As the 2024 baseball season winds down, the Atlanta Braves are taking a moment to reflect on their heartfelt charitable initiatives, which aimed to bring joy and comfort to children and families in need. This year, the Braves continued their strong partnerships with organizations like Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA) and the Make-A-Wish Foundation, delivering moments of joy, hope, and inspiration to young fans battling serious health challenges.
A Year of Heartwarming Encounters
One of the standout moments of the year came when 14-year-old Joshua, who had spent over 100 days at CHOA due to multiple genetic disorders, had the chance to spend a day at the ballpark with Braves pitcher Tyler Matzek. The pair first met during Joshua’s lengthy hospital stay, and Matzek ensured his return visit was unforgettable. The young fan was given a tour of the bullpen, and he stayed with Matzek and the Braves family during batting practice—a touching reminder of how sports can bring people together, even in difficult times.
Other memorable moments included visits from star players like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies, who greeted James, a 7-year-old cystic fibrosis patient, during Spring Training. James, a huge fan of Acuña, received a personalized Braves jersey and had the thrill of playing catch with his idol. Orlando Arcia, Travis d’Arnaud, and other Braves players also took time to meet James, making his day a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Touching Milestones: Wishes Fulfilled and Children’s Health Celebrated
In late May, Charlie, an 11-year-old leukemia survivor, saw his dream come true when he toured the Braves clubhouse and met Michael Harris II. He also had the opportunity to play catch with Austin Riley on the field. The day was capped off by a memorable game between the Braves and Nationals, as Charlie experienced firsthand the magic of being part of the team’s extended family.
One of the most heartwarming moments came in July when Hall of Famer Chipper Jones gave 8-year-old Baylor, who has cystic fibrosis, the VIP treatment. Baylor enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of the Braves’ facilities, met with the legendary player, and spent quality time with Jones, creating memories he will cherish forever.
Fundraising for a Cause: Braves’ Community Efforts
In addition to individual visits, the Braves organization worked to raise funds for children battling illness. In September, the Braves launched the Braves Kids Campaign, a fundraising initiative that benefitted CHOA. With the help of fans and players, including a 50/50 raffle and a mystery baseball sale, the campaign raised an impressive $236,000. This money will go a long way in supporting CHOA’s vital work, providing life-saving treatments and care to young patients.
The Braves also dedicated September 8 to Childhood Cancer Awareness Day, welcoming more than 200 young cancer survivors and fighters to Truist Park. These children received complimentary tickets, T-shirts, and participated in a pregame celebration. Caleb, a 14-year-old leukemia patient, threw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Braves’ game against the Blue Jays. The event was a beautiful reminder of the resilience of young people facing cancer, and how sports can offer an escape and a sense of normalcy.
Spreading Smiles: Players’ Visits and Surprises for Kids
This year, the Braves didn’t stop at raising funds. Players like Spencer Strider and A.J. Minter took time out of their busy schedules to visit CHOA’s Northside Hospital, where they surprised young patients with a Nintendo Switch donation. These small gestures, while simple, meant the world to the children receiving treatment, offering a bit of comfort and entertainment during their hospital stays.
Braves Look Ahead to 2025 with New Family-Friendly Space
Looking ahead, the Braves are expanding their efforts to support families at Truist Park. The team announced plans for a new Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Park, which will be located in the left-field plaza between the stadium’s gates. Set to open before the 2025 season, this expanded family area will accommodate more than twice the number of families than the current Hope & Will’s Sandlot, providing even more opportunities for children to play and connect with their families while at the ballpark.
Braves president and CEO Derek Schiller shared his excitement for the upcoming project: “A day at the ballpark is one of the most fun and meaningful experiences families share, and we were very cognizant of that when we designed Truist Park.” With the increased demand for family-friendly spaces, the Braves collaborated with experts at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to create an even more welcoming and enhanced area for young fans and their families.
The new space will offer everything from batting machines to carnival-like games, creating an environment where families can build memories that last a lifetime.
