Mets Community Insider – April Edition
Black Legacy Game on Jackie Robinson Day
In honor of Jackie Robinson Day, the Amazin’ Mets Foundation was proud to recognize their Jackie Robinson Scholar, Olusola Babalola. Olusola, a fourth-year Harvard University student, is a Human Developmental & Regenerative Biology Major, on a Pre-Med track. She recently finished her junior year Spring Semester with a 3.91 GPA. Olusola was invited to throw out the Honorary First Pitch before the game against the Pirates.
Jackie Robinson Day also marked the second annual “Black Legacy Game” at Citi Field. The game honored the many contributions Black Americans have made to the game and the country. In-game features highlighted former Black New York Mets players and paid tribute to significant Black historical figures, including Jackie Robinson and his wife, Rachel, who was at Citi Field and honored in a pregame ceremony.
Before the game, the Mets hosted students from Queensboro Community College, Department of Youth & Community Development, and the Canaan Baptist Choir for a panel discussion featuring renowned rappers & recording artists DJ Webstar and MIMS. Students had the chance to listen to DJ Webstar and MIMS discuss the impact of Jackie Robinson’s legacy on the world of rap. There was also a surprise appearance by Jackie’s son, David.
The Amazin’ Mets Foundation was proud to donate 50 percent of net raffle proceeds of that night’s 50/50 raffle to benefit the Jackie Robinson Foundation.
Parker’s Wish
During the New York Mets first homestand of the season, the Mets Community Engagement team invited 10-year-old Parker to Citi Field for an experience of a lifetime. Baseball serves as a strong distraction for Parker as he battles health challenges.
The Mets were proud to invite Parker and his father to Citi Field to tour the ballpark, visit the dugout, and meet players like First Baseman Pete Alonso, Closing Pitcher Edwin Diaz, and Second Baseman Jeff McNeil.
Senior Smiles Art Event @ Carter Burden Network
The Amazin’ Mets Foundation visited Carter Burden Network’s Roosevelt Older Adult Center as part of their Senior Smiles program.
Mr. Met and Front Office Staff joined the seniors of Carter Burden Network in a baseball-themed art class, which taught them how to paint and decorate pots for gardening plants and herbs.
Studies show activities like gardening and art have significant positive effects on the mental and physical well-being of senior citizens. Activities like these can provide a sense of purpose, accomplishment, and self-expression, which are especially important for seniors facing life transitions or health challenges.
Join the Amazin’ Mets Foundation’s Fun At Bat Program
The Amazin’ Mets Foundation, in partnership with USA Baseball, has expanded the Fun At Bat program in 2024. The Foundation is partnering with 150 schools across New York City and the Tri-State area, which would total over 150,000 youth reached since launching the program in September 2022.
The Amazin’ Mets Foundation supported the Fun At Bat program with a $25,000 grant to USA Baseball to fund the 150 participating schools.
This free program is available to all schools throughout the New York City and Tri-State area for grades K-5. Participating schools receive quality equipment, USA Baseball Championship Principle books, and other resources. Physical education teachers will also have access to free online courses, which help teach the program’s fundamentals.
All qualifying K-5 school administrators and physical education teachers can learn more and apply for Fun At Bat by visiting Mets.com/FunAtBat.
