The Gilchrist Foundation Helps Make Miracles
There’s no better way to cap off the end of summer than with America’s pastime. On September 6 – 8, 2019, the Miracle League of Sioux City hosted more than 100 athletes from around the world for the second-annual Miracle League All-Star Celebration, which was injected with some Iowa pride thanks to the Gilchrist Foundation.
Let’s Everyone Play Ball
The mission of the Miracle League is to provide opportunities for children with disabilities to play Miracle League baseball, regardless of their abilities. The All-Star event brought 100 Miracle League players and their families to Sioux City to compete in a four-game baseball tournament. The Miracle League field, which features a barrier-free diamond, was made even more festive for the big day with a new outfield feature that symbolizes Iowa to an ‘ear.’
Last May, the Gilchrist Foundation donated $5,000 to the Miracle League of Sioux City for the additions of the powder-coated cornstalks that now line the outside of the baseball field. It was a great way to showcase Iowa at the complex, which received visitors from 23 states and Mexico. The All-Star event also featured other fun activities including a kickball game and dance on the diamond. The event was capped by a gala for players and families on Saturday night.
About The Complex
Sioux City’s Miracle League complex is the largest of its kind worldwide. Located in the Riverside Park area, the park includes a rubber-surfaced baseball field, playground, splash pad, mini-golf course, music park, walking path and a concession/restroom facility. The first phase of the complex was completed on September 12, 2015 and the final phase was completed on October 16, 2016.
About The Miracle League of Sioux City
The Miracle League of Sioux City is a 501c3 that provides recreational opportunities for children and adults with disabilities. It is governed by a Board of Directors and is a member of the National Miracle League organization, which officially was started in 1999 with a league of 35 players. In the Miracle League,
· each player bats once per inning,
· all players are safe on the bases,
· every player scores a run before the inning is over,
· community children and volunteers serve as “buddies” to assist players,
· and each player wins every game.
Presently there are more than 300 Miracle League Organizations across the country including Puerto Rico, Canada and now Australia. The Miracle League of Sioux City’s facilities are open to all members of our community, but its Miracle friends are our priority.
The Gilchrist Foundation’s mission is to support local organizations that support wildlife and conservation, arts and public broadcasting and disaster relief. It makes grants to pre-selected charities which have been invited to apply based on the perceived match of both organizations’ missions. While the deadline for project and endowment grants and capital campaigns has passed, organizations can apply for a micro-grant any time of the year. Grant requests may be submitted online and will be either accepted or denied within 30 days. This grant allows non-profit groups to receive funding for smaller projects on a one-time basis. Criteria for award will include the opportunity to bring theater, music, art, green spaces, parks, wildlife and conservation efforts into the lives of Siouxland residents.