WILMINGTON — A move is afoot to make sure that people who otherwise would not get to play baseball are suited up and on the diamond this fall.
The non-profit ACCESS of Wilmington is in the middle of a major fundraiser to benefit the Miracle League of Wilmington — an adaptive baseball league for adults and children with disabilities.
ACCESS of Wilmington Program Coordinator Kayla Jakubczak said the goal is to raise $10,000 by the end of May. The month-long effort is being dubbed “May is For Miracles.”
By Saturday, more than $5,500 had been raised.
“Your gift will be used to buy uniforms, equipment and to help people who have never played baseball before get out on the field,” Jakubczak said. “We’re halfway there.”
The baseball program is entering its fifth year, she said (read our past stories here). It has about 200 participants signed up now, and has worked with a few hundred more during its four-year existence.
Miracle League games are played at Olson Park, on a specialized field in Brax Stadium. The flat, rubberized field accommodates wheelchairs and walkers, allowing access to anyone who wants to play.
There is an eight-week fall season, the games of which take place Saturday mornings. A summer program includes nighttime pick-up games.
“We have players from (ages) 4 to 75,” Jakubczak said. “It’s open to all ages and abilities.”
Jakubczak said the group is fundraising online. Ultimately, the website hopes the group will raise $50,000.
“You can give from $25 to whatever your heart feels like,” Jakubczak said. “Everything helps.”
Information about the Miracle League of Wilmington can be found on ACCESS of Wilmington’s website.
