Yankees captain and former Diamond ‘Dog Aaron Judge announced the February recipients of mini-grants from his foundation, including to a Fresno County summer camp that benefits people and families with Down syndrome.
The mini-grants come from donations to the ALL RISE Foundation, which go directly to children and youth programs in San Joaquin County, Fresno County and Bronx County, New York.
The big picture: Improvaneer Summer Camp, run by the Down Syndrome Association of Central California, is one of three organizations to receive $2,500 mini-grants.
- The summer camp provides support, education and social opportunities for families and individuals with Down syndrome, as well as the community that serves and supports them.
- Funds from the mini-grant will be used to host two sessions of the summer camp for youth in the Fresno and Clovis area who have a developmental disability.
- Camp Caterpillar, of Hospice of San Joaquin and the Bronx House in New York City are the two other mini-grant recipients.
- Camp Caterpillar is a grief program designed to provide mental health services for children who have experienced the loss of someone in their life. It is held twice a year in San Joaquin County and is free to attend.
- The Bronx House is the first and longest-running community center in the Bronx, as it was established in 1911. The mini-grant will support the Bronx House Vacation Camp, which provides families with a safe and fun place for their children during spring break. The camp includes trips to places such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and other fun activities, as well as a one-day community service project.
What they’re saying: “Each of these recipients provide programs that align with the ALL RISE mission – addressing leadership and citizenship development, health and well-being, and community involvement for youth,” Judge said. “I am proud to support them as they improve the lives of our youth by engaging with them during important stages of their lives. Continued education, support programs and outdoor activities will have lifelong, memorable benefits for the children served by each of these organizations.”
