Cubs Charities launches Diamond Project
New Diamond Project initiative aims to expand opportunities for children to play baseball
Cubs Charities, in a partnership with Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) Chicago, today announced the launch of the Cubs Charities Diamond Project. The Diamond Project marks the third signature program Cubs Charities has launched. In 2013, Cubs Charities introduced the Cubs Scholars program and the Cubs On The Move Fitness Trolley.
The Diamond Project aims to improve the quality and safety of local baseball fields in the Chicago area. The project will expand opportunities for children to play baseball, create or preserve green space and foster a love of the game, particularly in the inner city where baseball has experienced a significant decline.
"The Diamond Project aligns with our mission to be good neighbors and Cubs Charities' goal of providing health and physical education activities for our youth," said Cubs Charities Chair Laura Ricketts. "We're thrilled to invest in our communities and offer the opportunity for children to continue to develop their love and passion for the game of baseball."
Cubs Charities, with technical assistance from LISC Chicago, will identify communities in need of new or improved baseball fields and provide grants to facilities that will be used to promote health and wellness through baseball. In addition to monetary support, the Wrigley Field Grounds Crew will advise Cubs Charities Diamond Project grantees during projects and maintenance.
"Public recreational spaces are essential to the health of every neighborhood," said Susana Vasquez, LISC Chicago's executive director. "We're honored to partner with Cubs Charities to support new or renovated fields that will serve as tremendous community assets, especially for young people."
For nonprofit, neighborhood-based organizations, and schools in the Chicago area, an informational session will be held at Wrigley Field Wednesday, April 30, at 10:00 a.m. in the Budweiser Bleacher Suite. Please email [email protected] if you wish to attend. For additional information on the Cubs Charities Diamond Project and how to apply, please visit www.cubs.com/diamondproject.
About Cubs Charities: Cubs Charities harnesses the passion of Cubs fans to improve the lives of children and families across the city and beyond. Cubs Charities' goal is to provide increased access to sports opportunities and target improvements in health, fitness and education for those at risk. Through grants to quality non-profit programs, development of parks and baseball fields, and other community initiatives, the Cubs and Cubs Charities help fulfill a commitment to be the best in the game, on and off the field.
About LISC: Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) Chicago connects neighborhoods to the resources they need to become stronger and healthier. Since its founding in 1980, LISC Chicago has organized $232 million to invest in comprehensive development programs throughout the city. This investment has built the capacity of dozens of community-based organizations, helped create 30,000 units of affordable housing and 5.5 million square feet of neighborhood commercial space, and led to a variety of social and economic development programs serving people and communities across Chicago.