Volunteers with the Knights of Columbus were honoured Tuesday night at Fergie Jenkins Field during a Chatham-Kent Barnstormers game, recognizing their ongoing support for local charities and ballpark operations.
The group, which supports the Canadian Baseball League team, was acknowledged for its work running concession stands, assisting with cleanup, and organizing 50/50 draws that help raise funds for community causes. The recognition took place in front of about 600 fans and volunteers in attendance.
During the game, the 50/50 draw raised more than $500, with net proceeds going toward the Knights of Columbus Coats for Kids® program. The initiative provides winter coats to children, veterans and others in need, and distributed more than 20,000 coats last year in Ontario.
“Sports are a great way to bring people together in community and charity,” said David Gelinas, State Deputy of the Knights of Columbus in Ontario, who attended the game and threw the first pitch. “We’re extremely grateful for the work of so many volunteers who come out, game after game, to serve people at the ballpark and help those in need in the community. We’re also thankful to the Chatham-Kent Barnstormers for welcoming us as members of their ball team.”
Volunteers also helped lead the national anthem and participated in ceremonial elements of the evening, which saw the Barnstormers defeat the Welland Jackfish 10-6.
Emile Vercouteren, Volunteer Coordinator and Community Director for Knights of Columbus Council 7744 in Blenheim, said the partnership has helped strengthen both community engagement and charitable giving.
“Wherever there’s a need, there’s a Knight,” he said. “And across Ontario, people are looking for ways to socialize with others in the community and find ways to make ends meet during these tough times in our economy. A good local ball game offers people the chance to enjoy themselves and give back to their neighbours. We’re delighted to see what has been achieved in the past three years of this partnership.”
The Knights of Columbus Coats for Kids® program began in Ontario in 2016 and has since expanded significantly, distributing millions of coats across Canada and the United States.
The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic fraternal organization founded in 1882 and operates councils across Ontario and internationally.
