Seven days earlier, Kyle Schwarber had another historic moment, becoming just the 11th player ever to have at least 40 leadoff home runs in their career. While Kyle’s “Schwarbombs” are what legends are made of, it is his impact as the founder of Schwarber’s Neighborhood Heroes that truly makes this All-Star revered by his teammates and fans alike.
The mission of Schwarber’s Neighborhood Heroes is to express gratitude for the unique sacrifices of first responders, military personnel and their families. Founded in 2017 by Kyle and his wife Paige, the program creates positive experiences and funds wellness, education and crisis needs for these heroes and their families.
Since its inception, the foundation has awarded more than $1.5 million in grants to nonprofits who support Kyle’s cause, such as the Philadelphia Police and Fire Department Foundations, Families Behind the Badge Children’s Foundation, TAPS, Team Foster, USO and many more.
Through the program, Kyle has touched the lives of more than 630 military personnel and first responders, along with their families, through various events, both at Citizens Bank Park and in the community.
Highlights include the recent 24 hours of Schwarber’s Neighborhood Heroes (June 19-20), which led off with the second annual Schwarber’s Block Party, a sold-out fundraising event in Philadelphia for military members and first responders. The next night, Kyle opened Citizens Bank Park during the team’s off day to host a Neighborhood Heroes Appreciation Party for hundreds of heroes and their families, providing an evening of Major League fun for those who continue to make the ultimate sacrifice.
Kyle has also visited several local police and fire departments throughout the season, personally delivering lunch to thank each hero. In addition, the slugger often invites military and first responders, along with their families, to Phillies games, and hosts meet and greets on the field during batting practice.
Kyle has often said if he wasn’t in the Majors, he would no doubt be a first responder. The son of a decorated police chief and part of a family with many first responders, including his mom who was a nurse and a sister who served in the Army, Kyle has long used his Major League platform to make a difference. A leader on and off the field, Kyle Schwarber truly exemplifies the game of baseball, sportsmanship and community.