2016 COMMUNITY REPORT

P I T T S B U R G H P I R AT E S

LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Dear Pirates Charities Supporter:
We at the Pirates take pride in the fact that this organization has been a part of the greater
Pittsburgh community since the late 1800s. The passion for Pirates baseball is woven into
the fabric of our community, and has been shared and passed on from generation to generation
of families and fans.
It a tremendous honor and responsibility to be good stewards of such a historic franchise that
means so much to so many. It is with this same sense of pride that I share with you some of the
highlights of our community efforts this past year.
As you will read, our front office staff, coaches and players have joined with community
organizations, corporate partners, community leaders, fans and friends to help make an even
greater impact on the lives of others throughout our region. Together we have accomplished
a great deal, and together, we can do even more.
On behalf of everyone at the Pittsburgh Pirates and Pirates Charities, thank you for your
continued support.
Lets Go Bucs!

Robert Nutting
Chairman of the Board
Pittsburgh Pirates & Pirates Charities

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

P I R AT E S C H A R I T I E S

32

OUR TEAM

Youth Baseball

34

Extraordinary Efforts

16

Education

42

Team Events

20

Military Efforts

24

Cancer Support

28

Fundraising

50 C O M M U N I T Y O U T R E A C H
52 2016 Initiatives
58 Spring Training
62 P I R A T E S P A R T N E R S
66 L E T S G O B U C S , L E T S G O G R E E N
68 C O N T A C T I N F O R M A T I O N

P I R AT E S
CHARITIES
Pirates Charities is committed to strengthening the community by supporting organizations
and programs aimed at improving the lives of children and adults in the greater Pittsburgh
region. Pirates Charities places a special emphasis on supporting youth programs focused on
health, fitness and education by developing partnerships with those who share in our mission.
In addition to helping our youth, Pirates Charities provides assistance to military families
and veterans, and offers support to those in our community who are fighting cancer. Thanks
to the generosity of Pirates fans, our corporate sponsors and all community partners, Pirates
Charities is proud to fulfill this mission throughout the Pirates season and all year long!

Pirates Charities is a recognized 501(c)(3)

charitable organization. The official registration
and financial information of Pirates Charities
may

be

obtained

from

the

Pennsylvania

Department of State by calling toll free, within

Pennsylvania, 1 (800) 732-0999. Registration
does not imply endorsement.

YO U T H B A S E B A L L
The Pirates support projects and programs to grow the game of baseball by increasing youth
participation, helping more kids stay active through our national pastime, and empowering
coaches and community volunteers through education and resources to build better baseball
and softball programs in our communities. Whether through clinics, fun baseball events, or
grants to improve fields, the Pirates and Pirates Charities are committed to making baseball
available for all who want to play.

PA RT N E R S H I P S
The Pirates and Pirates Charities worked throughout 2016 to
expand youth baseball opportunities via partnerships with many
groups. For example, the ballclub worked with USA Baseball to
pilot a number of Fun at Bat events in Pittsburgh, including
during the PLAY BALL event at PNC Park. Fun at Bat is an
alternative to t-ball that helps develop skills while keeping kids
engaged. The Pirates and Pirates Charities also took steps to
improve coaching in our region by hosting training events with
the United Way, FISA Foundations Coaching Boys into Men
program, and the Positive Coaching Alliance.

BIG LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPS &

PONY LEAGUE WORLD SERIES
The City of Pittsburghs BIG League sports program again
hosted their championship tournament at PNC Park, and the
Pirates supported the PONY League World Series in Washington
PA. On Pirates Night at the World Series, Team President
Frank Coonelly addressed the crowd between quarterfinal games,
and Jared Hughes threw out a ceremonial first pitch alongside
members of the 1979 World Series Champion Pirates, Kent
Tekulve, Grant Jackson, and Omar Moreno. Pirates In-Game
Host, Joe Klimchak, emceed as the Bucco Brigade and team
mascots provided entertainment.

MIRACLE LEAGUE
Baseball Fantasy Camp for Kids, a nonprofit organization providing baseball opportunities for kids with special
needs, supported the Pirates Charities Miracle League Fantasy Camp program throughout 2016. Beginning
in Spring Training, Pirates Charities hosted five camps for Miracle League athletes featuring Pirates mascots,
alumni and current players and coaches!
The Miracle League of Southwestern PA celebrated the Grand Opening of a new accessible playground that was
financially supported by Pirates Charities. Pirates executives and minor league players, who were in town for the
ballclubs annual Pirates Community Commitment Program recognition, were on hand for the festivities.

FIELDS FOR KIDS

The Pirates Charities Fields for Kids program provides matching grants to improve youth
baseball and softball facilities. In 2016, 33 individual grants totaling $245,625 were awarded.
Individual grants ranged from $1,000 to $20,000, and were distributed to 14 different counties
across Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Florida. Over 7,435 youth were positively impacted in 2016 alone.
This long-time Pirates Charities signature program is supported by the Grable Foundation and
Pirates corporate partner Koppers also contributed to the program this year by providing funding
designated for field safety improvements.

OVER

10

$1.3 MILLION

IN GRANTS SINCE 2009

2016 GRANTEES

REGIONAL GRANTS SINCE 2009

Bauerstown Baseball and Softball Association

Beach Dawgs Baseball
Berlin Youth Baseball and Softball
The Borough of Carnegie
Braden River Little League
Brentwood Athletic Association
Burrell Baseball Association
Center for Anna Maria Island
Central Hempfield Baseball/Softball
Chartiers-Houston Girls Softball
Connellsville Little League
Deer Lakes School District
Deer Lakes Softball Association
East Bay Youth Athletics
East Liverpool Area Youth Baseball
Elizabeth Forward School District
Hempfield Youth Sports
Hopewell Youth Baseball Association
Kennedy Girls Softball
Keystone School District
Knox Area Baseball Association
Lakeview Knothole Little League
Miss Manatee Softball League
Oil City Junior Baseball

ALLEGHENY
COUNTY

HARRISON

GRANT
LEWIS

PHS Athletic Booster Club

Pine Richland Baseball Softball Association
Purchase Line School District
Ridgway Area Little League
Smithfield Youth League
Stargell Field
Urban Impact
Venice Little League
West Hempfield Athletic Association
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P L AY B A L L
In conjunction with Major League Baseball and USA Baseball, PLAY BALL is a youth-driven initiative
designed to encourage participation in baseball. At the Pirates PLAY BALL event in June, participants
age 512 received hitting, fielding and pitching instruction from Pirates players, alumni, and mascots.
The event was held at PNC Park with equipment provided by Dicks Sporting Goods. A nutrition station
and a featured Hoots Chalk Talk with the Taylor Hooton Foundation about the dangers of steroid abuse
educated participants on proper ways to stay active. Every youngster received a PLAY BALL wiffle ball
and bat courtesy of MLB, while Chick-fil-A provided a complimentary lunch for everyone in attendance.

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RBI
Pittsburgh RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) provides
baseball and softball programming to over 940 boys and girls
age 6-18 through the Boys & Girls Clubs of Western PA. The
RBI mission is to increase participation and interest in baseball
and softball among underserved youth through instruction
and competitive play, while encouraging youth to achieve
academically, demonstrate good sportsmanship and contribute
positively to the community.
In addition to providing full financial support to the RBI program,
Pirates Charities donated equipment and provided scholarships
to youth participating in local tournaments and clinics. Pirates
Charities also sponsored an All-Star team that traveled to Detroit,
MI in July to participate in Major League Baseballs annual RBI
Regional Tournament.

2016 PITTSBURGH RBI COMMUNITIES

Braddock

McKeesport

Carnegie

Mt. Oliver

Duquesne

North View Heights

East Hills

Swissvale

Hill District

Wilkinsburg

Homewood

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J U N I O R P I R AT E S
Junior Pirates is supported through a partnership between Pirates
Charities and the City of Pittsburghs BIG League Sports Program.
Through this effort, kids age 4-8 are introduced to baseball fundamentals
in 20 different communities. Pirates Charities provided caps, t-shirts,
banners and complimentary tickets to all participants.

2 0 1 6 J U N I O R P I R AT E S S I T E S
Arlington Recreation Center
Banksville
Beechview
Brighton Heights
Brookline
BUMP Yes
Carnegie
Chadwick
Cobra
Elliott
Magee Recreation Center
Morningside
Northview
Paulson Recreation Center
Phillips Recreation Center
Sacred Heart
Salvation Army
Sheraden
Squirrel Hill
WHAA
Westwood/Oakwood

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E D U C AT I O N
By providing educational opportunities for youth, Pirates Charities is contributing to the
future growth of our region as well as the growth of young minds! Pirates Charities partners
with several local organizations to offer programming in the areas of science, technology
engineering and math (STEM). The game of baseball is a powerful tool to demonstrate the
importance of education to children in our area.

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C L E M E N T E D AY
The Pirates and Pirates Charities partnered with the Pittsburgh Promise for a visit to Pittsburgh King PreK-8 on
September 7th to celebrate Roberto Clemente Day, which is celebrated throughout Major League Baseball to honor
Clementes humanitarian legacy. Before the event, the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, Pirates players,
coaches, and wives stuffed backpacks with food and school supplies for the students of Pittsburgh King. Pirates
players and coaches joined the Clemente family during a school-wide assembly while Pirates wives read books
with PreK students.

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GRAND SLAM SUMMER

Pirates Charities partnered with the Carnegie Science Center to
offer a Grand Slam Summer on the North Shore during the summer
of 2016. The Pirates Charities Grand Slam Science show, a school
assembly program created to show how baseball uses science and
math, played at the Science Center every Friday. Young Pirates fans
could also try out their swing at a new Pirates Charities batting cage
exhibit at Highmark SportsWorks.

E D U C A T I O N D AY S
More than 12,000 kids from 140 schools participated in two Education
Days at PNC Park. Students received a workbook created with the help
of Trib Total Media and PPG Industries Foundation. During a special
pregame event, students answered questions during a scavenger hunt
throughout the ballpark, and watched a special weather presentation
by KDKA TVs Jeff Verzyla.

REMAKE LEARNING
The Sprout Fund, in partnership with local education organizations,
hosted the Remake Learning Days rally at PNC Park in May. The event
invited teachers and parents to learn about educational opportunities
and innovations in the region, culminating a week of programs
on learning in Western PA. Pirates Charities made a financial
contribution to help make the rally possible.

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A C T I O N M AT H B A S E B A L L
Action Math Baseball is a learning tool for students in grades
4-8 that teaches math skills through baseball statistics. With
the support of Pirates General Manager Neal Huntington and
his wife, Becca, and corporate partner Chevron, the program
kicks off with a teacher training in January and concludes with
a World Series tournament at PNC Park in May.

A R E CO R D N U M B E R O F 2 ,1 7 5 S T U D E N T S
PA R T I C I PAT E D I N T H I S Y E A R S P R O G R A M F R O M
T H E F O L L O W I N G S C H O O L S A N D O R G A N I Z AT I O N S :
A.E. OBlock Junior High

PALS Enrichment Programs

Boys and Girls Clubs of Western PA

Pine Richland Middle School

Connellsville Area Junior High School

Pittsburgh West Liberty

Freeport Middle School

Saint Marys Area School District

Huston Middle School, Burrell School District

Sherrard Middle School

Imani Christian Academy

Trinity South Elementary School

Kane Area Elementary School

Urban Pathways K-5 College Charter School

Kiski Area Upper Elementary

Valley Grove School District

Moshannon Valley School District

Webster County Schools

New Brighton Area School District

West Mifflin Area School District

Oak Glenn Middle School Math Club

Winchester Thurston School

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M I L I TA R Y E F F O R T S
The brave men and women who help keep our country safe deserve our gratitude, respect and
support. With that in mind, the Pirates honor our service men and women, and offer assistance
and support to veterans in our region. Pirates Charities has partnered with a number of local
non-profit organizations assisting veterans and service members, through ticket donations,
financial contributions and outreach and promotion.

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TICKETS
During Spring Training, members of Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve were invited to
a pregame tailgate and a Spring Training game with the Pirates courtesy of Vet Tix. In Pittsburgh,
members of the military could also enjoy a game courtesy of the Pirates and I.C. Light through the
Military Ticket Donation program.

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M I L I T A R Y T H U R S D AY S
The Military Appreciation Days program continued in 2016, with eight military and veteran focused non-profit
organizations participating. Each Thursday, the Pirates wore camouflage jerseys to honor our military, and a
different non-profit organization was recognized on the field and treated to a day in the Pirates Charities Suite.
That organization also received the proceeds of the days Pirates Charities 50/50 Raffle, supported by Rivers Casino.

2 0 1 6 M I L I TA R Y G R O U P S
Helping Heroes

Life Changing Service Dogs for Veterans

Veterans Leadership Program

Heroes Supporting Heroes

The Mission Continues

Veterans Place

Its About the Warrior Foundation

Operation Troop Appreciation

In May, the Pirates were honored to receive the Corporate

Leader Award from the Veterans Leadership Program at
their annual Tribute to Veterans event.

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CANCER SUPPORT
Most everyone has been touched by cancer in some way. The Pirates and Pirates Charities
work to provide support for our fans and the greater Pittsburgh community for those who have
been impacted by this disease. Pirates Charities programs aim to provide resources, comfort,
fund treatments and research, and most of all, create a sense of community and hope for all.

24

P E D I AT R I C C A N C E R N I G H T
To raise awareness of childhood cancer, 25 kids affected by cancer and their families were VIP guests
of the Pirates and Pirates Charities on September 2nd. Their special evening began with a celebrity
head shaving event with partners St. Baldricks Foundation and Sport Clips. Pirates players Jared
Hughes, Starling Marte, Chris Stewart and Tony Watson along with several Pirates coaches got
their heads shaved by some of the children in attendance. Each VIP guest also received their very own
superhero cape during an on-field ceremony, which was presented to them by Pirates players, coaches
and their wives, and front office executives. Following the pregame activities, the group enjoyed the
game from a superhero-themed party in the Pirates World Series Suites.

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PITCH FOR HOPE

Benefiting Glimmer of Hope, a local breast cancer foundation, the 5th annual Pitch for Hope Womens
Baseball Clinic drew over 300 participants. On Sunday, May 22, women were invited to the ballpark to
participate in a baseball clinic conducted by Pirates coaches, followed by a raffle, brunch, and the afternoon
Pirates/Rockies game. Proceeds from the event supported the first Integrated Breast Oncology Pilot Program
at Allegheny Health Network.

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S TA N D U P T O C A N C E R
Pirates fans, along with Pirates Charities, raised over $23,000 benefiting Stand Up 2 Cancer (SU2C) and
Be the Match. Those in attendance at the August 5th Pirates/Reds game held up SU2C cheer cards during
a moment of silence to honor loved ones affected by cancer. The mission of SU2C is to raise funds to
accelerate the pace of groundbreaking translational research that can get new therapies to patients and
save lives now. The Pirates also hosted a bone marrow transplant patient and his donor on the field prior
to the game. Paired up by Be the Match, their meeting was the first time the two had ever met in person.

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FUNDRAISING
Pirates Charities is able to serve our community thanks to the generosity of our fans,
corporate sponsors and supporters at numerous fundraising events throughout the year.

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P I R AT E S C H A R I T I E S N I G H T O N R O O T S P O R T S
Pirates Charities Night on ROOT Sports, an annual telethon generously donated by broadcast partner
ROOT Sports, raised $720,000 for Pirates Charities and organizations providing help and resources
for underserved children.

2016 BENEFICIARIES
The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank Backpack Program
Beverlys Birthdays (providing birthday cheer for children experiencing homelessness)
The Womens Center & Shelter of Pittsburghs Childrens Program

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P I R AT E S C H A R I T I E S 5 0 / 5 0 R A F F L E S ,
SUPPORTED BY RIVERS CASINO
Raffles take place at every Pirates home game, and all proceeds go directly back into the programs
and projects serving our community.

P I T T S B U R G H P I R AT E S H O M E R U N 5 K / 1 0 K
The Pittsburgh Pirates Home Run 5K/10K, presented by Highmark and Allegheny Health Network,
and Family Fun Run presented by Chick-fil-A, took place on Saturday, April 16. More than 5,500
runners, walkers, and fans of all ages and abilities participated!

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OUR TEAM
The Pittsburgh Pirates players, coaches, executives, broadcasters, alumni and front office staff
are active participants in the Pittsburgh community. The Pirates Family can be seen visiting
with children who are ill, helping non-profit organizations raise money, serving a meal to those
in need or simply giving their time to brighten someones day. The Pirates are proud of the
outreach of all our employees both on and off the field and Pirates Charities provides the
support they need to make these special moments and memories possible.

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EXTRAORDINARY EFFORTS
Several Pirates players, coaches and front office executives go above and beyond to be good
community partners. They host charitable events, lend their voices to non-profit groups
and causes that are important to them, or even go the extra mile and start philanthropic
organizations of their own. The Pirates and Pirates Charities are proud to support our
players and staff in helping them contribute to numerous causes in our region.

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CLINT HURDLE
Clint and Karla Hurdle expanded their extensive support
of the Childrens Institute by serving as Campaign Launch
Event Chairs for the organizations recent Make An Amazing
Difference Capital Campaign. This project was in addition to
their ongoing efforts on behalf of the Institutes Center for
Prader-Willi Syndrome. Prader-Willi is a genetic disorder that
affects their daughter Maddie and thousands of other children
and young adults around the world.
Each year, Clint and Karla work with Pirates Charities to host
the Wins for Kids fundraising program where Pirates fans
contribute to the Center based on the number of Pirates wins.
Clint is also a national spokesman for the USA Prader-Willi
Syndrome Association and hosts an annual Spring Training
fundraiser for the group. He and Karla actively support the
Pennsylvania Prader-Willi Association through various
fundraising efforts and provide a special day at PNC Park held
during the season for Prader-Willi kids and their families.
For these efforts and many, many more community activities,
Clint received the Allegheny County Salvation Armys Doing
the Most Good Award at their annual November dinner.

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JARED HUGHES
Jared Hughes was the Pirates 2016 nominee
for Major League Baseballs Roberto Clemente
Award because of his unwavering and continued
commitment to the community. Each team
nominates one player for this MLB-wide award that
is given to a player who best exemplifies the game
of baseball, sportsmanship, community involvement
and the individuals contribution to his team.
Jared has been with the Pirates for his entire career.
He was drafted by the team in 2006 and, since
then, has recorded hundreds of hours of community
service in the minor leagues and, now, with the
major league team. No matter whether its a Pirates
Charities fundraiser, a teammates philanthropic
efforts or one of the ballclubs many community
activities or programs, Jared is always there! Hes
the first to volunteer to brighten a childs day, visit
a non-profit or lend a helping hand.
Jared designated his Clemente Award winnings
to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank
Backpack program, to provide food over the
weekend to children in need.

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ANDREW McCUTCHEN
Andrew McCutchen, the 2015 winner of the national Major League Baseball Clemente Award, continues
to give back in the Pittsburgh region. His many community activities this season included a special
day at the ballpark for a Make-A-Wish kid, and contributions to several local, non-profit organizations
through his Cutchs Crew Pittsburgh Marathon team. Andrew and his wife Maria attend many nonprofit fundraising events throughout the year, including the annual Art Rooney Award Dinner this past
April. The Rooney Dinner benefits the Catholic Youth Association, and Andrew was the 2016 recipient
of the Bob Prince Award.

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JOSH HARRISON
Josh Harrison and his wife, Brittney, formed the Josh and
Brittney Harrisons for Hope Foundation with the mission
of providing low-income children with clothing from the
cradle to college. Josh and Brittney hosted a Base-Ball
in September at Hotel Monaco to raise money for this
cause. The Harrisons also hosted their annual All-Star
Dinner earlier in the year to raise money for the Greater
Pittsburgh Community Food Bank Backpack Program and
Blessings in a Backpack.

GERRIT COLE
Gerrit Cole and his wife Amy hosted Uncorked for a Cause,
a wine release party and tasting event at Hyde Park Steak
House. The event raised money for Pirates Charities and
The Childrens Institute of Pittsburgh.

R YA N V O G E L S O N G
Pitcher Ryan Vogelsong and Broadcaster Greg Brown
participated in the 2016 Players for Kids Gala. Brown emceed
the annual event and Vogelsong and his wife, Nicole, shared
their faith and support of the Pittsburgh Kids Foundation that
benefited from the event.

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BOB NUTTING
Pirates and Pirates Charities Chairman Bob Nutting and his wife, Leslie, are involved in numerous
philanthropic causes throughout our region. The Nuttings are Honorary Chairs of the Carnegie
Science Center SPARK! Campaign, a capital campaign that will enable the Carnegie to build a new
Science Pavilion, which includes STEM Learning Labs and a new Special Exhibitions Gallery among
many other amenities. Bob also received a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016 at the Pittsburgh
Operas Maecenas XXXII gala for his work in philanthropy, newspaper journalism, the environment
and professional sports.

F R A N K C O O N E L LY
Pirates and Pirates Charities President Frank Coonelly is involved in every aspect of Pirates Charities
and lends his name and time to a variety of other non-profit organizations in Pittsburgh. In 2016,
Frank added the chairmanship of the United Way of Allegheny Countys Coaching Boys Into Men
Committee, and the Board of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Greater Pennsylvania and West Virginia
to his already extensive list of community activities.

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David Bachman Photography

for Pittsburgh Opera

41

TEAM EVENTS
Each member of the Pirates team plays an important role in the ballclubs community activities by
participating in Pirates Charities fundraising events, signing autographs, and simply spending time
with fans in our region. At fundraising events, players donate their time to mingle with donors, fans
and kids, shoot clays or play golf with sponsors and contribute autographed memorabilia. Pirates
Charities and its community programs and events would not be possible without the support of the
entire Pirates team, and we greatly appreciate the support of our uniformed staff!

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W I N T E R C A R E - A - VA N
The Pirates Charities 2015 CARE-a-van, presented by Highmark,
visited non-profit organizations in Pittsburgh and the surrounding
region to spread cheer and help children and families in need.
Pirates players, coaches and broadcasters made 24 stops impacting
13 cities by celebrating at holiday parties, buying warm winter
clothing for kids, visiting with seniors and vets, and participating
in many, many more community activities!

FAITH NIGHT
On July 20, Manager Clint Hurdle, members of the Pirates
team, coaching staff and their wives shared their faith with
fans after the conclusion of the Pirates/Brewers game. All fans
were welcome to move into the stands near the Pirates dugout,
and players and coaches took turns speaking to the crowd and
answering questions about what their faith means to them.
More than 12,000 fans stayed for this annual postgame event
presented by Chick-fil-A.

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P I R AT E S C H A R I T I E S
FUNDRAISING EVENTS
Each member of the Pirates team raises money for
Pirates Charities by participating in the organizations
annual fundraising events. Players mingle with donors,
shoot clays or play golf with sponsors, and contribute
autographed memorabilia to these activities. Pirates
Charities programs would not be possible without these
fundraisers, and we greatly appreciate the continued
support of our uniformed staff!
Pirates players participated in two charity golf outings
in 2016 the first at the annual Pirates Spring Training
Golf Classic held in Bradenton, Florida on February 28.
The second, in July, at the 11th annual Pirates Charities
Golf Classic on July 28 at Fox Chapel Golf Club. The
Pittsburgh golf outing is co-chaired by Pirates President
Frank Coonelly and Professor and Chair of the AGH
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Dr. Patrick DeMeo.
In June, Pirates Charities supporters and Pirates
celebrities spent the day at the beautiful Seven Springs
Mountain Resort for the eighth annual Pirates Charities
Sporting Clays Invitational, chaired by Pirates and
Pirates Charities Chairman Bob Nutting.

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T H E P I R AT E S C O M M U N I T Y C O M M I T M E N T P R O G R A M
The Pirates Community Commitment Program (PCCP) is an organization-wide community service program
for Pirates minor league players that promotes community service and awareness, and provides benefit to the
community, the individual player and the Pirates organization.
Near the conclusion of each teams regular season, each of the Pirates minor league affiliates selects one player from
their organization to receive the Pirates Community Commitment Award. Honorees travel to Pittsburgh, where they
are recognized in a special pregame, on-field ceremony and then watch the game from one of PNC Parks luxury suites.

T H I S S E A S O N S P C C P AWA R D W I N N E R S
Indianapolis Indians Frank Duncan

West Virginia Power Seth McGarry & Daniel Zamora

Gulf Coast League Pirates Nelson Jorge

Altoona Curve Jonathan Schwind

Bristol Pirates Shane Kemp

Dominican Summer League Cristopher Perez

Bradenton Marauders Connor Joe

West Virginia Black Bears James Marvel

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DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
The Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence asked Pirates players
to join them in saying NO MORE to gender violence in Western Pennsylvania.
Nine players loaned their time and support to the campaign via public service
announcements and billboard messages.

H O S P I TA L V I S I T S

PCADV Billboards
7/18/16
1

Pirates players paid a surprise visit to patients at the Childrens Institute of Pittsburgh in June, bringing goody bags,
crafts, and most importantly, smiles!

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P I R AT E S W I V E S
In conjunction with this years Clemente Day celebration, members of the Pirates Wives Organization donated school
supplies and packed backpacks to give to the students of Pittsburgh King PreK-8 in the Citys Northside. The ladies
also accompanied their husbands to King on Clemente Day to read to PreK classes.
Throughout the season, Wives collected travel size bottles of shampoo and soap from the players road trips to donate
to the YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh. The donations are used to prepare emergency kits for domestic violence shelters.
The Wives Organization is also active in several Pirates Charities fundraising events, selling VIP bags during Pirates
Charities Night on ROOT Sports, and creating and donating player-themed baskets to raffle off during Stand Up 2
Cancer (SU2C) night at PNC Park.
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BROADCASTERS
The Pirates Broadcasting Team Greg Brown, Joe Block, Bob Walk, John Wehner and Steve Blass can often
be seen at community events throughout the area as emcees, volunteers and champions of charitable causes.
Their appearances include, Greg Brown and Steve Blass hosting 65 Roses receptions for the Cystic Fibrosis
Foundation and teaming up to provide entertainment at this years Circus Saints and Sinners event to benefit
Pirates Charities and Brothers Brother Foundation. Brown also donates his time to many other events during
the year, hosted by the Pittsburgh Kids Foundation, Best Buddies, and numerous local schools. The newest
member of the team, Joe Block, jumped right in and emceed several Pirates Charities events, including the
annual Kurt Weiss Scholarship Reception for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

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ALUMNI
The Pirates are proud of their rich heritage, and no one represents the team better than its alums. A number
of former players have become familiar faces in the Pittsburgh community, even after their playing careers have
concluded. Pirates Alums make hundreds of appearances each year, and they all gathered together for the 30th
annual Pirates Alumni Golf Classic that was held at South Hills Country Club on July 18th raising over $93,000
for local charities.
In memory of longtime Pirates manager Chuck Tanner, the We Are Family Fund was established through Pirates
Charities in 2011. During Spring Training each year, a member of the Pirates minor league family is honored with
the Chuck Tanner Award that is given to the staff person who best exemplifies Chucks optimism, dedication and
commitment to the game of baseball. The 2016 Chuck Tanner honoree was Pirates Florida State League Hitting
Coach Kory DeHaan.

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COMMUNITY
OUTREACH
In addition to the mission-focused programs of Pirates Charities, the Pirates work with
community organizations and leaders to help raise funds and awareness for a wide variety
of important causes. The Pirates strive to be good community partners in both the greater
Pittsburgh region and the Pirates Spring Training home of Bradenton, Florida, working
alongside our corporate partners to make as big an impact as possible with our time,
talents and resources.

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2 0 1 6 I N I T I AT I V E S
In 2016, the Pirates proactively identified and partnered with non-profit groups in our community who
serve Pittsburghs diverse population, with a focus on youth and those who are underserved. Through these
partnerships, the Pirates provided a variety of educational, health, cultural, and family-oriented programs.
From Black History Month presentations on the Negro Leagues to Major League Baseballs Commissioners
Community Initiative complimentary ticket donation program, the Pirates continue to cultivate unique
opportunities to connect the surrounding communities to the great game of baseball.

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A U T I S M AWA R E N E S S
In conjunction with Major League Baseballs Autism
Awareness Day, the Pirates invited representatives and
families from Autism Speaks to enjoy a day at the ballpark
in the comfort of the Pirates Charities Suite. Families
were greeted on the field by infielder Sean Rodriguez, his
wife Giselle and family, and were recognized prior to the
game in an effort to raise awareness for individuals on the
autism spectrum.

P I R AT E S TA L E S
Pirates Tales encourages kids to read by providing
Pirates-themed incentive items for reaching reading
goals. 750 kids participated in this summer reading
program through the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh and
Allegheny County Library Association. 100 lucky winners
came to PNC Park to attend a Pirates game and listen to
a pregame story read by Pirates Broadcaster Joe Block in
the ballparks Press Conference Room.

53

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Throughout Black History Month, Pirates staff visited
local schools for an educational Long Live Their Legacy
presentation on the history of Negro League Baseball. Two
famous teams that played in Pittsburgh The Pittsburgh
Crawfords and the Homestead Grays were highlighted. In
addition to the assembly program, students at the following
participating schools received Pirates gifts: Evergreen
Elementary School, Manchester Academic Charter School
and Rankin Promise.

JACKIE ROBINSON
D AY P R O G R A M
Pittsburgh area schools were encouraged to participate in
Major League Baseballs national Breaking Barriers Jackie
Robinson Essay Contest. The contest is an opportunity for
diverse students to share their personal stories and show
how they use Jackie Robinsons values to face their own
barriers. This year, two students from Yough Intermediate
Middle School were national winners Renah Kozemchak
and Calyn Jones. They were treated to a school visit from
Jackie Robinsons daughter, Sharon, to hear about his
history and legacy.

54

L AT I N O C E L E B R AT I O N
Members of Pittsburghs Latino community celebrated their heritage
with the Pirates on September 7th with a pregame Fiesta Latina in
Smorgasburgh featuring the Gavas Band. Attendees enjoyed Latinthemed food and salsa dancing, while hearing from prominent members
of the Latin American Community, including Roberto Clementes wife
Vera, and sons Roberto Jr., Luis and Roberto Enrique. Participating
organizations included the Pittsburgh Latin American Cultural Union,
Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the
Latino Family Center and Pittsburgh Tri-State Area Universitys
International Student Engagement Offices.

AFRICAN AMERICAN
H E R I T A G E D AY
The Pirates invited the Pittsburgh community to help remember
our African American Heritage on September 9th with the annual
African American Heritage Day program. Diverse non-profit and
business partners attended the Heritage Luncheon with featured
speaker Tyrone Brooks, Major League Baseballs Senior Director
of the Front Office and Field Staff Diversity Pipeline Program, and
former Pirates Director of Player Personnel. Later that evening,
House of Soul entertained guests on Federal Street before the game,
and descendants of former Homestead Grays player and owner
Cumberland Posey were recognized on the field during pregame
ceremonies. In their matchup versus the Reds that night, Pirates
players wore Homestead Grays uniforms and the Reds wore uniforms
of the Cincinnati Tigers.
55

P I R AT E S C H A R I T I E S S U I T E
The Pittsburgh Pirates donated one of PNC Parks Luxury Suites to Pirates Charities to host non-profit
organizations, deserving families and special guests during the season. Levy Restaurants served everyone
a special ballpark menu, and all guests received a complimentary Pirates Rally Towel!

2 0 1 6 P I R AT E S C H A R I T I E S S U I T E G U E S T S I N C L U D E D :

31 Heroes Project
ALS Association Western PA Chapter
Action Math Baseball Program Winners
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Autism Speaks
Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh
Catholic Youth Association
The Childrens Institute of Pittsburgh
Extra Mile Education Foundation
First Responders
Higher Education Suicide Prevention Coalition
Imani Christian Academy
Jackie Robinson Essay Contest Winners
Make-a-Wish Foundation of Greater Pennsylvania and West Virginia

McGuire Memorial Foundation

MLB Honorary Bat Girl
Muscular Dystrophy Association
National Kidney Foundation
PALS for Patriots
PERSAD Center
Seneca Valley Supplemental Life Skills Support
Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art
Stand Up 2 Cancer
Urban Impact Foundation
VA Healthcare
Wesley Spectrum Services
Western PA School for the Deaf

C O M M I S S I O N E R S C O M M U N I T Y I N I T I AT I V E
Thanks to the Commissioners Community Initiative and the MLBPA Give Back Program, thousands of
complimentary tickets were distributed to qualifying nonprofit organizations. The goal of the programs is to
provide tickets to those who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend a Major League Baseball game.

56

57

SPRING TRAINING
When the Pirates head to Spring Training, the city of Bradenton and Manatee County welcome
the players, coaches and staff as they train and prepare for the upcoming season. Bradenton
is the Pirates second home and the team always makes sure to show their gratitude to
the community for its hospitality, which continues throughout the year by the Bradenton
Marauders players and staff.

58

A D O P T- A - S C H O O L P R O G R A M
Six Manatee County schools were adopted by the Pirates and
Marauders in 2016, in partnership with Manatee Education
Foundation and Mosaic. Each school received a financial
donation that was used for school supplies and educational
programs. Pirates players also visited James Tillman
Elementary Magnet School as a special surprise.

WA K E L A N D E L E M E N TA R Y
SUPPORT
Wakeland Elementary School is located right across the street
from Pirate City, and has a special relationship with the Pirates
organization. In addition to a visit by players from the Major
League team during Spring Training, the Marauders host
Student-of-the-Month lunches, and several Front Office staff
members serve as mentors for students.

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS

O F M A N AT E E C O U N T Y
The Pittsburgh Pirates and Bradenton Marauders are proud to
support the Boys and Girls Clubs of Manatee County. In addition
to an annual financial contribution, the Pirates and Marauders
provide in-kind donations to support the thousands of kids that
benefit from the Boys and Girls Clubs programs.

59

60

BENEFIT GAMES
At McKechnie Field, Spring Training benefit games raised money
for several community partners. A portion of every ticket sold
was contributed to charities including the Manatee Education
Foundation, Manatee Community Foundation and the United
Way. The Pirates and Marauders also make an annual donation
to support the Boys and Girls Clubs in Manatee County. Finally,
Veteran Tickets Foundation partnered with the Pirates for Military
Appreciation Day, which allowed local veterans to enjoy
a complimentary game a McKechnie Field.

L AT I N A M E R I C A
Estorga, Dominican Republic is home to the Pittsburgh Pirates
Latin American Headquarters. Through our players and staff there,
the ballclub works to make a positive difference in the nearby
community that has welcomed us so warmly. Each year, the team
hosts a group of local children to a holiday party at the baseball
facility. Kids are treated to a picnic, receive Pirates gifts and get
to play ball with the pros.
The Pirates also provide educational opportunities for our
Dominican players. In the Dominican Republic, many are unable
to finish traditional schooling, some dropping out as early as 3rd
grade due to a lack of federal regulations for schooling. The Pirates
provide individualized education programs for players at our
Latin American Headquarters, and in 2016, 15 players received a
Dominican High School Diploma. This was the seventh consecutive
High School Graduation at the Academy.
61

P I R AT E S P A R T N E R S
The Pirates are proud to work with our corporate partners to make a positive impact in the
community. These companies provide significant support to Pirates Charities, in addition to
countless other nonprofit organizations in the Pittsburgh region. Together, the Pirates and our
corporate partners work to use our collective resources to make the Pittsburgh region stronger
and enrich the lives of its citizens.

62

A L L E G H E N Y H E A LT H
NETWORK AND
HIGHMARK
Pirates partners Allegheny Health
Network and Highmark are strong
supporters of a number of Pirates
Charities events, including presenting
sponsorship of the Pirates Charities Golf
Outing, Home Run 5K/10K and the annual
Pirates Charities Winter CARE-a-van.

ARAMARK & LEVY

CENTRAL BLOOD BANK

PNC Park concessionaires ARAMARK

and Levy Restaurants support Pirates
Charities and give back to the Pittsburgh
community in many ways. ARAMARK
annually partners with Pirates Charities
on a holiday event for Pressley Ridge
as part of the teams annual Winter
CARE-a-van. They also generously
contribute to the Pirates Home Run
5K/10K, and work closely with the team
on all of its Make-A-Wish efforts.

Central Blood Bank and the Pirates

held eight blood drives at PNC Park in
2016. Donors received complimentary
Pirates tickets and had the opportunity
to meet Pirates alums. More than 1,177
units were donated this year, which
could save over 3,531 lives!

Levy Restaurants once again provided

a specially designed, discounted menu
for Pirates Charities Suite guests to give
them a delicious night to remember at the
ballpark. They also partnered with Pirates
Charities on Pediatric Cancer Awareness
night for a superhero-themed VIP
Party complete with capes, goody bags,
superhero dcor and, of course, great food.

CHEVRON
Chevron is a supporter of the Pirates
Charities Action Math Baseball program,
providing funding to help youngsters
improve their math skills. Chevron also
partnered with Pirates Chairities in the
creation of the Carnegie Science Center
"Grand Slam Science" program.

63

C H I C K- F I L - A

DICKS SPORTING
GOODS

Chick-fil-A is always ready to make

sure young Pirates fans and Pirates
Charities beneficiaries enjoy a good,
nutritious meal! They provide food,
free-of-charge, for a number of events
throughout the year including the
Clemente Day school program, the
Pittsburgh Pirates Home Run
5K/10K, and PLAY BALL!

Dicks Sporting Goods is committed

to increasing participation in youth
sports in our region. In addition to
their support of the PLAY BALL Clinic,
Dicks sponsored surprise Pirates
mascot appearances at nine little
league games throughout the summer.

COCA-COLA
Coca-Cola supported Pirates Charities by
donating thousands of bottles of water,
soda and sports drink at various events
throughout the year. Coca-Cola supported
the Pittsburgh Pirates Home Run 5K/10K,
the Pirates Charities Golf Classic at
Fox Chapel Golf Club, Miracle League
Fantasy Camps and more!

64

DONS APPLIANCES
Pirates Partner Dons Appliances stepped
up to help a local little league recover
from a natural disaster. The Connellsville
Little League was devastated by flooding
in the area. Dons Appliances partnered
with the Pirates to help them rebuild
their concession stand by donating
a refrigerator and freezer.

FEDEX

KOPPERS

FedEx Ground donates $200 for every

Pirates Stolen Base to Rebuilding
Together Pittsburgh, an organization
that brings volunteers and communities
together to improve the homes and
lives of homeowners in need.

In an effort to help meet safety needs for

kids in our region, Koppers donated grant
dollars to the Fields for Kids program,
so that youth baseball and softball
organizations in our region can make
safety improvements to their fields.

PEOPLES
N AT U R A L G A S
Peoples Natural Gas donates $25 for every
strikeout recorded by Pirates Pitchers to the
Dollar Energy Fund as part of the Bringing
the Heat program. The Dollar Energy
Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
whose mission is to improve the quality of
life for households experiencing hardships
by providing utility assistance and other
services that lead to self-sufficiency.

PPG INDUSTRIES
F O U N D AT I O N &
T R I B T O TA L M E D I A
PPG Industries Foundation and Trib
Total Media teamed up to provide
educational opportunities for young
Pirates fans by sponsoring the
workbooks for the Pirates Charities
Education Days program.

65

LETS GO BUCS, LETS GO GREEN

The Pirates are committed to sustainable practices by focusing on three key elements
recycling, conservation and awareness. The Pirates Lets Go Bucs. Lets Go Green program
integrates greening initiatives, sustainable business practices and educational outreach
throughout the Pirates organization and the PNC Park facility.

66

34.9
TONS OF ALUMINUM

TONS OF FRYER OILS

19

TONS OF PAPER

127.6
TONS OF CARDBOARD

111.4

75.6
TONS OF GLASS

31.9

T O N S O F O T H E R M E TA L S

146.6

75.4

392.6

3.4

THROUGH OCTOBER
2016, T H E P I R AT E S
RECYCLED:

T O N S O F YA R D WA S T E

T O N S O F F O O D WA S T E

12.3
TONS OF PLASTIC

TONS OF OTHER
RECYCLABLES

T O N S O F E - WA S T E

ROCK AND WRAP IT UP!

In partnership with concessionaires ARAMARK and Levy, the Pittsburgh Pirates support Rock and Wrap it Up! Inc. by
recovering prepared but untouched food from PNC Park throughout the baseball season. The collected food is donated
to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. A total of 2,872 pounds of food were recovered during the 2016 season.
67

P I R AT E S C H A R I T I E S A N D
COMMUNITY AND PUBLIC
A F F A I R S S TA F F M E M B E R S
P AT T Y P AY TA S

Senior Vice President, Community and Public Affairs,

Executive Director, Pirates Charities
MICHELLE CAPOBIANCO

Director, Community Relations

JACKIE HUNTER

Manager, Pirates Charities

CHRIS GANTER

Manager, Youth Baseball

C O N TA C T U S
P I T T S B U R G H P I R AT E S

PNC Park at North Shore

115 Federal Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
PHONE

412-325-4992

JONA DECHELLIS

Community Relations Coordinator

J O E L G R AY

Community Outreach Coordinator

ROBIN HANNA

Administrative Assistant
SARAH JUGOVIC

Assistant, Community and Public Affairs

FAX

412-325-4944
WEBSITE

D O N AT I O N P R O G R A M

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

The Pirates help eligible non-profit organizations

raise money and support their missions by donating
complimentary tickets and autographed items. For
more information about requesting a donation from
the Pirates, please visit pirates.com/donations.

pirates.com/community
@bucscommunity

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

facebook.com/pirates

68

2015 Pirates Charities Partner Recognition Celebration

honorees. Pirates Charities culminates each year
with a celebration honoring outstanding non-profits,
individuals and corporate partners.

P I R AT E S C H A R I T I E S