Diversity, Equity and Inclusion program returns to the Queen City

The Cincinnati Reds Youth Academy holds the distinction of being our first program following the NYC Premiere. We were really impressed by the Academy back in February of 2019. They opened our eyes to great things clubs are doing when it comes to community and impacting youth beyond the field. Since 2019 The Other Boys of Summer has reached over 70 communities, companies, schools, museums and organizations of all kinds. We've shared the film with tens of thousands of people as a grass roots Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Program and have seen the impact it's had and changes that have resulted from our program.

Returning to the Reds was special. This time they hosted 3 programs. We started at Great American Ballpark where their front office staff and crew enjoyed a lunch and learn. Reds legend George Foster joined us for a vibrant panel discussion. The Other Boys of Summer DEI program hit it out of the park.

Next stop was a return to the Youth Academy. The film was the centerpiece of a special evening celebrating the student athletes heading into their final HS baseball/softball seasons. Marlon Stiles joined the panel for a repeat performance. He's been part of the Reds organization as a scout for decades. Marlon was drafted by the team many years ago and has been helping mentor youth while teaching the importance of being a complete person because baseball skills and talent are only part of the equation. Any time you get to spend time with Marlon is time well spent.

Last stop was a community program at the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum. We were joined by an author and historian and Filmmaker Lauren Meyer was interviewed for "Let's Talk Cincinnati" for a segment about the Negro Leagues and their impact and connection to Cincinnati.

A very big Thank You goes out to Charley Frank the Executive Director of the Reds Community fund. He invited us to Cincy in 2019 and has been a strong advocate for The Other Boys of Summer ever since. Seeing the impact Charley has in Cincinnati leaves no question that the Reds are lucky to call him part of the family. Next time we visit Cincy we hope to do it during the baseball season where we can enjoy a day at the park and cheer on the Reds.