A L AN NU R EPORT BACKGROUND

BACKGROUND Minor League , collectively and through its individual members, has a rich history of community involvement, charitable works and civil leadership. Through these ongoing efforts, our clubs and leagues have distinguished themselves within their communities, and with municipalities, sponsors and fans. The Charity Partners program was developed against this backdrop to bring increased awareness to national charities that were engaging with Minor League Baseball on a local level. The 2016 Minor League Baseball Charity Partners were The American Cancer Society, The ALS Association and Big Brothers Big Sisters.

The BairFind Foundation and Ed Randall’s Fans for the Cure were Homegrown Charity Partners in 2016. Fans for the Cure has worked closely with Minor League Baseball and its member clubs since 2009, leading to this special designation. The BairFind Foundation, with the mission of finding missing children, was added as a Homegrown Charity Partner in 2016.

Minor League Baseball operates MiLB Charities, a tax exempt 501(c)(3) charitable organization affiliated with The National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues, Inc. (NAPBL). MiLB Charities is a vehicle through which association-wide efforts can be streamlined in support of charitable causes important to the extended Minor League Baseball family through donations, scholarships and by providing relief when tragedy or hardship occurs in our clubs’ cities and communities.

“The mission of Minor League Baseball Charities is to give back to and enhance communities that have supported our member clubs for over 100 years. When hardship strikes one of our member cities and surrounding communities, we will be there to provide a positive example that will impact the communities in which we live and work. Minor League Baseball Charities will set an example by working with established charities for the greater good and by identifying worthy causes for support through the central office along with the aid of our member clubs.”

Annually, Minor League Baseball surveys each team and league to measure our industry’s collective level of participation through gift-in-kind and cash donations, and events that support various charities in our ballparks. The online survey and website allows teams and leagues to update their charitable activities throughout the year and upload pictures directly to the site. This information can later be used by individual leagues to produce community benefit reports. In 2016, 160 clubs responded to the survey, yielding the following results:

2016 TOTAL CHARITABLE 2016 TOTAL CHARITABLE CASH DONATIONS GIFTS-IN-KIND FROM M iLB TEAMS AND LEAGUES FROM M iLB TEAMS AND LEAGUES $17,509,015 $21,463,590

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2 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT MiLB CHARITIES IN ACTION

MiLB CHARITIES IN ACTION Minor League Baseball Charities supports dozens of charitable organizations and events throughout the year, based on available funds and resources. When reviewing requests, one of the many criteria MiLB Charities considers is the connection of the charity to our organization’s mission. Youth Baseball Leagues for Underserved Communities For the seventh consecutive year, Minor League Baseball Charities supported the Long Ball Program in Durham, North Carolina. This program promotes athletic, academic and personal development opportunities for inner city youth ages 13-18. The six-month season features three months for clinics before three months of games, and concluding with an end of the year banquet for all players. Other opportunities were provided to the athletes throughout the year including baseball skill camps, mentoring programs, social events and life skills seminars. The players also host free conditioning clinics for the younger baseball programs in Durham. Minor League Baseball has supported the Cedar Rapids League of Dreams for the past seven years. The League of Dreams is an instructional, non-competitive, coach-pitch league open to current second and third grade students from 10 area grade schools, located in economically challenged areas. Coaches emphasize teamwork, sportsmanship and the importance of an active lifestyle in a relaxed and fun environment. The free to play league lasts six weeks and provides boys and girls the opportunity to participate in an organized baseball program. The program begins with two weeks of practice followed by four weeks of games. It also includes an All-Star Game and picnic held at Veterans Memorial Stadium, home of the Cedar Rapids Kernels, and concludes with the teams being recognized during a ceremony prior to a Kernels game. Keep On Playing Throughout the 2016 season, MiLB Charities joined Keep On Playing, an organization dedicated to enriching the lives of our youth through playing baseball, to host a number of free baseball clinics in conjunction with the Fort Myers Miracle, Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp and Akron RubberDucks. Players from each club visited local Boys and Girls Clubs in underserved areas to teach the children baseball basics, leadership skills, donate baseball equipment and sign autographs. In addition, the children who participated in the free clinics were invited to a Minor League Baseball game that including a free meal, drink and snacks.

3 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT MiLB CHARITIES IN ACTION

Jackie Robinson Celebration Game at Historic Dodgertown The Jackie Robinson Celebration Game is a nationally-recognized minor league game held on April 15, at Historic Dodgertown to celebrate the achievements of Jackie Robinson. The 2016 game featured the ’s Brevard County Manatees and St. Lucie Mets. All ticket proceeds from the game benefited the United Way of Indian River County. Eighty-four children from the Gifford Youth Achievement Center were given the opportunity to attend the game, and Minor League Baseball Charities donated tickets, food and drinks. MiLB President & CEO Pat O’Conner was also present to recognize Jackie Robinson Scholarship recipient Edmond Charette.

West Virginia Flood Relief In June, a number of destructive floods inundated portions of West Virginia, resulting in the third-deadliest flood in the history of the state. One of the many areas affected by the floods was Richwood, West Virginia, and the Cherry District Little League, which plays in City Park Field. Between 100- 150 kids play on this field annually, and it serves as a source of pride and enjoyment for the citizens of this small town. The Minor League Baseball community came together and donated over $6,000 to support the repair of the field, and restoration of the fences, dugouts and a concession stand.

Pro-State Foundation Father’s Day Initiative On Sunday, June 19, 54 Minor League Baseball teams playing at home participated in the Pro-State Foundation Father’s Day initiative. The Derrick Hall Pro-State Foundation, founded by Arizona Diamondbacks President & CEO Derrick Hall, serves as a comprehensive tool for those who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer and their families to help them understand the challenges and choices they face. The Father’s Day initiative included a mini-bat keychain giveaway, customized brochures about the importance of cancer screening and a custom-engraved Louisville Slugger Father’s Day commemorative bat for each club to present to a qualifying individual.

National Licensing Program Partnerships For the seventh consecutive year, New Era Cap Company partnered with Minor League Baseball to produce a commemorative stars and stripes logo cap to be worn on-field by the players and sold to fans in the team stores during the Fourth of July weekend. Royalties from MiLB and MLB were donated to Welcome Back Veterans, whose goal is to assist returning veterans and their families with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and job needs. In 2016, 128 teams participated in this program.

4 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT MiLB CHARITIES IN ACTION

Esurance Rising Star Students In August, Minor League Baseball and Esurance teamed up with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America to award 14 “Esurance Rising Star Students” with a $5,000 stipend to prepare them for their “call up” to college. In addition to the stipend, the “Esurance Rising Star Students” were recognized in an on-field ceremony at their hometown Minor League Baseball ballpark. 2016 participating clubs included: , Birmingham Barons, El Paso Chihuahuas, Greensboro Grasshoppers, Iowa Cubs, Louisville Bats, Nashville Sounds, Oklahoma City Dodgers, Reading Fightin Phils, , Sacramento River Cats, Salt Lake Bees, Scranton/Wilkes- Barre RailRiders and Toledo Mudhens.

MiLB CommUNITY In the face of national events and tension in communities across the country, Minor League Baseball ballparks continue to provide an escape and be a place of fun and enjoyment. The MiLB CommUNITY initiative was created to encourage fans to be a positive influence among their family, peers and within their communities. Over two weeks in August, MiLB clubs stood together as one CommUNITY to create a positive environment within their ballparks and on social media. Clubs participated by providing fans, players and staff signs to express what CommUNITY means to them, reading PA announcements, honoring local heroes and service members that promote community unity, and much more.

5 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT MiLB CHARITIES IN ACTION

Community Service Project at Children’s of Alabama – Birmingham, AL In conjunction with the annual Minor League Baseball Promotional Seminar, MiLB Charities coordinates a community service project in the host city. On Sept. 27, more than 100 attendees volunteered their morning at Children’s of Alabama, the third largest pediatric medical facility in the U.S. located just blocks from Regions Field. Volunteer activities included the assembly and decoration of wagons for patient transport, arts and crafts with the patients and a tour of the facility. The event was presented by MiLB Charities and Musco Sports Lighting.

View a video of the event here (courtesy of the Birmingham Barons) http://www.milb.com/multimedia/vpp.jsp?content_id=1202398883&sid=t247

MiLB Charities Silent Auction MiLB Charities hosted a silent auction at the 2016 Minor League Baseball Promotional Seminar in Birmingham, Alabama. The auction featured donated items from Minor League Baseball clubs, trade show exhibitors, sponsors and partners. A total of 52 items were collected and auctioned at the event held during a cocktail party on the trade show floor. The event raised $16,385. Top auction items included: • $25,000 Musco Sports Lighting package • AMI Graphics signage credit • Bryce Harper game used autographed baseball • Three-night stay at Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort in Curacao

Best Community Promotion or Event Golden Bobblehead Award The Golden Bobblehead Awards are presented each year at the Minor League Baseball Promotional Seminar. The Best Community Promotion or Event is awarded to the club that hosts the best charitable or community-related program, event or in-game promotion as voted by attendees. The winning club is given the opportunity select a non-profit organization of its choice to receive a $1,000 donation from MiLB Charities. The 2016 winner was the Eugene Emeralds for their work with Children’s Miracle Network and Honorary Player Hayden Kumle. The Emeralds chose the Children’s Miracle Network to receive the $1,000 donation.

6 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT MiLB CHARITIES IN ACTION

Mike Coolbaugh Award and Scholarship 2016 marked the ninth year that the Mike Coolbaugh Award has been presented to an individual who has shown an outstanding baseball work ethic, knowledge of the game and skill in mentoring young players on the field. This year’s recipient was Donald ‘Spin’ Williams, Senior Advisor of Player Development for the Washington Nationals. MiLB Charities donated $2,500 to college scholarship funds for each of Mike’s surviving children, as part of its $75,000 10-year pledge. Minor League Baseball staff members also participated in the annual Coolbaugh Memorial Tournament in San Antonio, Texas, on Nov. 18.

John Henry Moss Community Service Award The John Henry Moss Community Service Award is presented to a club that demonstrates an outstanding, ongoing commitment to charitable service, support and leadership within its local community and within the baseball industry. The award was created in 2013 by Minor League Baseball in honor of the late John Henry Moss, who founded what would become the South Atlantic League in 1959 and headed the circuit until 2007. New for 2016, MiLB Charities also donated $2,500 to the charitable organization of the winning club’s choice. The 2016 winner was the Round Rock Express of the , and they chose the Nolan Ryan Foundation as the beneficiary of the donation.

The Charles K. Murphy Patriot Award The Charles K. Murphy Patriot award is presented to a team or individual in Minor League Baseball for outstanding support of the United States Armed Forces and veterans, both at the ballpark and in the community. The award was created in 2016 in honor of the longtime Florida State League president and U.S. Army veteran who passed away Feb. 21, 2015, at the age of 83. In addition to the award, MiLB Charities donated $2,500 to the organization of the winner’s choice. The 2016 winner was the Charleston RiverDogs of the South Atlantic League, and they chose The Warriors Surf Foundation as the beneficiary of the donation.

Baseball Winter Meetings - CommUNITY Booth MiLB Charities continued its presence at the Baseball Winter Meetings in National Harbor, Maryland, by hosting an MiLB CommUNITY Booth at the Baseball Trade Show. Attendees were encouraged to take a photo in the CommUNITY photo booth and post it on social media with the hashtag #MiLBCommUNITY. As a part of this initiative, MiLB Charities gave back to the local community hosting the Baseball Winter Meeting by donating $1,000 to both the Capitol Area Food Bank and the Bowie Health Center Foundation.

7 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITY PARTNERS: CLUB AND LEAGUE SUPPORT

Employee Volunteer Program Minor League Baseball staff gave back to their local Tampa Bay community by participating in various group volunteer activities throughout 2016. Over 200 volunteer hours were donated with activities including facility cleanup at the Big Cat Rescue in Tampa, Florida, painting at the Boys & Girls Club in Pinellas Park, Florida and cleaning and restocking at Metropolitan Ministries in Tampa, Florida.

MiLB Charities Online Auction During the 2016 season, MiLB Charities hosted an online auction offering one-of-a-kind items donated by the teams. Top items included a Chris Davis autographed jersey, an A.J. Reed autographed bat and a Kane County Cougars VIP suite package.

From April to August, the auction raised $4,955.

Charitable Organizations throughout the Country Throughout the year, MiLB Charities is contacted by different organizations requesting donations for silent auctions, raffles, fundraisers, etc. MiLB Charities works within its means to provide items to these organizations if the organization meets the overall goals and objectives of MiLB Charities. Some of the organizations that received support in 2016 include: • All American Girls Professional Baseball League • Baseball for All • Baseball Assistance Team • Bay Pines VA Healthcare Systems • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay • East Palo Alto T-Ball • Miracle League of Manasota • Professional Baseball Scouts Foundation • Raleigh Hot Stove League • UMPS CARE • United Way of Indian River County • USO Nashville

8 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITY PARTNERS: CLUB AND LEAGUE SUPPORT

American Cancer Society The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of 2.5 million volunteers saving lives and fighting for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. As the largest voluntary health organization, the Society’s efforts have contributed to a 22 percent decline in cancer death rates in the U.S. since 1991, and a 50 percent drop in smoking rates. The Society has programs and services to help people with cancer and their loved ones understand cancer, manage their lives through treatment and recovery, and find the emotional support they need. And best of all, all services are free. The American Cancer Society launched the “Grand Slam Against Cancer” campaign in 2016 that gave MiLB teams a variety of options to raise awareness and support their cause. This included but was not limited to breast cancer and women’s health awareness around Mother’s Day, prostate cancer and men’s health awareness around Father’s Day, Childhood Cancer Awareness and more. Many clubs also hosted Relay for Life events, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks, jersey auctions and more, all benefiting their local American Cancer Society chapter.

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY EVENT SPOTLIGHT:

In conjunction with the American Cancer Society, the Fresno Grizzlies established The Tony D Awards Program in honor of Manager Tony DeFrancesco, one of the winningest managers in Minor League Baseball and a cancer survivor. The recognition ceremony took place on Tony DeFrancesco Night on Aug. 27, at Chukchansi Park, along with a check presentation to the American Cancer Society. DeFrancesco was bestowed the first-annual “Tony D” award bearing his nickname, in recognition of overcoming colon cancer. Moving forward, the honor will be awarded by the Fresno Grizzlies at the conclusion of each season to someone locally that has overcome and/or is doing his or her best to raise funds to combat cancer and help find a cure.

9 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITY PARTNERS: CLUB AND LEAGUE SUPPORT

The ALS Association The ALS Association (ALSA) is the only national non-profit organization fighting Lou Gehrig’s Disease on every front. By leading the way in global research, providing assistance for people with ALS through a nationwide network of chapters, coordinating multidisciplinary care through certified clinical care centers, and fostering government partnerships, The Association builds hope and enhances quality of life while aggressively searching for new treatments and a cure. The ALS Association is one of the original members of the Minor League Baseball Charity Partners Program. The ALS Association continued its program in 2016 by focusing efforts to increase awareness of the National ALS Registry. The Association had themed ALS nights such as Ice Bucket Challenge and Military Appreciation Nights at ballparks across the country. The ALS Association provided materials for the teams to download to advertise the event, along with promotional giveaways for each awareness night. The majority of club support for The ALS Association was through awareness nights and separate ticket donations to local chapters. Additional club support included providing concourse tables and PA announcements to help promote local events and the National ALS Registry.

THE ALS ASSOCIATION EVENT SPOTLIGHT: TENNESSEE SMOKIES

The Tennessee Smokies honored Lou Gehrig’s famous speech by naming The ALS Association the charity of the game on July 5. The night included an ALSA booth in the concourse, segments of Lou Gehrig’s famous speech played pregame on the videoboard and a first pitch by Monica Hancock, Miss Tennessee USA, sporting an ALSA T-shirt. In addition, a representative from ALSA did a radio interview with the broadcast team and all fans received ALS logo stress balls after the game.

10 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITY PARTNERS: CLUB AND LEAGUE SUPPORT

Big Brothers Big Sisters The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) is to help at-risk children achieve their full potential through professionally-supported one-to-one mentoring. Research shows conclusively that kids who are matched with adult mentors through Big Brothers Big Sisters are much less likely to miss school, use drugs or get arrested. They show stronger performance in their school work, and get along better with their peers and their families. These positive effects ripple outward through families, schools and communities everywhere. The results benefit us all. The majority of club support for Big Brothers Big Sisters was through ticket donations to local agencies. When tickets were donated, it was often in connection with a BBBS awareness night at the ballpark. Additional club support included concourse tables and PA announcements during games. During these nights, “Bigs” and “Littles” often participated in on-field promotions at the game. Clubs also support Big Brothers Big Sisters by donating items for auctions, giving “Littles” the opportunity to serve as bat boys/girls for each game, providing mascot and player appearances for special events and donating portions of the 50/50 raffle done nightly at ballparks. Clubs also let “Bigs” and “Littles” on the field during batting practice where they had the chance to play catch on the field before games. Front office personnel volunteered as mentors for their local agencies by serving as “Bigs.” Staffs also participated in golf tournaments and other fundraising events throughout the year including Bowl for Kids’ Sake.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS EVENT SPOTLIGHT: QUAD CITIES RIVER BANDITS

The River Bandits attend and host numerous BBBS events at Modern Woodmen Park throughout the year. In addition, Bandits staff members volunteered each day of the week-long BBBB Annual Plant Sale and played an integral part in planning the 10th Annual Putt-A- Round. The Putt-A-Round featured putt-putt holes designed and built by local businesses at a full-length miniature golf course. River Bandits’ staff managed the team’s hole, which included a replica of the Centennial Bridge and the Ferris Wheel. In 2016, the event raised over $50,000 with more than 1,500 participants.

11 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITY PARTNERS: CLUB AND LEAGUE SUPPORT

The BairFind Foundation The BairFind Foundation, founded in Jacksonville, Florida, is a 501(c)(3) non- profit organization with the goal of getting the public involved in the search for missing children. The Concourse Sign Project works with professional sports teams to keep profiles of missing children in public view. By placing profiles of missing children on sturdy 4-by-4 foot wooden A-frame signs on stadium concourses, fans frequently walk by the sign and see the pictures of missing children. This aids in the idea of “more eyes looking means more children found and brought home.” During the 2016 season, 139 clubs participated in the BairFind Concourse Sign Project. Signs were constructed and shipped to the teams by AMI Graphics, Inc., thanks to funding from MiLB Charities. Throughout 2016, more than 500 missing children were featured in MiLB ballparks. 163 of the featured children were safely located in the summer of 2016, raising the overall total of featured children found with MiLB to 233 since the inception of the Concourse Sign Project in 2014. In addition to the Concourse Sign Project, The BairFind Foundation launched social media campaigns to further raise awareness and draw attention to each team’s efforts in joining the search for missing kids. At the Baseball Winter Meetings in National Harbor, Maryland in December, MiLB President & CEO Pat O’Conner awarded both BairFind Foundation founder Dennis Bair and CEO Ellen Sullivan with the Presidential Citation Award in recognition of the organization’s mission to relocate missing children and reuniting them with their families.

BAIRFIND FOUNDATION EVENT SPOTLIGHT: JACKSONVILLE JUMBO SHRIMP

As the BairFind Foundation’s hometown team, the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp are uniquely positioned to support the organization both at the ballpark and in their community. In Sept. 2016, the Jacksonville club stood with the BairFind Foundation as the organization was recognized by Jacksonville City Council.

12 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITY PARTNERS: CLUB AND LEAGUE SUPPORT

Ed Randall’s Fans for the Cure Ed Randall’s Fans for the Cure strives to use the world of sports and athletes as a vehicle to increase prostate cancer awareness in men, as well as educate them and the people who love them about the most current techniques in treatment, prevention and early detection. The majority of club support for Ed Randall’s Fan for the Cure was through public service announcements during games, both in-stadium and during on-air broadcasts. On some occasions, clubs offered prostate cancer screenings at the ballpark free of charge to their fans. Clubs also supported the organization by hosting auctions of autographed memorabilia with all proceeds going to the cause. Clubs had their players wear blue wristbands in honor of Fans for the Cure during select games. During the 2016 Baseball Trade Show held in National Harbor, Maryland, Minor League Baseball donated space for Ed Randall’s Fan for the Cure to set up a booth for screenings. The screening involved completing a questionnaire and a blood draw. The booth was available during Baseball Trade Show hours and was free of charge to anyone who wanted to participate.

ED RANDALL’S FANS FOR THE CURE EVENT SPOTLIGHT: DANVILLE BRAVES

The Danville Braves hosted Ed Randall’s Fans for the Cure at their game on Aug. 30, to bring awareness to prostate cancer and the importance of early screening. Averett University baseball coaches and players were on hand to help out at the booth, including Head Coach Ed Fulton and Assistant Coach Kenny Fleming, a former Danville Braves player.

In addition to the numerous events and organizations hosted at Minor League Baseball ballparks across the country, member clubs and leagues reported donating nearly $454,502 in cash and gifts-in-kind to our Charity Partners.

13 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT DONATION FIGURES

MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL OVERALL CASH DONATIONS OVERALL GIFTS-IN-KIND 18 $17,509,015

$15,928,067 16 24

$21,463,590

14 $13,392,875 21

12 18 $16,690,709

10 $9,550,001 15 $13,956,649

8 $7,827,836 12 $10,489,989

6 9 Dollars (in millions) Dollars (in millions) Dollars

$6,073,829 4 6

2 3

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

# Clubs # Clubs Reported 111 124 155 160 160 Reported 111 124 155 160 160

MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITY PARTNER CASH DONATIONS CHARITY PARTNER GIFTS-IN-KIND 425 80 $73,136 $381,366$381,366 350 60 $277,313 275 $266,915$266,915

200 40 $38,295 $38,423

125 Dollars (in thousands) Dollars

Dollars (in thousands) Dollars $97,359 20 $19,816 $55,091 50 $10,934

2012 2013 2014 20152015 20162016 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

# Clubs # Clubs 111 124 155 160 160 Reported 111 124 155 160 160 Reported

14 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT RESOURCES

RESOURCES Charities.MiLB.net Clubs and leagues are encouraged to upload photos and stories, and report donations, throughout the entire season about their charitable activities. This information is invaluable to clubs, leagues and Minor League Baseball in telling our story and showcasing the impact teams have on their communities to fans, potential sponsors and government officials. It is for these reasons that we request all teams participate. Teams and leagues can also use this resource to access the past year’s submissions. MiLB.net Clubs and leagues can download MiLB Charities and Minor League Baseball Charity Partners resources to use throughout the season. Resources on the pages include advertisements, logos, PSAs, promotional ideas and local contacts for Charity Partners. Information from other charitable organizations that our teams may choose to support is also available. MiLBCharities.com This resource allows the public to see the events with which MiLB Charities is involved throughout the year. The page also links directly to each of the Minor League Baseball Charity Partners sites and has a direct link to make online donations to MiLB Charities.

MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES COMMITTEE This committee works to promote the growth and recognition of Minor League Baseball Charities, Minor League Baseball Charity Partners and the charitable contributions of member leagues and clubs on a national and local level. Courtney Jantz – Assistant Director, Special Events and Programming, MiLB Ben Hayes – President, New York-Penn League Eric Krupa – President, South Atlantic League Joe McEacharn – President, Eastern League Mike Nutter – President, Fort Wayne TinCaps Branch Rickey – President, Pacific Coast League Ken Young – President, Norfolk Tides

Minor League Baseball would like to thank the following partners for their support of MiLB Charities:

15 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT INTERNATIONAL LEAGUE CONTRIBUTIONS

TOTAL INTERNATIONAL LEAGUE CONTRIBUTION $3,973,059

CLUB SPOTLIGHT: DURHAM BULLS

Pokémon GO Event In the wake of the Pokémon GO craze, the Bulls became the first sports team to open up their stadium strictly to allow fans to play the app. The team came up with the idea just prior to first pitch on a Sunday evening, and the event was held fewer than 48 hours later on a Tuesday afternoon. In addition to the national headlines it received in publications like Sports Illustrated, The New York Daily News and Bleacher Report (among others), the two-hour event drew over 650 fans, while all proceeds from the event ($3,000) were donated to Second Chance Pet Adoptions. During the event, ‘trainers’ had access to the stadium’s playing surface, dugouts and concourse, while Pokémon music blasted from the speakers and Pokémon graphics appeared on the stadium’s video board.

16 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT PACIFIC COAST LEAGUE CONTRIBUTIONS

TOTAL PACIFIC COAST LEAGUE CONTRIBUTION $5,495,330

CLUB SPOTLIGHT:

Partnership with the New Orleans Mission Homeless Shelter The New Orleans Mission is a homeless shelter that is located in downtown New Orleans. The Mission has a year-long program for the homeless to be introduced back into society. They do this by giving the homeless a place to stay, eat, shower and sleep, and the resources to find a job. The Baby Cakes partnered with the mission with a common goal, to help the homeless by giving them a job. The Baby Cakes hired six of the homeless citizens that were in their year-long program to be a part of their game day staff as ushers. The homeless shelter provided transportation for the users from downtown to the stadium.

17 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT EASTERN LEAGUE CONTRIBUTIONS

TOTAL EASTERN LEAGUE CONTRIBUTION $4,615,840

CLUB SPOTLIGHT: ALTOONA CURVE

Hope to Dream The Curve partnered with Ashley Homestore’s “Hope To Dream” program to surprise 36 area children with brand new beds. Working with the Blair County Community Action Agency to find local families in need, those selected attended a game on July 17. In the morning, families were given breakfast while they signed in, picked up their game tickets and received tickets to the amusement park adjacent to PNG Field. After breakfast, Curve players signed special shirts that were donated by a local printer and posed for photographs. The families watched the game from field level seats and then went to the amusement park while the folks from Ashley set up the beds on the upper concourse. After the game, the kids were lead upstairs and surprised with new beds, sheets, comforters, pillows, teddy bears and bags including Curve and snacks. One child was so excited she told an Ashley employee she was happy she “wouldn’t have to sleep on a bed with springs sticking out of it anymore.” Those who couldn’t transport the beds had them delivered for free. The total amount donated for the program by Ashley and the Curve was $16,018.

18 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT SOUTHERN LEAGUE CONTRIBUTIONS

TOTAL SOUTHERN LEAGUE CONTRIBUTION $2,111,433

CLUB SPOTLIGHT: BIRMINGHAM BARONS

Autism Friendly Day On May 1, the Barons were proud to host their third annual “Autism Friendly Day” at Regions Field. The goal of this promotion was to provide a safe, friendly environment for individuals affected by autism, while also raising awareness for the disorder through educational information provided by each of the organizations involved. The Barons adjusted their gameday atmosphere and game promotions to meet these goals. They provided a safe and enjoyable outing for people who are on the autism spectrum, along with their families who rarely are able to enjoy an entertainment experience such as a baseball game. This year, the team sported autism awareness puzzle piece jerseys that were auctioned off via silent auction. The jersey auction benefitted the Autism Friendly Committee, who helped provide tickets for those on the autism spectrum, as well as their families.

19 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT CONTRIBUTIONS

TOTAL TEXAS LEAGUE CONTRIBUTION $2,155,999

CLUB SPOTLIGHT: FRISCO ROUGHRIDERS

Salute to 8-Bits and Arcades Night (benefitting the Assist the Officer Foundation) On July 8, the Frisco RoughRiders held Salute to 8-Bits and Arcade Night as Dr. Pepper Ballpark was transformed into a retro arcade. Headlining the night was the wildly- praised Game Boy-inspired jerseys. The Riders featured classic arcade machines, recreated classic video games on-field, retro console giveaways and video game themed clips on the videoboard. Fireworks set to video game music capped off the night. This night garnered international acclaim being featured in Sports Illustrated, on ESPN, TMZ, Yahoo, FoxSports, SportsDay, among others. It also transcended baseball, connecting with gamers worldwide, being highlighted on some of the world’s leading video game websites such as Kotaku, NintendoLife, GoNintendo, and Nintendojo. Sadly, a day before the event, 5 Dallas police officers lost their lives protecting their community. Because of the timing, 8-Bits and Arcades Night became more than a tribute to gaming, it was tribute to the city. Fans had the opportunity to donate to the Assist the Officer Foundation through a silent auction for Game Boy-inspired jerseys, along with special Dallas PD hats worn on-field. The night raised over $30,000 for the Assist the Officer Foundation.

20 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT CALIFORNIA LEAGUE CONTRIBUTIONS

TOTAL CALIFORNIA LEAGUE CONTRIBUTION $4,985,953

CLUB SPOTLIGHT: INLAND EMPIRE 66ERS

San Bernardino Strong On Dec. 2, 2015, tragedy struck the city of San Bernardino when 14 people were killed and 21 others injured after two terrorists attacked the Inland Regional Center. San Manuel Stadium, home of 66ers Baseball, became the location for the community to gather and become SB Strong. Continuing their commitment to the community into 2016, the Inland Empire 66ers and the San Jose Giants wore SB Strong themed Jersey on April 15 in remembrance of the tragedy and those who lost their lives that day. Throughout the game, first responders, families of victims and survivors were honored. Revenue from tickets purchased by San Bernardino County employees were donated, along with a jersey auction and other in-game opportunities, totaling $7,495 in donations to the cause. Overall, $74,115.26 was raised for the victims and their families through events held at San Manuel Stadium.

21 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT CAROLINA LEAGUE CONTRIBUTIONS

TOTAL CAROLINA LEAGUE CONTRIBUTION $2,146,348

CLUB SPOTLIGHT: FREDERICK KEYS

Bike 4 A Cause Two out-of-shape Frederick Keys broadcasters got some exercise on the Keys’ Family Fitness Weekend while doing their jobs and helping out a great cause. From first pitch until the end of regulation, the Frederick play-by-play team of Geoff Arnold and Doug Raftery called a game from exercise bikes on the third base concourse as a part of “Bike 4 A Cause.” Not only were Geoff and Doug be forced to avoid ballpark food for the day, but bragging rights were on the line, as whoever went the most miles, would be the champion. Arnold was the eventual winner traveling just short of 25 miles, but the real winner was the Boys and Girls Club of Frederick County. In the two weeks leading up to the race, both broadcasters raised $1,100 dollars by setting up GoFundMe pages. That $1,100 total was doubled by Keys partner Anytime Fitness of Ballenger Creek, totaling $2,200 donated to the Boys and Girls Club.

22 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT FLORIDA STATE LEAGUE CONTRIBUTIONS

TOTAL FLORIDA STATE LEAGUE CONTRIBUTION $1,066,228

CLUB SPOTLIGHT: ST. LUCIE METS

First Responder Appreciation Night The St. Lucie Mets hosted their 1st First Responder Appreciation Night at Tradition Field in 2016. The local sheriff’s office, police departments, and ems/fire departments all sold tickets, with a portion of those tickets benefiting the Hundred Club, which helps retired/disabled first responders and their families. Over 1,200 fans came to the ballpark to show their appreciation and support of local heroes while all retired and active first responders in attendance were recognized on- field during a pre-game ceremony. In addition, the chiefs of each department were on hand to throw out the first pitch.

23 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT MIDWEST LEAGUE CONTRIBUTIONS

TOTAL MIDWEST LEAGUE CONTRIBUTION $5,104,120

CLUB SPOTLIGHT: WISCONSIN TIMBER RATTLERS

Harry Potter & Strike Out Stroke Night Harry Potter & Strike Out Stroke Night at Neuroscience Group Field provided fans to experience all things Harry Potter and learn about the symptoms of stroke. Fans were able to play quidditch while having the symptoms of stroke simulated, sample butterbeer, take a picture with a car similar to the one crashed in the ‘Whomping Willow’, meet live owls and learn about their importance in Wisconsin’s ecosystem and take pictures with Harry Potter cutouts. In order to participate in the activities, fans had to be educated on the warning signs of stroke from trained medical professionals from Neuroscience Group, Affinity Health System, Gold Cross Ambulance, ThedaCare and the American Stroke Association. Fans also received a free pair of Harry Potter Glasses and had the chance to have a lightning bolt drawn on their forehead in return for participating in the educational opportunity. The first 1,000 fans through the gate received a Gryffindor themed scarf courtesy of Neuroscience Group. Local stroke survivors, their doctors and their caregivers were honored for their accomplishments and sacrifices.

24 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT SOUTH ATLANTIC LEAGUE CONTRIBUTIONS

TOTAL SOUTH ATLANTIC LEAGUE CONTRIBUTION $3,455,630

CLUB SPOTLIGHT: CHARLESTON RIVERDOGS

Diversity Week On June 17, 2015, Charleston was rocked by the Mother Emanuel shooting, where nine members of the AME church were killed. Nearing the first anniversary of the tragedy, The RiverDogs decided that their annual Larry Doby Heritage Weekend should go deeper, which grew into the idea of Diversity Weekend. Weekend events included: “Advancing the Conversation” Diversity Summit led by College of Charleston research Graeme Cortzer, game invitation to local youth organizations and local church community and unity-based partners, in-game recognition of the Cynthia Hurd Foundation, former Negro League stars and outstanding members of the minority community, post-game heart demonstration and concert and candle lighting ceremony to illustrate the power of one in seeking diversity.

25 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT NEW YORK-PENN LEAGUE CONTRIBUTIONS

TOTAL NEW YORK-PENN LEAGUE CONTRIBUTION $2,355,206

CLUB SPOTLIGHT: BROOKLYN CYCLONES

The Biggest Gay Softball Tournament EVER! The Biggest Gay Softball Tournament EVER! was an event designed to strengthening the relationships with the LGBTQ Community in New York City. The event was planned in early April with the Big Apple Softball League and when called about the event, Elvis Duran and the Z100 Morning Show partnered with the Cyclones as presenting sponsor. After the tragedy in Orlando, this event turned into a fundraiser in memory of the victims.

26 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT NORTHWEST LEAGUE CONTRIBUTIONS

TOTAL NORTHWEST LEAGUE CONTRIBUTION $869,582

CLUB SPOTLIGHT: HILLSBORO HOPS

Fill the Trucks Friday The Hillsboro Hops partnered with Ron Tonkin Dealerships & Oregon Food Bank for Fill the Truck Fridays. At every Friday home game, Ron Tonkin would park a truck from one of their dealerships on the Plaza near the front gates. Fans were encouraged to bring canned foods to fill the truck, resulting in over 1,000 lbs. of food donated to Oregon Food Bank. One of the Fridays happen to land on the same day as the Christmas in July promotion. Along with food, the Hops also collected gift donations to benefit HomePlate Youth Services for their holiday gift giving. All the gifts collected at the Hops stadium, including gifts donated by the Hops front office, were part of a pool that the homeless youth could pick from as gifts for their families and loved ones.

27 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT APPALACHIAN LEAGUE CONTRIBUTIONS

TOTAL APPALACHIAN LEAGUE CONTRIBUTION $145,795

CLUB SPOTLIGHT: ELIZABETHTON TWINS

Bark in the Park Elizabethton Twins’ annual Bark in the Park continues to be a fan favorite event at their stadium. Representatives from a local shelter were on hand to assist with a Doggie Beauty Pageant prior to the game. In addition, local groomers and veterinarians were on hand to give professional pet care advice. The shelter also takes this opportunity to fundraise as they accept donations and have a bake sale.

28 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT PIONEER LEAGUE CONTRIBUTIONS

TOTAL PIONEER LEAGUE CONTRIBUTION $492,082

CLUB SPOTLIGHT: MISSOULA OSPREY

Not So Ugly Xmas Jersey Night On Friday, June 24, the Osprey hosted “Not So Ugly Xmas Jersey Night” benefitting the Ronald McDonald House Charities of West Montana. The night featured Ugly Christmas Sweater Jerseys with pixel-style baseballs and Osprey logos in the theme of a Christmas sweater, and the game- worn jerseys were auctioned off after the game, resulting in a donation of $6,200.

29 2016 MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL CHARITIES ANNUAL REPORT