Take Me Out To The Ball Game: Jawonio Style

Despite the threats of wind and rain Monday night, Jawonio became the third charitable organization to participate in the 2011 Charity Challenge as the Rockland Boulders faced off against the Pittsfield Colonials. And although the Boulders were ultimately defeated, the devoted fans did not give up their support.

“The Charity Challenge gives Active [International] and the Rockland Boulders an opportunity to benefit a number of non-profits in this community,” said Joe Allen, Senior Vice President of Employee Communications and Community Affairs at Active International. “It’s important that the business community, the non-profits, and individuals work together.”

Jawonio’s number of pre-sale tickets was the highest of the Charity Challenges so far.  The crowd was enthusiastic, showing their dedication and support to Jawonio, the Boulders, and Active International. 

Arthur Huggins, who is an employee of Jawonio, was given the honor of throwing the first pitch of the game. He even got to keep the baseball afterwards. 

Caroline Trugman, a recent graduate of Clarkstown High School North, sang the National Anthem, a beautiful beginning to an incredible night.

In each Charity Challenge game, Active International matches funds raised from percentages of ticket sales and concession sales. For Jawonio, the proceeds from Monday night’s game will go towards the organization’s adult services program. This includes the Nyack Studio Arts program that was devastated in the June flood.

“The Nyack Studio Arts program is a day program… for some of the people with mental disabilities to learn to live in the community,” explained Sheri Muth, Division director of Employment and Day Services at Jawonio. “What we did was we took the arts and integrated it into the community so they could learn works behaviors and works skills.”

“We're very excited about getting those guys back into a space and having their equipment there so they can do their thing,” added Jill Warner, CEO of Jawonio. “For us to have the opportunity to raise money through having fun and watching a ball game… that’s what it’s all about.”