Paris, TX, March 24, 2008 --  Buddy Baseball, a baseball league for children with disabilities, is in its 3rd season in Paris.  The league has a variety of volunteer opportunities available and is in dire need of “buddies.”  By giving only a few hours of their time, volunteers not only make a difference in a child’s life but also create a positive awareness in themselves. 

One of the most important parts of Buddy Baseball is the “buddy” system itself-pairing each player with an able-bodied friend to assist them on and off the field during a three-inning game.  Guidance is generously offered by coaches, organization leaders and family members.  The Buddy Baseball program is looking for people who are willing to donate their time, a little or a lot, to help out in this capacity. 

Buddies can be fellow schoolmates, relatives, college or high school students, athletes, business leaders, Boy or Girl Scouts, or any individual or group who wishes to volunteer their time to give the child the gift of baseball and a smile that touches us all. 

There are only a few rules that govern our program.  Individuals must be 12 years or older.  Enthusiasm and compassion is key.  Affidavits are available for anyone who needs to meet requirements for volunteer hours.  The season runs April 5, 2008 – May 10, 2008.  Games are played on Saturday mornings from 10 am – 12 noon.  Players’ ages range from 4 years – 18 years. 

Become a “buddy” and you will be captivated by how much you are needed and cherished by the kids and their families.  In Buddy Baseball, the participants are not looked upon as handicapped but rather as friends and teammates. 

Volunteering doesn’t have to be a full-time job and can be flexible to fit your schedule.  If you or your group is interested in becoming an integral part of our “buddy” system, please contact Buddy Baseball Coordinator Deanna Tharpe for more information at (903) 783-1922 today. 

Background Information
Buddy Baseball is a baseball league for kids with disabilities ages 5 to 17.  The league is sponsored by the Red River Valley Down Syndrome Society along with the assistance of the Breakfast Optimist Club of Paris.  Buddy Baseball games will be played on Saturdays at Woodall Field on Hwy 271 south of Paris.  Each player is assigned a buddy for all practices and games to assist in play, but every effort is made to allow the player freedom to play the game to the best of their ability.  The Red River Valley Down Syndrome Society’s goal is to charge no fee to players who wish to participate.  Therefore, team sponsors and donations are welcome to defray the cost of the insurance and uniforms.