With new partnership, Reds Country Cares wraps successful third season

By Brendan Hader | October 28, 2024

In 2024, the Reds were proud to continue their Reds Country Cares program, which included a new partnership with United Way of Greater Cincinnati.

Reds Country Cares launched in 2022 to recognize local organizations making positive changes in the community. Now finishing up its third year, the initiative selects one societal issue per month of the regular season that needs attention in our region, and recognizes the work being done by organizations serving in that area. This year, United Way of Greater Cincinnati was excited to join the cause.

“The Reds are committed to using our platform to elevate awareness and support for organizations who are serving the needs of our community,” said Reds chief communications and community officer Karen Forgus after the partnership announcement in April. “We are thrilled to add the support of United Way of Greater Cincinnati to this cornerstone program.”

Founded in 1915, the United Way of Greater Cincinnati is a nonprofit organization that has been dedicated to building long-term solutions and aligning systems to help everyone in the community thrive. Established in 1869, the Cincinnati Reds are baseball’s oldest professional franchise. In addition to both organizations holding deep roots within the city, their shared commitment to supporting local organizations, amplifying the important work they do, and inspiring positive change in the community were ingredients for a perfect partnership.

“The Reds and baseball culture are woven into the fabric of this city,” UWGC president & CEO Moira Weir said. “The team’s impact extends beyond the ballpark into communities that United Way has served for more than a century. United Way’s mission is to empower everyone in our region to achieve economic well-being so our entire community can thrive. Together with dedicated partners like the Reds, we know we can encourage meaningful change in Greater Cincinnati.”

During the 2024 season, the United Way awarded $1,000 grants to 20 organizations highlighted by Reds Country Cares. To spotlight each monthly initiative, the Reds hosted these groups for on-field pregame ceremonies at Great American Ball Park, while also featuring them in Reds on Radio public service announcements, signage around the ballpark and other promotional support. Members of the United Way were also active in volunteering for related events throughout the season, including the annual Reds Community Makeover.

“United Way’s impact extends beyond financial contributions. It’s reflected in the partnerships forged with corporate and community organizations, through the dedication of volunteers, and in the advocacy that leads to substantive policy change,” Weir said. “We all have a stake in the well-being of our community. Together, we can build on our successes, driving positive change and supporting a brighter future for everyone in Reds Country. Leveraging our respective reach and resources strengthens our collective impact and helps ensure everyone feels valued and supported.”

In April, the monthly spotlight was on Reds Baseball Welcomes All (Disabilities Awareness & DE&I). One of the groups the Reds partnered with was All Abilities Sports NKY, an organization that aims to provide sports opportunities to children with various special needs in the tristate area. Their goal is to give every child, no matter his or her diagnosis, the chance to play every sport.

“Working with the Reds Country Cares program this season was an incredible opportunity for our nonprofit,” All Abilities Sports NKY founder/owner Samantha Payne said. “Thanks to the Reds partnership, more opportunities and awareness were brought to All Abilities Sports NKY, making it possible for us to continue to change lives through sports for so many kids that absolutely deserve these opportunities.”

On April 23, the Reds welcomed a large group from All Abilities Sports NKY to the ballpark. A couple of their young athletes had the chance to participate in a ceremonial first pitch before watching the Reds play the Phillies.

“For so many of our families, they rarely, if ever, come to Reds games, because it's either too hard for them to make it happen or because they fear how their child will respond and how others will react to the noises or gestures they may make,” Payne said. “However, because many of us were seated together and we were recognized before the game, it felt like the day was about bringing awareness to our families. It didn't matter that day; our kids were special! It was one night where there was no worry about all things medical and how tough times can be. We were together and best of all, we got to enjoy the game! Our families were so thankful for the opportunity. We truly couldn’t be more grateful.”

2024 Reds Country Cares -- Monthly Causes:

To learn more about Reds Country Cares and see a full list of organizations, please visit reds.com/unity.

United Way of Greater Cincinnati serves nine counties and is committed to building a future where everyone in our community can thrive. For more information, visit uwgc.org.

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