The 2016 American League champion Cleveland Indians announced the creation of The Larry Doby Youth Fund and donation of $1 million to provide assistance to the underserved youth of the City of Cleveland.
“As many are aware, Hall of Fame Cleveland Indian Larry Doby was the first African-American to play in the American League. He endured many unfair hardships and challenges, and handled everything with the professionalism and grace that defined him. It is in Mr. Doby’s spirit we have created The Larry Doby Youth Fund,” said Indians manager Terry Francona.
“We have enjoyed a special season here in Cleveland because of the incredible group of individuals in our clubhouse. They are committed to the city in which they live and work and have generously donated to The Larry Doby Youth Fund,” said Francona. “We are very fortunate to be a part of Major League Baseball and we accept the social responsibility that comes with that—to use our resources to directly make an impact on the underserved youth of our community, to make our community better.”
Every player on the Cleveland Indians roster, our coaching staff, all members of our support staff, along with extreme caring and commitment of Indians Owner Paul Dolan and Minority Owner John Sherman have generously donated to this important initiative.
The Larry Doby Youth Fund will be administered by the Cleveland Foundation, and work with youth-focused community organizations to provide educational assistance and resources to help curb youth violence that is all too prevalent. The Cleveland Foundation will announce the grant application process for non-profit organizations in January 2017.
“Larry Doby is an icon in our community, and the Cleveland Indians are true champions for continuing his civic legacy at all levels of the organization,” said Ronn Richard, President and CEO, Cleveland Foundation. “By giving back to Cleveland and serving their youngest fans, the Cleveland Indians and their uniformed personnel in this instance demonstrate once again why we are proud to root for the home team.”
Fans wishing to rally together with the Indians clubhouse to support the kids in our community can make a donation by November 2 to the The Larry Doby Youth Fund by visiting: Clevelandfoundation.org/
Fans can also text CLEVE to 27722 to donate $5 to The Larry Doby Youth Fund of the Cleveland Foundation by November 2, 2016. When prompted, reply to complete your donation.*
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