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Major League Baseball
 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 BGCA 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.
The dynamic RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) program has created baseball
and softball leagues in more than 200 communities worldwide, creating
opportunities for thousands of kids each year. All RBI leagues incorporate
SportSMART, a special life skills curriculum adapted from BGCA's SMART Moves
program, to teach young players about responsible behavior and decision-making.
In 2010, Major League Baseball and Boys & Girls Clubs of America will launch a
new national fitness program called MLB Wanna Play?TM. The program
will allow co-ed youth ages 6-12 to improve their health and fitness while
learning the fundamental skills of baseball through fun and enriching
activities.
Each year, BGCA enjoys nationwide exposure through an MLB-produced public
service campaign featuring players and Club youth that is televised nationally
and locally. These popular spots generate invaluable awareness for the Boys &
Girls Club brand. In addition to the advertising campaign valued at $25 million
plus annually, BGCA has benefited from some $20 million in direct and indirect
funding generated by Major League Baseball over the last decade.
A key reason for the relationship's success is the deep, personal connection so
many big leaguers have with Boys & Girls Clubs. Club alumni include past greats
like Joe DiMaggio, Frank Robinson, Joe Morgan, Brooks Robinson, and Harold
Reynolds and current stars such as Alex Rodriguez, Dontrelle Willis, David
Ortiz, Ryan Howard and Dan Haren. Others like Hank Aaron, Cal Ripken Jr. and
Ken Griffey Jr., actively support today's Clubs.
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33% of all Boys & Girls Clubs are located in schools.
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