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AUBURN, Mass. – An Auburn Little League team is striking out batters on the field and striking out cancer when they step off the diamond.
The Auburn 10-year-old Little League All-Star team is taking part in the Jimmy Fund Little League Program this summer, as the boys have raised funds to support adult and pediatric cancer care and research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
“This is such a great group of kids and parents who really care about raising money for this great cause,” said Auburn Coach Dave Picard. “We’ve had a great time fundraising so far, the kids are good sellers and we hope to keep on raising more money.”
According to Dana-Farber, the program provides little leaguers of New England with the opportunity to continue to play baseball/softball after the conclusion of their regular season by participating in this local tournament and fundraising effort.
The players are “given the opportunity to develop their athletic skills, build self-confidence, and, most importantly help others by fundraising in their local community.”
Picard said the team has already raised about $4,000, which has far surpassed its initial goal of $1,500. He said they have raised the money in several ways, by asking for donations outside Wal-Mart and Shaw’s, in addition to selling wafer cookies and t-shirts.
But the fundraising is not over yet. Picard said there will be the “Battle of the Dads” softball benefit game on July 28, which he said will raise a lot of money for the Jimmy Fund.
“It’s going to be our big event,” Picard said. “We’re hoping to get as many teams together as possible and have a great time while supporting a great cause.”
The one-day softball tournament will cost $20 per person. There will also be a home run derby, which will be $5 per entry.
Last summer, more than 5,000 children throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire took part and raised more than $250,000 for the Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber.
To support the Jimmy Fund Little League Program in your community, visit the website and click on support a team.
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