Valpo Phoenixes Run in Bases for Bucks Fundraiser

In an effort not only to raise awareness, but also funding for breast cancer, as well as providing essential donations to Housing Opportunities, the Valpo Phoenixes came together at Ben Franklin Middle School to run a thousand bases.

The girls visited Housing Opportunities in December to wrap presents for 91 children as part of the homeless program. While they were there, Kathleen McClure, one of the staff members informed them of the dire need of paper products and general toiletries, which are not supplied through food stamps. The girls came up with the idea to pull together a large amount of these paper goods and donate it to those who so desperately need them.

Kathleen had this to say, “Thank you, on behalf of all our clients for what you did. It is amazing. You guys have big, big hearts.”

As if that weren’t enough, they hosted Flora Ryan, a Portage police officer who overcame cancer this last year. They pledged to run a thousand bases to raise money to be able to pay for softball and give charitably to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Allowing Flora to run the thousandth stretch, the kids reached out and high-fived her on her way down to home base, before gathering together and learning about the dangers and prevention of breast cancer.

The girls clearly cared about something beyond themselves, though not without the healthy balance of personal dreams. They also claimed to be heading for the World Series, with forty homeruns per player, for which Flora commended them.

Lisa Thomas, the Phoenix coach commented that, “It’s very important to me and the rest of the coaches that you guys learn more than just playing softball through this team”, and it was clear she meant this, as they plan on hosting charitable events like this consistently in the future.

In the end, the girls raised a total of $4860 for the opportunity to play the sport they love so much and give back to those in need.

Click here to see more photos of this amazing cause!