Oakland A's Catcher Stephen Vogt Announces All-Star Benefit for School of Imagination on National Autism Day April 2, 2016

On Mon., Jan. 25, Oakland A’s Catcher Stephen Vogt announced his partnership with the School of Imagination (SOI) and Oakland A’s for an inaugural All-Star Benefit featuring a Texas Hold’em Poker Challenge where guests will have the opportunity to play alongside Vogt and other Bay Area sports personalities.

The fundraiser, which is being held on National Autism Awareness Day on Saturday, April 2 at the Palm Pavilion in Pleasanton, will feature FOX/KTVU Sports Director Mark Ibanez as master of ceremonies. Attendees will enjoy entertainment, hors d’oeuvres, a no-host bar, blackjack casino, the opportunity to buy into the Texas Hold’em Poker Challenge, live auction, amazing prizes and more.

“My wife and I truly believe in School of Imagination,” said Vogt. “Charlene and Mitch are changing lives in this community and state. Alyssa and I consider ourselves lucky to be involved with School of Imagination. And today, I’m thrilled that we can finally announce this event, which is sure to be a great time. I’m gathering my friends and getting ready for a little friendly competition at the poker table.”

Following Vogt’s announcement, Assemblywoman Catharine Baker addressed the media, local dignitaries and SOI families.

“I’m honored to be part of this special day,” said Assemblywoman Baker. “I commend Stephen Vogt’s sustained involvement with School of Imagination. As a parent, I personally know families that have benefitted from the individualized care this school provides. We are blessed to have this unique school in this community, and I am committed to supporting their mission. Please join me in giving your support to School of Imagination and their upcoming All-Star Benefit.”

In addition to SOI families and board members, many community leaders attended the special announcement including Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O’Malley, Former Dublin Mayor Janet Lockhart, Former Pleasanton Mayor Jennifer Hosterman, Former Livermore Mayor Marshall Kamena, Chevron Representative Marian Catedral, Dublin City Council Member Doreen Wehrenberg, a representative from Congressman Eric Swalwell’s office, and a representative from Alameda County Supervisor Scott Haggerty’s office.

Vogt, who recently received the 2015 Roberto Clemente Award Nomination for his support of SOI, spent the afternoon at the Dublin school. He and A’s Mascot Stomper played games with the children at SOI’s Winter Carnival, which also took place at the school on Monday afternoon. Several preschoolers tried their luck at the beanbag toss against the major league baseball player. Vogt has visited SOI many times in the last couple years. The students have enjoyed playing baseball with him, as well as listening to him read stories. Vogt has become one of their biggest supporters and organized an online auction for SOI last year through the Vogt Family Fund.

Tickets for the All-Star Benefit for the School of Imagination are now available at www.soiallstar.org. Event Tickets are $100 (includes entrance, entertainment, appetizers, one drink coupon and a blackjack chip voucher), Player Tickets are $200 (includes entrance, entertainment, appetizers, two drink coupons, one entry in Texas Hold’em Poker Challenge and a blackjack chip voucher), and High Roller Packages are available for $500 (includes entrance for two, entertainment, appetizers, five drink coupons, two entries in Texas Hold’em Poker Challenge, two blackjack chip vouchers, and a being listed as a High Roller Sponsor in program).

Sponsorship opportunities are available with a variety of benefits. For sponsorship levels and information, email info@soi4kids.org.

SOI continues to grow, and is actively recruiting educators and therapists. Interested candidates should emailinfo@soi4kids.org.

About School of Imagination: School of Imagination (SOI) is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2001 that provides groundbreaking support and services for more than 300 children, many with special needs and disabilities, such as autism. SOI has served thousands of families throughout Northern California with road maps to success—from evaluation to diagnosis and implementation. In addition to cutting-edge early intervention services, the program provides a full inclusion preschool. This model empowers special needs children to learn alongside their typical peers, giving them the greatest chance to become mainstreamed. At School of Imagination, no child is turned away for a lack of money. For more information about School of Imagination, visit www.schoolofimagination.org.