Program supports the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

As our country shut down in response to Covid-19 all of our upcoming programs were put on hold or postponed indefinitely. We knew that meant we needed to get to work to figure out how to continue to inspire people and shine the spotlight on the Negro Leagues. It was not going to be possible for us to bring the program to communities and organizations in person for the immediate future. What we decided to do was dig in and research and develop a way to keep moving forward. We took strength from the resilience of the players we've had the chance to get to know and admire. The first place we reached out to was The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. Their doors were closed and they had very little source of revenue. I called Bob Kendrick, The NLBM president, and asked him if he'd be interested in joining us as a panelist if we created an online version of our program that we would use to host a benefit to raise funds for them. He said yes without hesitation. The next few weeks weren't easy but we had a goal and nothing but time on our hands.

On April 25 we proudly shared The Other Boys of Summer with people all across the country (and as far away as the UK) as a Benefit Event for the NLBM. Supporters watched the film and engaged in a vibrant discussion and Q&A. We received emails immediately following the program thanking us and some even asking how else they can support The Other Boys of Summer and the NLBM.

The next day we awoke to an article on MLB.com about the benefit. Thank you to Bill Ladson who attended and wrote the article.

We had been scheduled to bring The Other Boys of Summer to Citifield for 2 programs with The Mets on Jackie Robinson Day. We had many other programs booked that are also postponed indefinitely. The next few months and beyond are unknown. The top priority is health and well being and banding together to come back stronger. As of today, we are now offering our virtual/online program to companies, communities and organizations when they're ready. The program is the same as before - but now it will be a digital version while we can't gather in person. It's great to be able to provide something fun and positive during these challenging days.

We wish everyone the best and hope to see you all soon.

Safe at Home,

Lauren