Make a Change for Kids with Disabilities

Ever think about how physically and mentally challenged kids participate in everyday things like sports and activities? Kids with physical and mental handicaps were not able to participate in sports until something called The Miracle League was formed because of their disability. Now kids can participate in everyday sports with their friends and not have to worry about how they are going to get around with their handicap.

The Rockdale Youth Baseball Association (RYBA) formed the Miracle League in 1997. It was formed to further its mission of providing opportunities for all children to play baseball regardless of their ability. Even though it is a game of baseball, there are some different rules. For example: every player bats once an inning, no one can be thrown out on a base, every player must score a run before the inning is over (the last one up to bat gets a home run automatically), a “buddy” system is recommended to be used, and there are no winners or losers. With the help of community volunteers and companies, the design and construction of the first Miracle League complex was completed in April of 2000. The complex included a custom-designed field with a cushioned rubberized surface to help prevent injuries, wheelchair accessible dugouts, and a completely flat surface to eliminate any barriers to wheelchair- bound or visually impaired players. The design also included three grass fields, which could be converted to the synthetic rubber surface as the league grew.

The Miracle League is an amazing opportunity for mentally and physically challenged kids to be able to learn how to play an actually sport and without having to worry about their disability. With the help from community volunteers and companies, these kids can continue learning what it is like to play an actually sport without having the judgment of being in a wheelchair or having to use a walker affect them. It will also continue to boost their confidence level so they do not think down about themselves because of their disability. It will allow them to think of themselves as regular people. Every kid deserves to be treated the same and not to be judged on their disabilities are. The Miracle League gives them this chance.

There are so many ways to help The Miracle League. First off, volunteering time and be a “buddy” to one of the players. Just to hear one kid’s story is a life changing experience, and they will be eternally touched to know that someone cares enough about the organization to give up their free time to help them. If volunteering is not possible, a donation of money or gear is also an option. Since these are kids with disabilities that are being dealt with, there are so many medical bills to pay just to allow them to stay healthy enough to actually play baseball with their peers. Thirdly, a team of physically and/or mentally challenged kids can be formed and be brought to Miracle League. The Miracle League does not turn anyone down no matter the situation. There is always room for kids to come and join.

All in all, The Miracle League is an amazing organization dedicated to helping out physically and/or mentally challenged kids learn how to play the sport of baseball. By having this organization, it allows the kids to forget that they have a disability for a short time and just have fun for once. It is an excellent idea for you to donate to this charity because it is helping out physically and mentally challenged kids.