Philadelphia, PA – October 6, 2025 – Since 2005, Pitch In for Baseball & Softball (PIFBS) has made it possible for 2.4 million underserved children in all 50 states and 119 countries to enjoy the games they love. By distributing more than $40 million worth of equipment, the Philadelphia-based nonprofit has broken down barriers, promoted environmental responsibility through equipment recycling, and brought the joy of play to kids around the world.
Now, PIFBS is celebrating two decades of impact with its 20th Anniversary Gala, to be held Friday, November 8, 2025, at Citizens Bank Park.
The evening will feature:
- Autographed baseballs from Mookie Betts and Jose Ramirez for VIP tickets
- VIP Celebrity Meet & Greet with local sports figures
- Exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of Citizens Bank Park
- Batting cage experiences
- Custom glove and bat design sessions, hosted by Wilson Sporting Goods and Victus
- Photo ops with the Phillie Phanatic
- Silent Auction featuring one-of-a-kind memorabilia and experiences
The gala will be co-emceed by Ben Davis, former MLB catcher and Phillies Color Commentator, and Dave Osokow of Connecktor Media. Guests will also hear from keynote speaker Natasha Watley, two-time Olympic medalist, MLB Softball Ambassador, and nonprofit leader.
In honor of 20 years of service and impact, PIFBS will also recognize a group of outstanding honorees whose leadership, generosity, and dedication have advanced the mission:
- Justin Briant, Minneapolis, MN – long-time volunteer and regional collection & fulfillment partner
- Dave Davis, Harleysville, PA – long-time board member
- Rich Gelles, Philadelphia, PA – long-time board member
- Zack Hample, New York, NY – avid fundraiser
- Little League International, Williamsport, PA – global partner in youth baseball & softball
- Major League Baseball, New York, NY – corporate sponsor of PIFBS
- Moldovan Family, Basking Ridge, NJ – long-time volunteers
- Aleshia Ocasio, Florida – softball advocate and volunteer
- Bill Piszek, Philadelphia, PA – founding board member
- Wilson Sporting Goods, Chicago, IL – corporate partner and equipment innovator
“Any child who wants to play baseball or softball should have the chance to do so,” said Meredith P. Kim, CEO of PIFBS. “For 20 years, we’ve worked with schools, leagues, and community organizations to remove barriers to play. This celebration is not just about what we’ve accomplished—it’s about ensuring the next generation of kids continues to have access to the life lessons and pure joy these sports provide.”
Ticket & Table Information
- VIP ($500) – 4:00 pm entry, exclusive perks including signed memorabilia, batting cage, VIP reception with food and open bar, swag bag, early auction access, and more.
- All-Star ($250) – 5:30 pm entry, player and celebrity meet & greets, buffet, open bar, silent auction, and activities including glove and bat design stations.
- General Admission ($150) – 6:00 pm entry, buffet, open bar, ballpark tour, and silent auction access.
- Tables of 10 – $2,500 (All-Star) or $1,500 (General Admission).
Silent Auction Highlights
- 2026 MLB All-Star Game package in Philadelphia – two tickets, four nights at the Courtyard Navy Shipyard, and access to the Players House
- Two Tickets to Field of Dreams experience in Iowa
- Four (4) VIB Bananas World Tour tickets + Bananas A2000
- Caesars Palace – two-night stay with show and transportation to/from the airport
- Four (4) 1914 Club tickets to a Chicago Cubs game at Wrigley Field
- Louisville experience package – Slugger Museum, Ali Museum, Derby Museum
- Eagles Road Trip package – Dallas vs. Eagles at AT&T Stadium + signed Deuce Staley jersey + $250 Delta gift card
- Two tickets to the Little League Classic (Brewers vs. Braves) in Williamsport, PA
- Rawlings Heart of the Hide duffle bag
- Four-night stay at Paradise Oceanfront Hotel, Wildwood Crest, NJ
Event Sponsors
PIFBS is grateful to our event sponsors and supporters – Major League Baseball Youth Development, Wilson Sporting Goods, Extensis HR, the Players Trust, Clearwater Security Advisors, Cypress Loan Management, Baseball BBQ, DJB Specialties, Nealman Construction, Diamond Nation, 5050 Foundation, Cleveland Guardians, Courtyard by Marriott Navy Shipyard, and Marucci/Victus.
Supporters
PIFBS is proud to be supported by Major League Baseball®, Wilson® Baseball/Softball, the Players Trust, Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, Minnesota Twins Community Fund, Cincinnati Reds, Amazin’ Mets Foundation, Athletes Unlimited, Cleveland Guardians, Little League International, Zack Hample, Marucci/Victus, Diamond Nation, and Mookie Betts’ 5050 Foundation, among others.
About Pitch In For Baseball & Softball
Pitch In For Baseball & Softball (PIFBS) is a global nonprofit dedicated to removing equipment as a barrier, so every child has the chance to play ball. Since 2005, PIFBS has distributed more than $40 million worth of bats, gloves, helmets, uniforms, and other gear to over 2.4 million kids across all 50 states and in 119 countries. Through partnerships with schools, community organizations, professional clubs, and corporate supporters, PIFBS not only helps kids get on the field but also builds confidence, teaches life lessons, and strengthens communities. By re-granting gently used and new equipment, the organization makes baseball and softball more accessible while also reducing waste, ensuring the games continue to inspire the next generation.