Cleveland State softball team gives back to community

Feb. 19, 2007

Cleveland, Ohio - For the past several years, the Cleveland State softball team has been actively involved in giving back to the Greater Cleveland Area. Last semester, the team participated in five different community service events, gathering over 300 hours of service.

The Vikings participated in the United Way Days of Caring, helped restore a shelter for the AIDS Taskforce of Greater Cleveland and played a part in a Halloween Party for the local area youth at Cudell Recreation Center on West Blvd. The team volunteered for the Salvation Army's Coats of Kids Distribution at the Cleveland Convention Center and the annual Holiday ball for New Avenues to Independence, an organization that provides opportunities for people with disabilities and special needs to become more independent. They also spent an afternoon at Marion Sterling Elementary, delivering hats, scarves and mittens to the kids.

This semester is no different. The Vikings planned a first-time event, "Day at the Dome." This event included the CSU softball and baseball programs, who were partnered with Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland on January 23rd, as youngsters in grades 3-5 came to dome at Krenzler Field to interact and participate in activities with the teams.

"Our team really enjoys getting out into the community and making a difference in other's lives," said softball assistant coach Josie Henry. "Our program has been able to develop strong bonds in the community through great organizations like United Way and Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland."

Story provided by Josie Henry, Cleveland State Assistant Softball Coach