Spring Training has begun and The Rays are here.
By Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director
If someone were to ask me what my favorite memory is from working at United Way of Charlotte County, there would for sure be some highlights. One such memory comes to mind every time I think of Charlotte Sports Park. In 2017, UWCC filmed a campaign video at the Sports Park. Nonprofit agencies, volunteers, community partners, our UWCC Board and even the Rays mascot Raymond joined in the filming.
It was a huge undertaking as we had over 70 people file into the entrance of the park. I still get goosebumps when I see the opening image and even all the way through the video (don’t worry we will show how to view it). There was a lot of power in seeing all the people support our work. Additionally, it was August 31, 2017 and it was VERY HOT.
I can count many special memories at the Sports Park and am very grateful to have such a wonderful venue in our area. While I hadn’t lived in Charlotte County for the original opening of the Charlotte Sports Park back in 1987, it is exciting to be here for the re-opening of the Sports Park after Hurricane Ian destroyed it.
My fellow Tampa Bay Rays fans can relate to missing them not being here in Charlotte County last year. I did adventure up to Tropicana Field last season to watch a game but it’s not the same as having it in your backyard. Hearing the fans excitement from El Jobean Rd, seeing the blue spring training flags around town and especially the Rays team.
United Way of Charlotte County (UWCC) has a long-standing relationship with The Tampa Bay Rays. Over the years, they have sponsored our annual campaign, and even asked UWCC Board Members to throw the first pitch. The annual sponsorship has supported our mission and provided invaluable programs to residents in Charlotte County.
After Ian, The Rays Baseball Foundation, the official charity of the Tampa Bay Rays, donated two truckloads of household items, cleaning supplies and toiletries which were distributed to families through Charlotte County Public Schools and our nonprofit partners. In addition, the Rays Baseball Foundation presented UWCC with a donation of $250,000 to be used entirely for United at Work assistance. You may recall from previous columns; the United at Work fund is to assist individuals who are employed in Charlotte County and were impacted by Hurricane Ian.
I can’t wait to go see the newly remodeled Sports Park. Past UWCC Board Member and Women United member, Caryn Huff, Wharton-Smith, Inc. Area Manager, and her team were awarded the contract on January 24, 2023 to perform the hurricane-insured repairs for Charlotte Sports Park. Through an extraordinary display of teamwork, this fast-track project was completed in less than one year and under budget. Huff said, “We are thrilled to be part of bringing the Charlotte Sports Park back to life. Now let’s play some baseball!”
Spring is always a great time of year. The air is cool and fresh, flowers are blooming and it signifies new beginnings. Spring Training is so exciting and the start of baseball season is fun! Support local and enjoy some family time by watching some baseball.
Welcome back Rays! We’re excited you have returned to Charlotte County and we wish you the best this season. Thank you for your meaningful partnership and the wonderful support you provide to many non-profits in our community.
For links to view the UWCC video at The Sports Park, information about how to get help with United at Work and even a link to purchase Spring Training tickets, visit unitedwayccfl.org/Rays.
For more information about United Way of Charlotte County’s mission: Mobilizing the power of our community to break the cycle of poverty, please contact Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director. She can be reached at director@unitedwayccfl.org