Fontana, Calif. – The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) will unveil its 51st Dodgers Dreamfield on Saturday, June 22nd from 10:00 a.m-12:00 p.m. at Jack Bulik Park (16581 Filbert Ave., Fontana, CA 92335).
The event will feature Dodger pitcher Joe Kelly and Dodger third base coach Dino Ebel, both Inland Empire residents, who will support their community and unveil the newest Dreamfield.
“Dodgers Dreamfield #51 is home to our second universally accessible field that will provide children of all abilities a safe place to play baseball and softball,” said Tiffany Rubin, Youth Program Director for LADF. “The positive impact sports can have on a child’s life is why we find it important to continue to improve communities. LADF is focused on utilizing a data-driven approach to target Los Angeles communities with unique needs for all of our Dodgers Dreamfields projects.”
In line with its new strategic plan, LADF is placing a large emphasis on safe places to play for youth of all abilities. Across the U.S., about 18% of children have a disability or chronic condition. Families are often faced with barriers to sports participation, like concerns about safety and finding leagues that provide appropriate accommodations. LADF believes that every child deserves the opportunity to reap the health, social and emotional benefits of sports participation, regardless of ability.
“Dodgers Dreamfield #51 is a game changer for Fontana,” shares Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren. “We are incredibly grateful for this partnership and honored to now be home to a universally accessible field that ensures everyone has the opportunity to be part of the game. With over 3,000 youth in the surrounding community living with special needs, this Dreamfield is not only a remarkable amenity for the City of Fontana, but for the entire region.”
Following a ceremonial ribbon cutting and program emceed by Dodger broadcaster Alanna Rizzo, the field will host its inaugural game with the Challengers Little League with Kelly and Ebel each coaching and encouraging their own team. The Little League Challengers Program is a Little League adaptive baseball program for individuals with physical and intellectual challenges.
“All kids need a place they can call their own and where they can have fun simply being kids, and sports have a magical way of doing just that” said Cal Ripken, Jr., Vice Chairman of the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation. “We are honored to be a part of this project and support the thoughtful efforts of the Dodgers Foundation to provide a barrier-free park for children of all abilities to have a safe place to play, learn and grow.”
Generous Dodgers Dreamfield #51 sponsors include the City of Fontana, Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Security Benefit, LA84 Foundation, Easterseals Southern California, and Baker’s Drive-Thru.
In 2018, LADF announced a renewed commitment to the Dodgers Dreamfield program and established plans to build an additional 25 fields by 2033 as part of a new 75 x 75 campaign, which will celebrate 75 Dreamfields by the 75th anniversary of the Dodgers in Los Angeles.
About the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation:
Founded in 1995, the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) is the official team charity of the Los Angeles Dodgers. An award-winning leader in sports-based youth development, LADF harnesses the power of the Dodger brand, and a passionate fan base, to significantly impact underserved youth in some of the most challenged neighborhoods of Los Angeles. With a focus on Sports + Recreation, Education + Literacy, and Health + Wellness, LADF administers direct programs serving youth and communities at large and provides grants to local nonprofit organizations. With a bigger than baseball mentality, LADF is focused on finding innovative ways to create opportunities for children through programs that engage with kids in sports, helps kids stay active and promote academic success. With the support of partners, stakeholders and fans, LADF produces incredible results on fields, in classrooms and at recreation centers, creating Major League Communities.
