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Rays designate March 28 game "Community Day" to recognize community partners

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla.-The Tampa Bay Rays have designated the team's game at Charlotte Sports Park on Saturday, March 28 at 1:05 p.m. against the Boston Red Sox as the team's annual Spring Training "Community Day." Each year, the Rays use this event to recognize and support the team's community partners in Charlotte County and the important work they do in the community.

At Saturday's game, the Rays will recognize the Charlotte County Family YMCA and Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity. Employees and volunteers from each organization will attend as special guests. During the pregame on-field presentation, each group will receive a $5,000 donation from the Rays Baseball Foundation and deliver a ceremonial first pitch. In addition, each organization will be available in the stadium concourse during the game to educate fans about their meaningful work in the Charlotte County community.

"We are thrilled to be able to use Rays spring training to recognize and support our many community partners in Charlotte County, including the Family YMCA and Habitat for Humanity," said Rays Senior Vice President of Strategy and Development Melanie Lenz. "We encourage our fans to take the time to learn more about these wonderful organizations and the amazing work they do in this community."

"Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity is honored to be recognized by the Tampa Bay Rays as a community partner," said Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity Senior Director of Outreach Gabrielle Reineck. "We are thankful for the positive economic impact the Rays provide to Charlotte County, plus the financial support we receive to continue making a difference in the lives of local low income residents."

Charlotte County Family YMCA

The Y is the nation's leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Last year, the Charlotte County and North Port Family YMCA provided more than $200,000 in children's scholarships for youth and families to take advantage of the services the Y offers. With 9,000 members and growing, the Charlotte County and North Port Family YMCA is the area's largest childcare provider. Learn more about the YMCA at www.CharlotteCountyYMCA.com.

Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity

Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity has been serving the Charlotte County community since 1987. During this time the organization has helped over 315 families achieve the "American Dream" of homeownership. Those interested in learning more about the program or finding out how to partner with Habitat to make a difference in Charlotte County may visit www.charlottecountyhfh.org or contact Gabrielle Reineck at (941) 639-3162 or [email protected].

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