BLAINE, Minn.- Getting involved and lending a helping hand is a big part of what makes communities come together. We are so fortunate to have so many great foundations and non-profits here in Minnesota, so we decided to shine a light on those helping people in need and needing some help in return.
Our first non-profit spotlight is on the Miracle League of Blaine, which is an adaptive baseball program for kids with special needs from ages 3-21. Any child with special needs or disabilities can play baseball.
“The minute you step out onto the miracle league field, your whole outlook changes,” said Brandy Eckman, the President of the Miracle League of Blaine.
This non-profit aims to provide every child the opportunity to make friends, build self-esteem and be treated just like everyone else.
“I got involved about five years ago, I have twin 15-year-old sons now, and I was looking for some sort of sports opportunity for them,” said Stacy Alcox, the Sponsorship Chairmen of the Miracle League of Blaine. “Having them both be autistic, it was a little challenging for them to play in regular leagues and get the support that they needed.”
The league plays on a custom field that accommodates wheelchairs and other assistive devices to help prevent injuries, but the field is needing some help.
“Our field is 11 years old now and has survived 11 winters in Minnesota and so we are working to raise money to repair the field right now to get us through until we can replace the field,” Eckman said.
The organization is currently looking for sponsors who want to get involved with their program as well as families looking to be part of something much bigger than the game.
“It helps build inclusion and it gives our kids with special needs a kind of normalcy in their lives,” said Eckman.
If you would like to register the deadline for this upcoming season is Saturday March 31.
For more information on the Miracle League of Blaine and how you can volunteer, become a sponsor, or just want to show up and show support, click here.