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Major League Baseball and Boys & Girls Club of America Kids and baseball – it's a natural fit. That's why the partnership between Major League Baseball and Boys & Girls Clubs of America is such a winning combination. Since MLB designated Boys & Girls Clubs of America as its official charity in 1997, this highly successful relationship has given countless children the chance to realize their dreams both on and off the field. MLB's commitment to kids and BGCA is deep and far-reaching. From high impact programs introducing kids to baseball, to national awareness campaigns, to once-in-a-lifetime experiences for Club members, the multi-faceted partnership has positively impacted the entire Boys & Girls Club Movement.
A Winning Team Each year, BGCA enjoys nationwide exposure through an MLB-produced public service campaign featuring players and Club youth that airs nationally on FOX, ESPN, TBS and many local networks. MLB also produces print and radio public service campaigns. Moreover – and not counting the projected value of the PSA campaigns – BGCA has benefited from nearly $20 million in direct and indirect funding generated by Major League Baseball over the last eight years. Part of the reason for the relationship's success is the deep, personal connection so many past and present big leaguers have with Boys & Girls Clubs. Individual teams and players work directly with local Clubs by mentoring, volunteering and contributing in a variety of ways. That's not surprising, since many baseball greats got their start at a Club. And so many continue to carry fond memories of growing up in a Club in their hearts. "The streets were there, but, for my sake, so was the Boys & Girls Club," said Alex Rodriguez, the New York Yankees superstar who spent his formative years at the Hank Kline Boys & Girls Club in Miami. Not only does A-Rod continue to support his childhood Club, he also serves as a national spokesperson for BGCA. BGCA's Board of Governors, the governing body of the organization, includes two baseball legends: Hall of Famer Hank Aaron and current star Ken Griffey Jr. "What young people take from the Club can change their lives forever and help to change the world," said Aaron, baseball's all-time home run king. The partnership has included many unforgettable moments: In 1998, MLB Commissioner Bud Selig received BGCA's highest honor, the Herbert Hoover Humanitarian Award. Just this past June, one of the strongest advocates of the BGCA partnership, Tom Brasuell, MLB's vice president of Community Affairs and a former member of the Harriman Clubhouse of the Boys' Club of New York, was inducted into BGCA's Alumni Hall of Fame. "I grew up in a Club, worked in a Club and still go back to the Club," said Brasuell. "I know what a Club can do for kids and I know what it means for kids to have a positive place." At that same event, MLB was presented with BGCA's Champion of Youth Award in recognition of its outstanding support. back to top |
