The Trash Pandas Foundation began in 2022 (the inaugural baseball season was played in 2021) and has become a special part of the North Alabama community. This 501(c)(3) organization promotes healthy lifestyles through sports and actively seeks out community non-profits to support as a way to give back to the region that supports the team.
The Trash Pandas Foundation hosts numerous fundraisers, auctions, and collections throughout the season to raise funds that support a variety of local non-profits in impactful ways.
One of the most exciting annual events is the “Meet the Team” dinner, where fans can dine with the Trash Pandas players, share stories, and spend time with other like-minded baseball fans! Jersey Auctions are also a big hit, offering the unique opportunity to combine a themed night at the ballpark with the chance to bid on a signed jersey by one’s favorite player. Players enjoy shaking things up and wearing uniquely designed jerseys for a handful of games per season and then letting them go after the game to the highest bidders. Win-win for all!
The Community Clubhouse Sale is another fan favorite. It features autographed team cards, broken bats, mystery baseballs, and batting practice gear. This event is a treasure trove for fans and collectors, and every purchase supports the foundation’s mission of giving back to local do-gooders.
For younger fans, the Youth Instructional Camps are a fantastic opportunity to learn from the pros. These camps teach essential skills, instill discipline, and inspire a love for the game, with proceeds going back into the community we all call home.
The Trash Pandas Foundation has a big heart for our local animal rescue communities and routinely partners with Friends of Rescues Inc., Greater Huntsville Humane Society, and Rocket City Rescue through Dog Days at the ball field! If you’ve ever brought your four-legged friend to a game or event at Toyota Field and made a monetary donation as the animal’s admission price, you’ve directly supported our area animal rescue nonprofits!
Fundraising efforts also occasionally leave the ballpark! The “Tee Up with the Trash Pandas” event is coming up soon at Top Golf in Huntsville! Scheduled for Monday, August 26th, from 5-8 pm, this inaugural tournament promises heavy hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, and appearances from Trash Pandas players and mascots. There are awards and prizes for overall team performance, top scorer, and best dressed. Get five friends together and join the fun while supporting the Trash Pandas Foundation.
In 2023 alone, the foundation donated $50,000 to various organizations across North Alabama. The detailed impact is in the 2023 Community Impact Report.
2024 has presented a handful of awesome ballpark events that have directly supported the Trash Pandas Foundation and local nonprofits, including nine Dog Days, four collection drives, and six jersey auctions on the calendar. Check out the rest of this calendar to see what’s ahead this season!
Did you know that fans can even book appearances by Sprocket, the Trash Pandas mascot, to show up at one of your events? This is all made possibly in part by the Trash Pandas Foundation!
Another way to support the foundation is to enroll your child in Sprocket’s Kids Club! A $30 donation allows kids to join the Trash Pandas family and enjoy exclusive benefits.
The Trash Pandas Foundation develops new ideas each year to support the North Alabama region and its residents to make our community better in a lasting way. Don’t miss reading the 2023 Community Impact Report. It’s good stuff!
Whether you’re a baseball fan, a pet lover, or someone passionate about youth development and education, there’s a place to plug and pay attention to the fantastic work being done each year with the Trash Pandas Foundation.
The Trash Pandas Foundation is always looking for new ways to involve the community. If you work with non-profits or have ideas for collaboration, you are invited to reach out to Trash Pandas Director of Community Relations, Maddison Kendrick at mkendrick@trashpandasbaseball.com.
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