Local Youth Baseball Team Raises Funds for Thanksgiving Meals
ARDMORE, Okla. – In a heartwarming demonstration of community spirit, the Red River Reapers, a youth baseball team, dedicated their Saturday to support local families in need during the Thanksgiving season. The initiative underscores the vital role youth organizations can play in fostering a spirit of philanthropy among young people.
The team participated in Albertsons’ Holiday Bucks campaign, a nationwide effort aimed at raising funds to provide meals for families during the holiday season. Waylon Hefley, a member of the Red River Reapers, expressed the impact of their fundraising efforts: “We were being kind and we would ask them if they wanted to help us raise money for families in need.” The goal was an ambitious 0 per day, which would directly contribute to feeding families.
Brittney Santos, a parent involved with the team, explained how the collaboration came to fruition. “One of the managers at Albertsons had reached out to our president of our association, and so they offered for us to come help them.” The response from the Reapers was overwhelmingly positive; demonstrating both their commitment to community service and their fundraising prowess, the team raised nearly ,300, more than double the initial daily goal.
The funds raised translated into tangible outcomes. Each meal provided by Albertsons costs approximately , which means that thanks to the Reapers, an additional 19 families will have meals on their tables this Thanksgiving. As proud as the team was of their contributions, the players were equally focused on the underlying lesson. Ledger Smith, a player on the team, articulated the experience’s broader significance, stating, “Being kind on and off the field” is crucial.
The initiative is a direct reflection of the support the Reapers have received from various communities throughout their competitive season. Santos noted that the team comprises players from diverse backgrounds, with each community contributing in ways that foster a sense of belonging and encouragement. “All of those communities have supported our boys in some way, either through fundraisers or shoutouts for the team,” she added.
For the young athletes, the experience reinforced their sense of camaraderie and gratitude. As team member Mister Barton highlighted, “We’ve been playing for a year and we’re just like a family.” The sentiments expressed by the players reflect a growing awareness of social responsibility and the importance of community engagement at a young age. As Maverick Santos succinctly put it, the lessons learned extend beyond sports: “Help others in our community, respect each other,” he said.
Ultimately, the Red River Reapers exemplify how youth sports can serve as a platform not only for athletic development but also for nurturing kindness and generosity within the community. Their efforts this Thanksgiving season provide a meaningful reminder of the impact that teamwork can have, both on and off the field.
