UPDATE: The Let’s Play Ball Drive is on the brink of success as it approaches its goal of 2,500 new sports balls for the Boys & Girls Clubs kids, with just 10 days left until the deadline of December 28. The community’s support is crucial as every contribution counts toward unlocking a matching $10,000 donation from an anonymous benefactor.
Don Rodriguez, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach, emphasized the urgency: “We’re very close to reaching our goal and unlocking the magic gift from our angel donor. We’re thankful for everything our community has given, but we still have a little way to go.” The anonymous donor’s challenge requires the community to match their contribution, creating an opportunity for a total of $20,000 to benefit local youth.
As of now, 2,047 balls have been collected in Long Beach, and more than 1,500 balls have been donated in the surrounding areas. This annual campaign, sponsored by the Press-Telegram and Daily Breeze, aims to provide at least 5,000 sports balls collectively to both the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach and the LA Harbor.
Tom Bray, senior editor for Southern California News Group, expressed confidence in the community’s support: “They just need a little more time. We know our readers will come through.” The original deadline has been extended to ensure every possible contribution can be made.
Sports balls are essential for promoting team building and keeping kids engaged in healthy activities. Rodriguez urged potential donors to visit Big 5 Sporting Goods, which is offering a 25% discount on regularly priced sports balls purchased for donation (excluding golf and tennis balls).
Donations can be made in two ways: drop off new sports balls at designated locations or contribute funds online. Specific drop-off sites include the Boys & Girls Clubs main office at 3635 Long Beach Blvd. and various Big 5 locations. Online donations can be made via the Long Beach clubs’ Amazon wish list at bgclublb.org/Joy.
Rodriguez highlighted the positive impact of these donations: “Every donation helps our kids and makes a real difference in their day. As we head into the holidays, we wish everyone a warm and happy season.”
This holiday season, the Let’s Play Ball Drive stands as a beacon of hope for many children in the community. With the deadline fast approaching, every effort counts. Community members are encouraged to participate and help ensure that no child is left without a sports ball this season.
For further inquiries or to become a drop-off location, contact Kari Cho, Vice President of Marketing and Development at [email protected].
