronto Blue Jays Baseball Academy,” a series of initiatives to help support youth across Canada and provide them with opportunities on and off the field of play. The Jays Care Foundation, the official charity of the Toronto Blue Jays, received a $10,000 grant from Major League Baseball as part of this recognition. GIVING 20 MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 The Major League Baseball Dominican Development Alliance (MLB-DDA), a partnership between MLB and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), leverages the influence of baseball in the Dominican Republic. The MLB-DDA integrates the sport with the work of non-profit organizations in order to carry out community development projects. Three specific projects were the focus of the MLB-DDA in 2012, centering on education, health, youth and economic development. These efforts included the contributions of the Cleveland Indians and their former manager, Manny Acta, as well as All-Star relief pitcher Rafael Soriano. To date, the MLB-DDA incentive fund has leveraged nearly $2 million through six Major League Clubs, six players and the MLB Players Trust. GIVING • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • T he Baseball Tomorrow Fund (BTF) is a joint initiative between the Major League Baseball Players Association and Major League Baseball designed to promote the growth of youth baseball and softball throughout the world by awarding grants to support field renovation and construction projects, equipment and uniform purchases, coaches training materials and other select program expenses. Since its formation by MLB and the MLBPA in 1999, BTF has awarded over 665 grants totaling more than $23 million to non-profit and tax-exempt organizations in the U.S., Canada, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Africa and Asia. Approximately 325,000 youth players have benefited from programs and facilities supported by the fund. BTF also facilitates league-wide initiatives including the collection and distribution of new and gently used equipment to organizations in need as well as field maintenance education clinics. For more information, visit baseballtomorrowfund.com and follow BTF on Facebook, Twitter and MLBlogs. S ocial responsibility is one of the main tenets of Major League Baseball’s operations in the Dominican Republic, and serves as the impetus for many projects that give back to a country that has produced many Major League players, including some of the game’s greats. Major League Baseball Latin America, located in Santo Domingo, coordinates with MLB Clubs, executives and players to implement sustainable development projects and programs aimed at improving education and other worthy efforts in local Dominican communities. In 2012, the office coordinated 13 community projects that served more than 600 children. In addition, the office also facilitated 14 team and player community related events, impacting an additional 900 boys and girls in the Dominican Republic. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 21 $13,470,656 GIVING 22 Access Intelligence Albany State University American Cancer Society American Diabetes Foundation American Sportscasters Association Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation Arizona Major League Alumni Association Arizona RBI Arizona State University Asociación Major League Baseball (DR) Athletes for Hope Autism Speaks Autry National Center Baseball Assistance Team, Inc. Baseball Writers Association (BBWAA) Beyond Sport Limited BGC of Central Arkansas BGC of Greater Kansas City (KCMO) BGC of Greater Milwaukee BGC of Venice Big Brothers Big Sisters of NY Big Shoulders Fund Binghamton University Black Agency Executives Black Coaches & Administrators Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Ohio Boys & Girls Clubs of Lawrence Boys & Girls Clubs of Phoenix Boys & Girls Clubs of Topeka Brewers Community Foundation Bucknell University Cal State University - Dominguez California University of Pennsylvania Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Center for Security Charleston RBI Chattanooga RBI Children’s Dream Fund Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Cincinnati Reds RBI Citadel University City of Hope Claflin University COA Youth & Family Centers College Baseball Foundation Congressional Hispanic Caucus Coro Southern California CUNY Baruch Dana Farber Cancer Institute David and Brett Enterprises Detroit Arsenal RBI Detroit RBI Dream Center DRSEA Drug Free AZ.org Eastern Michigan University Executive Women International Exp USO Dinner Fellowship Open First Methodist Church Fisher College Flight 93 National Memorial Florence Crittenton Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University Florida International University For the City Network - RBI Austin Giants Community Fund Girl Scout Council of SW Connecticut GLAAD GLSEN Grand Canyon Council BSA Greater North Houston Youth Alliance Habitat for Humanity Hampton Roads RBI Harlem RBI Hillsborough Community College Hoboken RBI HOBY Hope Shines for Shannon Hospice of Northern Colorado Hospice of Northwest Ohio Houston RBI Hunter College HS Alumni Foundation Huntington Youth Baseball League Iona College Irvine Valley College J Crasnick/Beaton Fund Jackie Robinson Foundation Jackie Robinson Park Conservancy Jewish Museum Milwaukee Johnson County Community College Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Kentucky State University Kingsborough Community College Kutztown University LA RBI Lamar University Life Animal Rescue Life with Cancer Center Los Amigos Hight School Los Angeles Sports Council Foundation Making a Difference Women Awareness March of Dimes Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation Marlins RBI Miami-Dade College Mike McMorris Cystic Fibrosis Mississippi RBI MLB Players Trust MLBPAA Legends Dinner Montclair State University Morehouse College Mount Holyoke College NAAAHRGNY Chapter NACD Northwest Chapter National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial National Academy of Television National Consortium for Academics National Minority Supplier Development National September 11 Memorial Negro Leagues Baseball Museum New York Urban League New York Yankees Foundation NewBay Media NKF Benefit Nobu Yamauchi RBI League NSSA NYC Police Foundation Oakland RBI Old Dominion College Ormond Beach Friends of Recreation Inc. Paris Junior College Parkways Foundation c/o Chicago Park Dis. PBATS Penn State Greater Allegheny Philadelphia Youth Organization Pittsburgh RBI Pius XI High School Play Ball Indiana RBI Professional Baseball Scouts Foundation Prostate Cancer Foundation Providence RBI RBI Atlanta - Pattillo Rec Hofstra Law School Benefit Red Sox Foundation RBI Robin Hood Events Associates Robinson Cano’s RC24 Foundation Rock and Wrap it Up Rod Beaton Fund S.A.F.E. SABR Safe & Sound Inc St Francis Children’s Center St Marks Church in the Bowery St. Joseph’s University Stand Up To Cancer Starlight Children’s Foundation Street & Smith’s Sport Group SUNY New Paltz Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation T Howard Foundation Tampa RBI Talor Hooton Foundation The Advertising Council The ALS Association The American Ireland Fund The Gary Carter Foundation The Joe Torre Safe at Home Foundation The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society The Mayflower Retirement Center The Sports Museum of New England The V Foundation Golf Benefit Toronto Maple Leaf Baseball Club Tougaloo College True Divine Community Development - River Region RBI Tuskegee University Twins RBI United Community Centers RBI University of California - Los Angeles University of Central Missouri University of Chicago University of Florida University of Houston Downtown University of Minnesota University of Texas at San Antonio University of West Florida USAG Ft Leavenworth CYS Service Valencia Community College Venice Family Clinic Virginia State University Winfield Awards WISE Wittenberg University Woman’s Business Enterprise Women’s Sports Foundation World Baseball Outreach RBI World Children’s Baseball Fair YMCA of Middle Tennessee (Partial List) MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 MLB All-Star Week Community Events Major League Baseball and the Kansas City Royals hosted a series of community and charitable initiatives and activities leading up to the 83rd MLB All-Star Game that left a lasting legacy in the Kansas City community. MLB All-Star Summer activities in 2012 supported charitable organizations and initiatives including Stand Up To Cancer, The Prostate Cancer Foundation, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities, Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Make-A-Wish Foundation, among others. MLB and the Royals donated nearly $4 million through MLB Charities and the Kansas City Royals Foundation to MLB All-Star projects in the greater Kansas City area and beyond. The funds, raised from Gatorade AllStar Workout Day, were donated to a variety of local and national charities. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 23 ALL STAR Major League Baseball, the Major League Baseball Players Trust, State Farm, and Holiday Inn® teamed up with Habitat for Humanity to build nine new homes for families in Joplin, Mo., and Tuscaloosa, Ala., two of the communities devastated by tornadoes in April and May of 2011. Two of the nine homes were framed during All-Star Week in a section of the parking lot at Kauffman Stadium, and the build sites were visited by Commissioner Selig and American and National League All-Stars. The All-Star Build sites at Kauffman Stadium were also visited by participants in the Taco Bell All-Star Legends & Celebrity Softball Game, and Kansas City Royals legends. In addition to the two homes that were framed in Kansas City, five of the nine homes had already been completed, and construction on the final two concluded in the fall of 2012. 24 MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 O Thanks to pledges from fans and support provided by MLB partners including Nike, Aquafina, Bayer Advanced Aspirin, Gatorade, One A Day and Scotts, the event set a new All-Star Charity Race fundraising record of over $300,000, which was donated in equal shares to the three benefiting charities The Prostate Cancer Foundation, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Greater Kansas City, and Stand Up To Cancer. ALL STAR ver 8,000 participants of all ages raced through the streets of downtown Kansas City, Missouri, on Sunday, July 8 for the third MLB All-Star Charity 5K & Fun Run. Fans showed their All-Star allegiance by proudly wearing their chosen “I Run For The NL” or “I Run For The AL” t-shirts. Hall of Famer and All-Star Summer Ambassador George Brett served as the Official Race Starter, and Kansas City Royals alum and 5-time AllStar Mike Sweeney was a Race Team Captain. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 25 ALL STAR 26 MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 2012 T 2012 he fourth annual Jr. RBI Classic consisted of eight baseball and four softball teams of 11-12 year olds. Participants included teams from across the United Sates and the first international team of participants from Canada. Tournament games were held at youth fields in the greater Kansas City area. The Jr. RBI playing divisions for ages 5-12 are part of the Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) program designed to provide underserved youth with an opportunity to play baseball and softball, promote character development, encourage academic success, and teach the value of teamwork. Major League Baseball supplied the teams with uniforms, equipment and AllStar apparel. The Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation supported the 2012 Jr. RBI Classic with skills clinics in baseball and softball at the newly renovated Satchel Paige Stadium in Kansas City. Additionally, the young athletes attended several All-Star events including MLB All-Star FanFest, the XM AllStar Futures Game, the Taco Bell All-Star Legends & Celebrity Softball Game and the State Farm Home Run Derby, and met MLB All-Star players and celebrities. and the Royals, in partnership with Starlight Children’s Foundation, purchased a Starlight Fun Center for Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City. The Fun Center includes a Nintendo gaming system, DVD player and flat screen monitor that rolls up to the side of young patients’ beds or anywhere in hospital settings. For more information, visit starlight.org. ALL STAR • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • S pecial needs children from Little League’s Challenger and PONY Baseball Softball Champions divisions played a one-inning game on the outfield grass of Kauffman Stadium. Royals staff volunteered for the event and provided tickets to participants and their families to attend MLB All-Star FanFest. MLB MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 27 from Magical Builders, made renovations to Operation Breakthrough, the largest early education childcare and social service facility in Missouri, serving more than 450 children daily in Kansas City. Classroom environments were remodeled helping Operation Breakthrough improve its afterschool and summer enrichment programs for low-income families. Renovations made to the facility’s infrastructure included replacing ceilings, drywall, glass and windows, installing new walls and doors, painting and electrical work and sprinkler relocation. Commissioner Selig, Royals CEO David Glass and President Dan Glass, along with Royals Hall of Famer and All-Star Ambassador George Brett were on hand to celebrate the completion of the renovations. In addition to childcare, Operation Breakthrough offers on-site health care for children and parents, dental care, mental health services, speech and occupational therapy, tutoring and mentoring, a food pantry, nutrition assistance through an onsite WIC office, and case management. For more information, visit operationbreakthrough.org. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ALL STAR 28 Major League Baseball and the Royals, with assistance W “They Were All-Stars” ith help from MLB All-Star Legacy funds, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum created a new, dynamic traveling exhibit displaying historical photos, video and text showcasing former Negro Leagues players who became MLB All-Stars after the integration of baseball in 1947. A portion of the exhibit will be integrated into the permanent “Major League Baseball” section of the museum, where fans can learn about legendary players such as Jackie Robinson, Hank Aaron and Willie Mays, while also gaining an understanding of the impact baseball has had as a tool for social change. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum is a privately funded, non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the rich history of African Americans in baseball, with exhibits and artifacts dating from the late 1800s through the 1960s. For more information, visit nlbm.com. R E N O V A T I O R O N N Major League Baseball and the Royals, with assistance from Magical Builders, completed a comprehensive renovation of the interior of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City, newly named “Independence Unit”. Improvements to the building included new classrooms, restrooms, furniture throughout the club and an improved HVAC system. The project brought the facility into alignment with state requirements, making the Independence Unit annually eligible for subsidies to provide school-aged child care and food subsidies from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. As a result of the improvements, total membership is expected to grow by 60% by 2015. The Scotts Company contributed landscaping products and materials. The renovations were revealed at a ceremony attended by MLB Executive Vice President Tim Brosnan, Royals CEO David Glass, President Dan Glass and Baseball Hall of Famer and 2012 MLB All-Star Ambassador George Brett. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City serves nearly 8,000 youth members, ages 5 to 18, at five communitybased sites and three youth baseball facilities located throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area. For more information, visit bgc-gkc.org • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • of GREATER KANSAS CITY, GREATER CITY, LESLIE LESLIE UNIT UNIT A ALL STAR BOYS & GIRLS CLUB BOYS CLUB s an extension of MLB’s commitment to the Welcome Back Veterans initiative (welcomebackveterans.org), renovations were made to the Kansas City VA Honor Annex, which provides special services for veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and female veterans. Renovations, led by the national non-profit Rebuilding Together, included creating family-friendly, baseballthemed play areas in the waiting area for patients’ children, improving aesthetics of the clinic offices and meetings areas, and enhancing the landscape surrounding the facility, which was added to the Kansas City VA Medical Center system in 2012. The interior work to the building benefits veterans of all eras involved in the PTSD Outpatient Treatment Program and other Annex programs. Bank of America supported the project by committing a donation and volunteers. MLB Executive Vice President Tim Brosnan, Royals CEO David Glass and President Dan Glass and Royals Hall of Famer and All-Star Ambassador George Brett attended a ceremony marking the completion of the renovations. The Scotts Company has also supported renovations with landscape materials and product donations. The Kansas City VA Medical Center, which opened in 1952, is a referral medical center providing medical care to approximately 45,000 veterans from five different states each year. For more information, visit kansascity.va.gov MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 29 Youth Field Renovations, Kansas City, Missouri BOYS & GIRLS CLUB of GREATER KANSAS CITY, LESLIE UNIT R E N O V A T I O N Kansas City Parks and Recreation Department: Mulkey Square Park and Satchel Paige Stadium. Renovations included the installation of new irrigation systems and scoreboard, infield and outfield maintenance, fencing construction and installation, backstops, dugouts and other improvements to the general facility surrounding each field. The fields will be regularly used by local Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) leagues and Guadalupe Center Youth Baseball, among others. During 2012 MLB All-Star Week, Satchel Paige Stadium hosted the opening ceremonies of the Jr. RBI Classic, an event designed to provide hundreds of young RBI baseball and softball players an opportunity to participate in MLB All-Star Week. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ALL STAR 30 MLB All-Star Legacy funding helped renovate two baseball fields owned by the Cleveland Park Field Renovations & Dedication Renovations at Cleveland Park, which serves nearly 800 players in the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City RBI league, were unveiled during All-Star Week. The Baseball Tomorrow Fund awarded a grant of $50,000 to provide funding for the renovations, which included infield mix, laser grading and drainage surrounding the four fields at the park. The MO-KAN Chapter of the Sports Turf Managers Association provided volunteer labor to complete the project. total of 25 high school seniors as MLB-Royals All-Star R E N O V A T I O N Scholars, five recipients each year. The students are selected from the 20/20 Leadership program, which serves students from moderate- to low-income families to educate and expose them to community issues, develop personal and leadership skills and build community-wide relationships. The selected students will have the opportunity for a $2,500 per year scholarship, renewable up to four years. The program recipients are selected based on a number of criteria, including academic achievement and attendance record, financial need and demonstrated community involvement. For more information, visit royals.com/community. A s part of Major League Baseball’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, MLB worked closely with the Royals, the Natural Resources Defense Council and local community partners to help ensure that the 2012 MLB All-Star Week was environmentally proactive. This was the fifth MLB All-Star Week during which MLB and the NRDC worked together to implement measures both in-stadium and at supporting events. The initiative includes offsetting the energy and water usage at ballpark events with Green-e Certified Renewable Energy Credits and water restoration credits, implementing prominent recycling programs, and prioritizing environmental attributes when selecting materials for various community refurbishment projects. For more information, visit nrdc.org. ALL STAR GREATER KANSAS CITY, LESLIE UNIT MLB-Royals All-Star Scholars program will select a • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • All-Star Scholars BOYS & GIRLS CLUB of Beginning in 2012 and continuing through 2016, the MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 31 Major League Baseball hosted the 2012 Breaking Barriers Essay Contest grand prize winner, Raeya Ponugoti, a fifth-grader from Indianapolis, Indiana during All-Star Week. Raeya’s winning essay was chosen from thousands of entries from across the country and Canada. For more information, visit MLB.com/breakingbarriers. ALL STAR 32 MLB hosted six young people with life-threatening illnesses from the Make-A- Wish Foundation whose wish was to attend the MLB All-Star Game. The children met Commissioner Selig, All-Star and Futures Game players, MLB legends, mascots and celebrities, and attended a special VIP reception, the MLB All-Star FanFest, SiriusXM Satellite Futures Game, State Farm Home Run Derby and All-Star Game. Since 2000, MLB has granted 76 wishes to attend the All-Star Game and World Series. For more information, visit wish.org. Major League Baseball partners with TEAM (Techniques for Effective Alcohol Management) Coalition for the Responsibility Has Its Rewards program at all 30 ballparks. The promotion aims to increase awareness of the importance of responsible drinking and designating a sober driver when traveling to and from the ballpark. One Designated Driver for the season is selected from each Club at the end of the season out of all fans who signed up for the program. These 30 fans are eligible for the sweepstakes grand prize – tickets to a World Series game. The two Designated Drivers for the season whose Clubs advance to the World Series win two tickets each for their Club’s first home game of the Series. One of the remaining 28 Designated Drivers for the season whose Club does not advance to the World Series is selected to win a trip to the following year’s All-Star Game. TEAM and several MLB Clubs have helped to increase the number of fans who participate in designated driver programs through Designated Driver Challenges – season-long competitions where rival Clubs track the number of fans who pledge to be designated drivers. For more information, visit teamcoalition.org. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 MLB World Series Community Events Major League Baseball dedicated Games One through Four of the 2012 World Series to highlighting MLB charitable partners and signature programs in order to raise awareness for important community causes. Advancing the fight against cancer with Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) was the focus during Game One; honoring veterans and their families through Welcome Back Veterans during Game Two; supporting youth, especially those in underserved communities, with MLB youth programs (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and Breaking Barriers) during Game Three; and celebrating community service with Habitat for Humanity during Game Four. The Series also recognized Designated Drivers, and included Fun Center donations and green initiatives. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 33 GAME 1 WORLD SERIES EVENTS Natural Resources 34 G M Advancing the Fight Against Cancer ame One of the 2012 World Series highlighted Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C), as MLB promoted the importance of advancing the fight against cancer. Major League Baseball dedicated an in-game moment to the cause by asking players and fans to stand in unison in honor of someone they knew affected by cancer. Prior to the game, MLB, SU2C and representatives from the San Francisco Giants visited patients at the Benioff Children’s Hospital in San Francisco ajor League Baseball dedicated and presented them with a Starlight Fun Games One through Four of the 2012 Center mobile entertainment unit. World Series to highlighting MLB charitable partners and signature programs in order to raise awareness for important community causes. Advancing the fight against cancer with Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) was the focus during Game One; honoring veterans and their families through Welcome Back Veterans during Game Two; supporting youth, especially those in underserved communities, with MLB youth programs (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities, & Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and Breaking Barriers) during Game Three; and celebrating community service with Habitat for Humanity during Game Four. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 GAME 1 VETERANS AND MILITARY FAMILIES G MLB ame One of the 2012 World Series highlighted Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C), as MLB promoted the importance of advancing the fight against cancer. the Major League Baseball highlighted League’s support dedicated for the an ingame moment to thethrough cause by asking players and fans to stand in military, specifically the Welcome Back Veterans unison in honor of someone they knew affected by cancer. initiative, by dedicating Game Two to veterans and Prior to the game, MLB,There SU2Cwas andarepresentatives the San Franmilitary families. special on-field,from pregame cisco Giantsfeaturing membersaofvideo the MLB and SU2C family visited young ceremony narrated by Tom Brokaw patients at the to Benioff Hospitalwho in San Francisco and paying tribute formerChildren’s Major Leaguers served the presented themofwith a Starlight FunWar Center United States America in World II. mobile entertainment unit. GAME 2 Game One : Advancing the Fight Against Cancer: Stand Up To Cancer WORLD SERIES EVENTS NL-Wednesday, OCT 24 MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 35 GAME 3 WORLD SERIES EVENTS Natural 36 G M REVIVING BASBALL IN INNER CITIES ame Three was dedicated to youth, particularly those in underserved communities who are reached through the Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) and Breaking Barriers MLB programs, and also the League’s partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA). During an on-field ceremony prior to Game Three, youth from all three programs were recognized. Prior to the game, hundreds of young ajor Leaguepeople Baseball dedicated from local RBI and BGCA programs attended Games One through Four Play?” of the event 2012 and clinic. “Wanna Play?” is a “Wanna World Series atomulti-faceted highlightinginitiative MLB dedicated to youth fitness, charitable partners and boys signature encouraging and girls ages 6 to 12 to increase programs in ordertheir to raise awareness for nutrition education through overall fitness and important community causes. Advancing physical activity while learning the fundamental skills the fight against ofcancer withand Stand Up through fun and engaging baseball softball To Cancer (SU2C) was theThe focus during activities. event was administered by the Cal Game One; honoring veterans and Ripken, Sr. Foundation. their families through Welcome Back Veterans during Game Two; supporting youth, especially those in underserved communities, with MLB youth programs (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities, & Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and Breaking Barriers) during Game Three; and celebrating community service with Habitat for Humanity during Game Four. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 GAME 1 GAME 4 G ame One of the 2012 World Series highlighted Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C), as MLB promoted the importance of advancing the fight against cancer. Major League Baseball dedicated an ingame moment to the cause by asking players and fans to stand in unison in honor of someone they knew affected by cancer. Prior to the game, MLB, SU2C and representatives from the San Francisco Giants members of the MLB and SU2C family visited young patients at the Benioff Children’s Hospital in San Francisco and presented them with a Starlight Fun Center mobile entertainment unit. ame Four was dedicated to celebrating the work of Habitat for Humanity, a long-time partner of MLB. Baseball has continued to promote the organization’s efforts, most recently in the construction of new homes for low-income families in Joplin, Missouri and Tuscaloosa, Alabama, which were two of the communities devastated by tornadoes in April and May of 2011. Major League Baseball made a $10,000 contribution to Detroit Habitat for Humanity. COMMUNITY SERVICE: HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Game One : G Advancing the Fight Against Cancer: Stand Up To Cancer WORLD SERIES EVENTS NL-Wednesday, OCT 24 MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 37 I n 2012, the MLB Fan Cave returned for a second season. Located in the heart of Greenwich Village in New York City, the MLB Fan Cave hosted MLB player and celebrity appearances, a concert series, fan events and a group of die-hard baseball fans who were competing against one another to watch every game of the 2012 season. In the end, San Francisco Giants fan Ashley Chavez was crowned the “Ultimate Cave Dweller” before Game 4 of the World Series. Over the past two seasons, Baseball’s top players including David Ortiz, Robinson Cano, Matt Kemp, Justin Verlander and Bryce Harper – have visited the MLB Fan Cave to interact with fans both in person and via social media and to participate in video features that can be found on MLBFanCave.com. Additionally, the MLBFanCave.com Concert Series has featured a wide range of musical acts including OneRepublic, The All-American Rejects, Daughtry, Nas, Jason Aldean, Ziggy Marley, The Avett Brothers and more. Community events at the MLB Fan Cave in 2012 included: • April 19 Boys & Girls Clubs of America set a new record for the Guinness Book of World Records for “Most Participants in Multiple Games of Tag within a 24-Hour Period at Multiple Venues” with 20,541 • December 13 CC Sabathia Boys & Girls Club Holiday Party • December 14 MLB Annual Winter Wishes Party 38 MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 Winter Wishes MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 VOLUNTEERING S ince 2002, Major League Baseball has participated in the NY Cares Winter Wishes program by providing gifts for underserved children. In 2012, MLB employees granted the wishes of children from the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton, New Jersey, who were affected by Hurricane Sandy. The MLB Fan Cave and Major League Baseball played host to 35 children from the Club. The kids were bussed to the Cave and treated to a night of celebration and holiday spirit. The evening included a dinner, posing with the World Series trophy, meeting a policeman and his police dog, trying on fire gear and taking pictures with Mr. Met and Santa Claus. 39 Arizona Diamondbacks Back-to-School Challenge CLUB ACTIVITIES-EDUCATION 40 The D-backs Back-To-School Challenge is part of the organization’s overall charitable efforts. In early 2012, the team and its charitable arm, the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation, surpassed $30 million in combined donations since its inception in 1998. With nearly 600 submissions from Arizona schools, the winning grants came from all around the state of Arizona and funded projects ranging from school improvements to innovative educational programs. The program donated $250,000 to 51 Valley schools over a period of nine months. Winning schools used the grant money to satisfy an array of needs such as automatic doors for kids with disabilities and computer lab upgrades. Nutrition and fitness projects included new and revitalized campus gardens to promote healthy eating and feature a rainwater harvesting system. Thirtyone schools were awarded grants. Each winning school will be honored and receive a check on the field at a 2013 D-backs game at Chase Field. The D-backs will donate 1,000 tickets for students, parents, teachers and staff to attend the game. Atlanta Braves Strike Out Bullying Among Youth The Atlanta Braves teamed up with the Anti-Defamation League (A.D.L.) to “Strike Out Bullying Among Youth” during the 2012 season. Braves players participated in several “No Place For Hate” anti-bullying rallies. They were also featured in an anti-bullying PSA in English and Spanish that aired in schools across Georgia and the southeast reaching thousands of students. To culminate the initiative, a “No Place For Hate” anti-bullying rally was held at Turner Field and featured messages from Brian Jordan, former Braves outfielder and author of “Time Out For Bullies”, 10-year-old performer and anti-bullying advocate Young Meo and A.D.L. representatives. Youth of all ages took a pledge to strike out bullying at the pre-game rally as the Braves and A.D.L. asked all kids to help make their schools no place for hate. Baltimore Orioles Summer Reading Club The Orioles once again partnered with Maryland Public Libraries to present their annual Summer Reading Club to over 150,000 young readers at more than 180 Maryland public library branches. The 2012 program, titled “Dream Big,” was designed to encourage and reward area youth who committed to reading throughout the summer. Beginning in June, children from elementary school through high school were able to register at any Maryland Public Library and receive a reading log that guided them through the Summer Reading Program. Kids who completed the reading log received prizes including Orioles game tickets. The Orioles donated more than 7,000 tickets to program participants for their August 10 game. In addition to the Summer Reading Program, the Orioles participated in a variety of youth initiatives including the Tuttle Elementary School Turtle’s Walk to help students raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and a baseball clinic at Ed Smith Stadium with various Orioles staff, players and coaches for 40 youth from the Roy McBean Boys & Girls Club. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 Boston Red Sox The Red Sox Scholars program, launched in 2003, provides scholarships and mentoring for academically talented and financially challenged middle school students from Boston Public Schools. Red Sox Scholars is the educational cornerstone of the Red Sox Foundation, the team charity of the Boston Red Sox. There are currently 220 Red Sox Scholars ranging from 7th graders to juniors in college. The Red Sox Foundation commits to funding up to $10,000 in college scholarships for each new Scholar. It also provides access to mentoring from Red Sox Foundation staff members, tutoring, and other after-school and summer enrichment activities in addition to assistance with the college application process. In 2010, the Red Sox Scholars program was recognized by Major League Baseball as the inaugural recipient of the Commissioner’s Award for Philanthropic Excellence. Chicago Cubs Cubs Classroom Through a gift from Chicago Cubs Charities, the Chicago Cubs dedicated the “Cubs Classroom” at the brand new Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago in 2012. The new “Cubs Classroom” will serve as the focal point for all of the hospital’s education-based programming, providing a wide variety of learning and enrichment activities to keep children engaged while in the hospital. The classroom will also provide space for volunteer tutors and teachers to help children with their schoolwork and offer grade-appropriate enrichment activities such as science experiments, computer games, art and multimedia projects, reading, and resources to teach kids about their own health and medical care. Interactive technology-based learning will be a primary focus. Patients will have access to a bank of computers, video resources, educational software and a vast library of multilingual books for all age levels. In addition, through a grant from Cubs Care, the hospital will continue to promote literacy throughout the hospital, including the “Catch the Reading Bug” and “Bedtime Stories” programs. The classroom is expected to welcome an estimated 36,000 visitors each year. Chicago White Sox Stop Bullying The White Sox anti-bullying effort is linked with the “Stop Bullying” campaign created by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under the Obama administration. That campaign, at stopbullying.gov, includes information on cyberbullying and bullying aimed at LGBT youths and others. It also links to resources on how to prevent and respond to bullying. The White Sox continued the anti-bullying campaign throughout the 2012 baseball season, distributing information on the issue via the White Sox Kids Club. As part of the “Stop Bullying” campaign White Sox players filmed a video ad against bullying that’s featured at whitesox.com/stopbullying, and made appearances at local youth schools and organizations to promote the movement. The players explained to the children the negative impact of bullying and what kinds of affects bullying can have on individuals. Before the players left, they had the children recite a pledge to make a stand against bullying. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 CLUB ACTIVITIES-EDUCATION Red Sox Scholars 41 Cincinnati Reds Reds Hall of Fame &Museum CLUB ACTIVITIES-EDUCATION 42 The Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum offers six education programs. Students who participate in these “Extra Innings” programs discover how baseball plays a role in mathematics, science, and social studies curricula. Each area gives the students experiment-based, hands-on activities focused around typical classroom learning material. The programs are designed to incorporate the Common Core set of academic content standards and target grades ranging from pre-kindergarten through high school. These programs are also correlated to national, Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana testing standards. Beginning in 2011, the Reds Hall of Fame extended the program as part of an outreach program, in which a museum educator travels to schools to present the program. The Reds Hall of Fame saw a steady increase in school group attendance from 2007-2012, with 2012 on-site attendance numbers 55% higher than those in 2007. During the 2012 fiscal year, over 10,000 students from 140 different schools participated in the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum on-site and outreach programs. Cleveland Indians High Achievers Program The Cleveland Indians High Achievers program is a free program for students K-12 to reward them for performing well in school. Parents registered their children by logging on to www.indians.com/highachiever. Participants received a membership letter and card with a unique membership number used when submitting report card and reading information. Parents submitted report cards and reading forms (book title, author, number of pages, and brief summary of book) throughout the season. Students were rewarded with two tickets per criteria achieved—i.e. submit two report cards and receive four tickets. Members who submitted were considered “active” members and also received a voucher good for one free soda at a concession stand at Progressive Field and one free High Achiever t-shirt. Those active members entered into drawings to win experience packages, player meet and greets, spots on the Kids Starting Lineup and more. Colorado Rockies Make an Impact Program The Colorado Rockies Make an Impact program is a free program that brings the excitement of the Colorado Rockies to local elementary schools by holding a “Rockies School Rally.” This school-wide assembly is a character education program, designed to entertain students while showing them how to make an impact on their lives and communities by teaching them the importance of staying in school, refusing drugs, getting involved and respecting others. The interactive program includes a video presentation that features positive messages from Rockies players, a visit from the Rockies mascot, Dinger, and prizes for all students. The program is designed for grades K-6. A take-home lesson is sent home with each student. This assignment is designed to create dialogue between parents and their children about the messages of the program. After this lesson is completed by the student and signed by an adult, the student is able to turn it in and receive a poster along with a bookmark courtesy of the Colorado Rockies. In addition to the assembly, there is also a classroom decoration contest. The winning class receives a visit from the team mascot immediately following the program. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 Detroit Tigers Houston Astros Born to Wynn Program Excellence, diligence and teamwork are all skills learned through sports and are also fundamental building blocks for success. For the second summer in a row, the Astros conducted the “Born to Wynn” program at the Astros Urban Youth Academy. The program’s simple tag line - Believe it. Own it. Walk into it. encourages and empowers youth players to believe in themselves and use key life skills on and off the field to succeed. By tapping into the Major League Baseball experiences of Jimmy Wynn and other current and former Astros players, “Born to Wynn” focuses on developing leadership and life skills. The lessons emphasize key leadership qualities - character, attitude, skills, knowledge, drive and excellence. Sessions took place each Monday in June in conjunction with the Academy’s four-week summer camp. Former Astros player Jimmy Wynn and current players Justin Maxwell and Wesley Wright provided baseball instruction and shared life lessons. Kansas City Royals MLB-Royals All-Star Scholars Beginning in 2012, five high school seniors were identified as MLB-Royals All-Star Scholars. The students were selected from the 20/20 Leadership program, which serves students from moderate- to low-income families to educate and expose them to community issues, develop personal and leadership skills and build community-wide relationships. The students have the opportunity for a $2,500 per-year scholarship, renewable up to four years. The inaugural scholarship winners were announced in May and were recognized during All-Star Week in Kansas City. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 CLUB ACTIVITIES-EDUCATION Strike Out Bullying & G.R.E.A.T. In 2012 the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Tigers Foundation partnered with Michigan KIDS, Inc., to develop a state-wide anti-bullying program. The program was established to provide students and educators with the proper tools to address bullying in schools. With All-Star first baseman Prince Fielder serving as the program’s spokesman, a baseball-themed educational supplement was developed and distributed to over 140,000 students throughout Michigan. As a result, thousands of students signed the “Tigers Pledge to Stop Bullying”, and one school earned the right to host a Tigers player and members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a school assembly. 43 Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Angels Scholars CLUB ACTIVITIES-EDUCATION 44 In 2012, the Angels and the Angels Baseball Foundation proudly recognized a new class of Angels Scholars. Each school in Orange County offering the Advancement Via Individual Determination program (A.V.I.D.) in eighth grade nominated one student for the Angels Scholars scholarship. In addition to high academic and civic achievements, students completed an application with one short essay. Financial stability of the applicant was also considered. After all applications were reviewed, students whose applications were selected were interviewed by the committee at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. A task force comprised of members of the Orange County Office of Education, A.V.I.D. and the Angels Baseball Foundation selected the Angels Scholars. The task force took into account grades, application quality, financial need and the students’ social and academic achievements. Angels leadership and representatives from the Orange County Department of Education and the A.V.I.D. program honored the Scholars during a pregame ceremony. Angels Scholars has supported 47 students in their goals to obtain a bachelor’s degree. Los Angeles Dodgers Team Think Blue Program The Los Angeles Dodgers, Dodgers Dream Foundation, and the Los Angeles Times in Education joined forces for the 2011-2012 Team Think Blue program, which helps students throughout Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura and Orange counties improve their literacy and language arts while encouraging the development of a healthy and active lifestyle. Over 200,000 students, grades 4-12, have participated in the Team Think Blue program. As part of the program, teachers received a newspaper-based teaching guide and student copies of the Los Angeles Times were delivered to their classroom. Participating students and classrooms entered an art and essay contest for a chance to win Dodgers tickets. Student winners from each grade level were recognized at an awards luncheon held at Dodger Stadium with Dodgers alumnus Wes Parker on hand to present awards to the youth. All winners received four tickets to a Dodgers game and all first-place winners from each grade level were recognized on-field in a pre-game ceremony at a Dodgers home game. Miami Marlins Marlins Ayudan School Partership Program In the last three years, the Miami Marlins front-office volunteer program, “Marlins Ayudan”, has had tremendous impact throughout Miami Dade County Public Schools to solidify the team’s commitment to education. The “Marlins Ayudan School Partnership” program allows for a targeted approach to achieving its goal to directly impact the education of youth in Miami Dade County Public Schools. The Marlins seek to address each of its partner school’s specific areas of need by using individual and collective strengths to make a difference. They are guided by focused involvement with students, faculty and staff at eight pre-selected partner schools, which were selected by an application process in Spring 2012 and led by the following principles: • Work with partner schools in identifying specific areas of greatest need • Develop a measurable game plan to address those needs • Implement the game plan by utilizing Marlins Ayudan teams’ individual and collective strengths • Leave a lasting legacy at each partner school MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 Milwaukee Brewers S.C.O.R.E. (School, Community, Opportunities, Role models and Excellence) is the Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Club’s youth education and recreation initiative. S.C.O.R.E. is designed for players, alumni and front office personnel to increase the impact of the team’s youth outreach efforts through school visits and assemblies. Additionally, the Brewers participated in “S.C.O.R.E. for Excellence Day”, a joint venture with local schools designed to motivate middle school students to excel in academics, attitude and attendance. Brewers players, coaches and front office staff visited approximately 15,000 youth in 30 middle schools in the Wisconsin area, speaking with them about the importance of school and community. They encouraged the children to take advantage of opportunities, seek positive role models and strive for excellence in education. Five baseballs, each designed with one of the S.C.O.R.E. character messages printed on the side, are used to engage children in a dialogue about the importance of each of the elements. Minnesota Twins Father of the Year In partnership with the National Center for Fathering and Target, the Twins provide teachers with materials for students to submit essays explaining why their father, or father figure, should be the Father of the Year. In 2012, the Twins received over 4,000 entries state-wide for the contest. The finalists and their fathers are recognized at the Minnesota State Capitol and on the field prior to a Twins game. The contest not only recognizes outstanding fathers, but also encourages students to write and share ideas. New York Mets Citi Field Kids Citi Field Kids is an educational and motivational community-based initiative for New York City middle and high school students. Citi Field Kids was developed by the Mets, Citi and the Jackie Robinson Foundation to help young people reach their fullest potential by providing them with a unique educational and motivational experience. It was launched on April 15 , 2009, in conjunction with Major League Baseball’s annual Jackie Robinson Day and the opening of Citi Field. A series of in-season events educate and inspire students using the nine values and ideals of Jackie Robinson, the legendary pioneer and great American trailblazer who broke baseball’s color barrier with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947. The nine values he embodied – courage, integrity, determination, persistence, citizenship, justice, commitment, teamwork and excellence – serve as a focal point of the Jackie Robinson Rotunda at Citi Field to advance and perpetuate Robinson’s legacy and humanitarian ideals. The program provides children who might not ordinarily get to see a Major League Baseball game with a VIP experience, exposing them to accomplished athletes, scholars and business people. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 CLUB ACTIVITIES-EDUCATION S.C.O.R.E. 45 New York Yankees Sports Management Mentoring Program CLUB ACTIVITIES-EDUCATION 46 The New York Yankees partner with various community-based organizations to support, develop and implement outreach initiatives focused on exposing local youth to productive, educational programming and outlets. The Sport Management Mentoring program was established to expose high-school students to careers associated with professional athletics. On a monthly basis, the Yankees work with various schools and organizations that identify approximately 25 students to attend an interactive discussion with front office personnel who share information about their career paths, positions and day-to-day responsibilities, how their work supports game-day activities, and an overview of what takes place off the field. In addition, students are treated to lunch and a behind-the-scenes tour of Yankee Stadium. The objective of the program is two-fold: To educate students about career opportunities in the sports industry and to emphasize the importance of receiving an education. Oakland Athletics Science of the Game, Mathletics The “Science of the Game” program, launched by the A’s and Chevron, is a unique program that deepens interest and understanding among Bay Area youth by applying science to baseball. The A’s designed and distributed more than 15,000 “Science of the Game” workbooks to local schools that utilize science formulas to answer questions about various aspects of baseball. Students who complete their workbooks and submit their answer sheet to the A’s receive two game tickets. The Mathletics program is sponsored by Ross Dress For Less and Comcast SportsNet California. The A’s design and distribute thousands of Mathletics workbooks which utilize simple formulas for calculating statistics of A’s players. Students in grades one through eight who complete the workbooks correctly and submit the answer sheet to the A’s earn two tickets to a home game. Since the Mathletics program’s inception in 2003, over 200,000 Bay Area and Northern California students have participated Philadelphia Phillies Be a Phanatic About Reading Program The Phillie Phanatic is the Phillies number one fan and during home games his enthusiasm shows as he dances on the dugout and leads fans in Citizens Bank Park in “Let’s Go Phillies” chants. But when he is not cheering the Phillies on to victory, he is reading a book. The Phanatic loves to read so much that he is now the star of an eleven-book children’s series. His love of reading extends to schools all over the Delaware Valley through his Be a Phanatic About Reading program presented by Comcast. Each year Be a Phanatic About Reading encourages nearly 100,000 kindergarten through eighth graders to read for a minimum of 15 minutes a day to improve literacy skills. Classrooms receive Phanatic posters, pencils and bookmarks as incentives, as well as the opportunity for top performing classrooms to win a Phanatic literacy visit for their school. In 2011/12 the Phanatic visited nearly 30 schools where he acted out scenes from his book “The Phillie Phanatic’s Galapagos Island Adventure” or the poem “Casey at the Bat.” Additionally, the Phanatic hosts a Be a Phanatic About Reading night at the ballpark where the Most Improved and Most Outstanding Readers in the program are honored on-field, literacy activities take place throughout the concourse and a book collection is held. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 Pittsburgh Pirates Fantasy Baseball Math Program Pirates Charities expanded the program in 2012, in partnership with the Diocese of Pittsburgh and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania. In April, students across all sites celebrated “Opening Day” for competitive tournaments to determine one champion “team” of two students from each site. The site champions traveled to PNC Park to represent their respective sites at the Pittsburgh Regional Fantasy Baseball Tournament and World Series. All students who participated were invited to a Pirates game, and the program’s World Series Champions threw out the first pitch. St. Louis Cardinals Redbird Rookies As part of Cardinals Care’s youth baseball program, Redbird Rookies, the Cardinals partner with the St. Louis regional library system to encourage reading during the summer. Redbird Rookies participants are given special scorecards to track their reading. As they fill out the scorecard, they receive prizes from the library and from Redbird Rookies. Individuals who complete a scorecard receive school supplies and other fun incentives. Teams who have every player complete a scorecard, in addition to the individual incentives, are entered into drawings to practice on the field with current Cardinals players and receive an opportunity to play a game on the field at Busch Stadium. The Redbird Rookies also hosted the Redbird Rookies Fairs, focused on exposing kids to various activities in the areas of health and education. All children that attended the Fairs had the opportunity to receive hearing, vision, asthma, and dental screenings. They received health and nutrition information from various partners, and also had the opportunity to receive a free bike helmet and fitting. The Fairs are a great opportunity for children and parents to expose themselves to new and valuable health education information. San Diego Padres Padres Scholars In 1995 the San Diego Padres established a college scholarship program, Padres Scholars, the first of its kind in Major League Baseball. The goal of the program is to empower students who are academically talented yet financially challenged to believe that they can attend college. Nearly 200 Padres players have contributed to the cause, making this a player-focused charitable priority with the Club. Since 2010, the Padres evolved the program from 8th graders receiving $5,000 or $7,500 each to providing $30,000 scholarships to high school seniors headed to a four-year college. This scholarship is awarded over a four-year period and incentivizes the students to keep in contact with the Padres and ensures that the students provide annual academic and citizenship updates. After 18 years, 394 Scholars and $2.35 million (including nearly $1 million directly from uniformed players) has been designated toward scholarships, and the program remains focused on developing an enhanced relationship with the Scholars allowing for increased contact and more oversight of their academic progress. The Padres Scholars scholarship is a competitive and coveted award that teachers, principals and administrators consider a sign of achievement not only for the student but for the teachers and schools as well. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 CLUB ACTIVITIES-EDUCATION Fantasy Baseball is an integrated math program for students in grades 4-8 and is aligned with the Pennsylvania State Exams in the areas of mathematics, reading and physical education. Students learn math skills with baseball statistics in a fun and engaging way from current Pirates players, as well as player cards they create to compete against one another in simulated baseball games and tournaments. The program promotes higher order science, technology, engineering and math skills (STEM), in preparation for mathbased careers. 47 San Francisco Giants Harmon & Sue Burns Scholars Named in honor of the late Giants owners, The Harmon & Sue Burns Scholarship Program provides an incentive to Junior Giants Program participants to achieve goals of higher education while serving as leaders on their teams, at school and in their communities. Ten 8th grade Scholars are selected each summer. The Giants Community Fund mentors them throughout their 8th grade and high school years. Scholars must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA and provide 30 hours of community service annually. Upon successful completion of high school and acceptance to a college or training program, they receive a $2,500 scholarship. CLUB ACTIVITIES-EDUCATION 48 Scholars are invited to college preparedness events. The Road to College Workshop exposes Scholars to a different university each summer. While on campus, Scholars and their families take a tour and hear from admission professionals about college preparation and funding. Scholars are invited to Education Day at AT&T Park, which welcomes the incoming class and honors graduating Scholars in a home plate ceremony. Scholars and their families are invited to attend a college prep presentation, and have a chance to hear from a Giants player about their college experience and the importance of education. Seattle Mariners DREAM Team School Assembly Program The Mariners DREAM Team School Assembly program includes visits to elementary schools throughout the Pacific Northwest each school year. The Mariners DREAM Team is a comprehensive educational program that uses Mariners players, coaches, broadcasters, and the team’s popular mascot, the Mariner Moose, as a vehicle to stress the importance of the DREAM principles: Drug-free, Respect for yourself and others, Education, Attitude, and Motivation to help achieve one’s dreams. In addition to assemblies held throughout the year, the Mariners host an annual team event in May. On May 8, 2012, the Mariners held their fifteenth annual Mariners Education Day. Mariners players, coaches, and broadcasters separated into five groups and visited five Seattle area schools. The Mariners spoke to kids at each school about the importance of education and adhering to the Mariners’ DREAM Team principles. The event enabled the team to deliver a positive message to over 2,500 students in one day. Tampa Bay Rays Doubling Up for Education The Rays Baseball Foundation and Helios Education Foundation partner to provide $1 million in college scholarships to students in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Sarasota, Manatee and Pasco counties participating in the “Take Stock in Children” program. The partnership aims to give students financial resources and the mentorship support they need to successfully achieve a post-secondary education at any Florida state college. Each time a Rays’ player hits a double in a regular season game, Helios donates $600 toward the initiative and the Rays Baseball Foundation matches the gift. “Take Stock in Children” provides a unique opportunity for low-income and at-risk students to escape the cycle of poverty through education. The program’s comprehensive services start in middle school, continue through high school, and help students transition to college. Programs are based on the principle that given extensive support, motivation and accountability, children will work hard to ensure that they graduate from high school and attain a college degree. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 Texas Rangers Richard Greene Scholars Program Scholars are selected as juniors and participate in six six-week internships during their senior year of high school, including an internship with the Texas Rangers. Students are matched with a community leader in their field of interest to serve as a mentor during their senior year. Upon graduation, the students are rewarded with a $10,000 scholarship. In 2010, the University of Texas-Arlington committed to providing full tuition scholarships to any Richard Greene Scholar who chooses to attend the university. Toronto Blue Jays In the Classroom and Rookie League Each season, Toronto Blue Jays players visit elementary schools across the Greater Toronto Area to educate children on the value and benefits of proper nutrition and exercise. As these two elements are such an important part of everyday life for our players, they are able to share meaningful discussions with students on the importance of eating right and obtaining proper amounts of exercise. Not just limited to the classroom, Blue Jays players engage children in games of dodgeball, relay races and water balloon fights to demonstrate that there are countless games that they can play to get the exercise they need. The players also join local nutritionist Jennifer Sygo in the classroom for breakfast and lunch with students to discuss options for healthy, balanced meals. The Blue Jays also strive to educate children outside the classroom. The Jays Care Foundation, in partnership with Toronto Community Housing (TCH) and Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada (BGCC), offers a safe, fun, active and engaging baseball program for children, ages 6-12, living in under-resourced communities. Rookie League is a cost-free program that uses the game of baseball as a foundation to teach children the importance of teamwork, cooperation and self-esteem. Toronto Blue Jays serve as Honorary Captains for each of the Rookie League division and all program sites are provided with shirts, hats, equipment and baseball coaching to facilitate programming. Washington Nationals DC High School Initiative and Youth Baseball Academy For the fourth consecutive year, the Washington Nationals invited every DC Public High School that fields a baseball team to practice at Nationals Park for two hours once during the season at no cost to the school. The Nationals believe that providing this opportunity can inspire local students to continue playing baseball and reaching for their dreams. Additionally, every high school was invited to bring its students out to Nationals Park as part of a game for “DC High School Night.” More than 8,000 DCPS students and faculty requested tickets. All-stars from each school were recognized on the field prior to the game. In regard to providing more incentive for youth to stay involved with baseball, the Washington Nationals Youth Baseball Academy, in partnership with the District Government, offers inner-city youth a safe environment that encourages and enhances academic development. This academic development is promoted while providing the opportunity to learn and play the game of baseball. Located in Ward 7’s Fort Dupont Park, the facility’s three baseball fields and clubhouse will open in 2013. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 CLUB ACTIVITIES-EDUCATION The Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation awards six Richard Greene Scholarships each year to students in the Arlington Independent School District. The Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation has pledged $1 million over 20 years to fund these scholarships in honor of former Arlington Mayor Richard Greene, who served when the Rangers Ballpark in Arlington was being planned and opened. 49 THANK YOU We can’t tell you how much we appreciate what Major League Baseball did for our school-age program this year. You have been instrumental in Operation Breakthrough’s effort to empower at-risk children to succeed in school. Thanks to you and all those who helped, our children will have a bright and wonderful space throughout the summer and during the school year. Operation Breakthrough…Our thanks to you, the 83rd MLB All-Star Game charitable initiatives, Major League Baseball, the Kansas City Royals and other kind friends, for the generous support of projects that will impact the kids who need us most through many years to come. Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City... The RBI program has played a significant part in introducing the Boys & Girls Clubs to the kids in our community who need us most, and now, through the Breaking Barriers essay, has made us more aware of how we can better serve all our members and their families. Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington….I want to express my sincere gratitude for Major League Baseball’s ongoing support of Habitat for Humanity. During the last seven years, MLB’s generosity has helped nearly 50 families obtain decent shelter, and millions of people have been encouraged to join our efforts during the All-Star Game and the World Series Habitat for Humanity…Thank you for your recent contribution to the PHF, Inc. Your donation recognizes our accomplishments and sustains our vision. Your generosity is helping us “fund” a cure for Hydrocephalus. We thank you for your support. Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation, Inc.…Thank you for your contributions…Your gift makes it possible for us to provide our youth with opportunities to play, learn and grow. Harlem RBI…The rebuild event at the KCVA Honor Annex was spectacular and we simply could not have accomplished the project without the support of MLB, Bank of America and the Kansas City Royals…Thank you again for your support and for the opportunity to leave behind an enduring legacy in Kansas City! Rebuilding Together… Thank you so much for Major League Baseball Charities, Inc. recent gift…Your partnership makes a profound difference in the fight against breast cancer. Your support funds community outreach programs and critical research that will bring us closer to our goal of ending breast cancer forever. Susan G. Komen for the Cure…We really appreciate your continued support in our efforts to educate today’s youth on the dangers of steroids. Taylor Hooton Foundation…Major League Baseball Charities’ gift to Starlight is helping to make a world of difference for seriously ill children and their families…Thank you for helping us ensure that no seriously ill child or family ever struggles alone. Starlight Children’s Foundation…Thank you for your donation…With nearly 1,000 family, friends and special guests in attendance, the Benefit Concert was a resounding success thanks to the generosity of individuals like you. Voices Against Brain Cancer…On behalf of the family members involved with the Pentagon Memorial Fund, I would like to thank Major League Baseball Charities, Inc. for the continued support…which continues to help us ensure that the people who lost their lives on September 11, 2001 will never be forgotten, and that future generations have the necessary education resources to learn about the events of that day. Pentagon Memorial Fund, Inc.…On behalf of the Flight 93 National Memorial Campaign, we want to thank you for your gift…Your generous commitment is greatly appreciated and will advance the mission of this historic effort that recognizes a new era of American heroism. Families of Flight 93, Inc. & Flight 93 National Memorial Campaign…On behalf of the New York Urban League, thank you very much for your contribution…Our goal is to ensure that no child or adult who wants to learn, who wants employment, who seeks economic stability and self sufficiency, will not go without education and training, for the lack of financial resources”. New York Urban League…Your support to the Congenital Heart Defect Coalition truly makes a difference in the lives of families touched by America’s number one birth defect – congenital heart defects. On behalf of the children and families that will one day benefit from the money we raised at this event, we are truly grateful! Congenital Heart Defect Coalition…Thank you for your donation to the “Give a Smile to a Child” Foundation Fifth Annual Golf Tournament. Your donation will help make it possible for us to continue to assist families and children who have experienced unforeseen tragedies, provide college scholarships, continue construction at the stadium, help feed the less fortunate, and provide funds to the Palm Beach Gardens Police/Fire Departments “Joy Drive” during the Christmas holidays. “Give a Smile to a Child” Foundation…I just want to say thank you for the most amazing day! It was truly an “over the moon” experience for me. Everyone at MLB and the Miami Marlins were wonderful throughout to me and my family….Thank you for allowing me to be part of your efforts to create awareness. 50 MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 Together we definitely sent the message and touched a number of lives yesterday 2012 Honorary Bat Girl for the Miami Marlins…Thank you for supporting the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD)…We are grateful for your support in shining a light on GLAAD’s work with the media, putting the stories that build support for equality in front of the camera, and taking action to create a world in which everyone is accepted, respected, and valued for who they are. Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation…Thank you for your recent gift to the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF). It is because of your concern and support that PCF is able to continue its mission…We, and the more than 16 million men and their families fighting prostate cancer globally, are grateful for your support. Prostate Cancer Foundation… On behalf of the Jackie Robinson Foundation, and the Scholars we serve, thank you for your gift…Through your gift, JRF will sustain its commitment to develop the leaders of tomorrow. Jackie Robinson Foundation…On September 12, 2011, the Memorial opened to family members, and the following day to the public. Since then we have had more than 1.7 million visitors. Your kind donation will help us sustain the Memorial, and allow us to honor and remember the events of September 11, 2001 and February 26, 1993…Thank you again for this wonderful gift and for all that you have done to help lead the way in creation of this enduring Memorial and Museum. 9/11 Memorial…On behalf of the Wheelchair Foundation, thank you so much for supporting our effort to help those in need. Your generous donation provided many wheelchair recipients and their families with a higher quality of life through improved mobility and new hope. Wheelchair Foundation…I would like to thank you for your generous gift…It’s because of organizations like yours that help our Special Olympics athletes compete without the worries of financial burdens. New Jersey Special Olympics…Thank you for your contribution in support of the 11th Annual Legacy Awards….Your commitment to the NLBM ensures that this chapter of American history is preserved for future generations to learn about and be inspired by. Together, we are saving an invaluable piece of history, and in the process, we are making history. Negro Leagues Baseball Museum…The American Cancer Society thanks you for your contribution…Your generosity is helping us save lives. American Cancer Society…The Wheelchair Sports Federation would like to thank Major League Baseball for your continued generous support…Because of good friends like Major League Baseball, we are able to carry on the programs that are so vital to spinal cord injured people all across the United States. Wheelchair Sports Federation… We sincerely appreciate all that Major League Baseball does to help make a difference in kids’ lives. The brand awareness that you have helped create fortifies our image in the community and serves as a beacon for hope and opportunity for so many. Boys & Girls Clubs of America… Thank you for your support…Your generosity is sincerely appreciated by the March of Dimes. We are extremely fortunate to count on your commitment. March of Dimes. MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013 51 COMMISSIONER OF BASEBALL ALLAN H. (BUD) SELIG EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, BUSINESS TIMOTHY J. BROSNAN CMO/SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, ADVERTISING & MARKETING JACQUELINE D. PARKES VICE PRESIDENT, COMMUNITY AFFAIRS AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING THOMAS C. BRASUELL CONSULTANT, COMMUNITY AFFAIRS AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING SHARON ROBINSON DIRECTOR, COMMUNITY AFFAIRS AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING CELIA BOBROWSKY DIRECTOR, REVIVING BASEBALL IN INNER CITIES (RBI) DAVID JAMES SENIOR COORDINATOR, REVIVING BASEBALL IN INNER CITIES (RBI) KATIE RINGEL COORDINATOR, COMMUNITY AFFAIRS AND EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMING KATHLEEN CASSINO ADMINISTRATOR, COMMUNITY AFFAIRS/ REVIVING BASEBALL IN INNER CITIES (RBI) KEVIN MOSS For More Information Visit www.mlbcommunity.org 245 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10167, 212.931.7800 52 MLB in the Community • Annual Report 2013