Up To Bat

Through work, I have recently become involved with the Achievement Centers for Children. It is a wonderful non-profit organization that helps children (and young adults) with disabilities. Whether it's autism, OCD, down syndrome, or something that isn't even diagnosed- their doors are open for everyone. Children can visit the center with their families for activities, school, therapy, etc. Not only does it help the children, but it helps the families as well. The Center gives parents a place to go where there are other parents like them, going through similar situations. It's really an amazing place.


The Achievement Center has a camp that they offer their kids during the summer, called Camp Cheerful. Kids can go at no cost, and try things like fishing, swimming, and even zip lining! A few weeks ago, my family and I did a 5K to help raise money for the camp. This week, I joined a group of volunteers and Camp Cheerful kids for a fun "field trip" event to Progressive Field, where the Indians play. It was SO HOT!! Oh my god.


We played with the kids doing things like catching, hitting, running bases- they loved it. I wound up working with the youngest group at the camp that day. We had six adults for nine kids, and I swear, it wasn't enough. They were cracking me up! My favorite little boy was Jude (not pictured). He told me that "Judes don't survive in heat like this, and he needed to go home". But they stuck it out. The batting cages were our best stop- it was like a giant sandbox for the kids.


Next week, we are taking all of these kids to an actual game to see the Indians play. I can't wait to see all of my little new friends again!

Sarah and I with some of our group in the dugout

A view of Progressive Field. It was strange to be the only ones there!
The Jumbo Tron welcoming The Achievement Centers and Majestic Steel

Yes, that's me. Hitting a real baseball with a real bat, on the field. My coworkers got a little baseball happy after the kids left.

The Majestic Steel Group