A mysterious benefactor has pledged $10,000 to the Let’s Play Ball campaign, which aims to provide new sports balls for children at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach. The catch is that readers of the Press-Telegram and the Grunion Gazette must match this donation, potentially doubling the funds to $20,000. This would allow the purchase of approximately 1,000 balls for young athletes involved in the clubs’ various sports programs.
According to Don Rodriguez, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach, the organization is grateful for this generous offer. “Every contribution we get brings us one step closer to doubling this wonderful gift,” he stated, emphasizing the impact such donations have on children’s lives.
Community Engagement and Goals
The Let’s Play Ball campaign is an ongoing initiative designed to gather as many sports balls as possible for youth. It is a collaboration between the Press-Telegram, the Daily Breeze, and their weekly publications, benefiting both the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach and the LA Harbor. The goal is to collect the equivalent of 5,000 balls—2,500 each for Long Beach and LA Harbor clubs. Despite the generous matching offer, significant contributions are still needed to meet this target.
Rodriguez called on the community for support, stating, “We’re calling on our amazing supporters to once again help us reach our goal to help as many kids as possible in all of our programs.” The anonymous donor expressed optimism that community members will rise to the challenge, reinforcing the importance of this initiative for local youth.
“The holidays are a time of giving, and what could be more rewarding than providing kids, who may not get many presents, with a brand new ball to brighten up their holiday!” the donor remarked. This initiative not only aims to spread holiday cheer but also encourages physical activity among children in the new year.
Local Events and Donation Opportunities
The campaign’s success hinges on community involvement. On December 9, John Morris, operator of the Boathouse on the Bay restaurant in Long Beach, will host his annual toy and ball fundraiser luncheon. He encourages attendees to donate unwrapped toys or sports balls valued at $20 each, promising a complimentary buffet lunch in return. “The need is so great,” Morris said. “Kids are our future, and we need to do anything and everything we can to help them.”
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach offer a range of sports, including basketball, soccer, football, baseball, volleyball, dodgeball, and kickball. One young participant, Miguel, age 11, expressed his enthusiasm for the campaign, stating, “Now, we will be able to play more soccer. We need a lot of balls when everyone wants to play.”
For those looking to contribute, donations can be made at various locations, including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach’s main office at 3635 Long Beach Blvd., as well as several Big 5 Sporting Goods stores, which are offering a 25% discount on sports balls purchased for the campaign. The initiative also allows for monetary donations or contributions through the Long Beach clubs’ Amazon wish list.
As the campaign progresses, community members are encouraged to become drop-off locations for donations. Interested parties can contact the organizers via email to facilitate this effort, ensuring that as many children as possible can benefit from the Let’s Play Ball campaign this holiday season and beyond.
