MIRACLE LEAGUE RIBBON CUTTING

On June 18th, 2022, Easterseals Michigan’s Miracle League of North Oakland cut the ribbon on the brand new “Andrea Yatooma’s Home Plate Concession Stand.” A recent $100,000 donation from Greg & Chris Yatooma directly helped the construction of the concession stand.

The new concession stand provides employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The concession stand building also has accessible bathrooms equipped with special adult sized changing tables for individuals to use.

The league celebrated the day with a balloon artist, face painting, a silent auction, 50/50 raffle, complimentary food, donor wall unveiling, and the ceremonial first pitches from Andrea Yatooma and former Detroit Lion Lomas Brown.The national anthem was sung by America’s Got Talent contestant and Oxford High School student, Ava ‘Swiss’ (Swieczowski). To top it off, there was a triple header of non-stop baseball action!

Miracle League of North Oakland is Easterseals Michigan’s second adaptive baseball field, providing children and adults with behavioral and physical challenges an opportunity to play baseball as a team member, boost self-esteem, make new friends, and become more than an individual with a disability. The customdesigned field incorporates a synthetic turf that accommodates walking assistance devices.

Athletes are paired with an able-bodied volunteer, a “buddy,” who can assist them in batting, catching, throwing, and running. Every player gets a turn at bat, in the outfield, and the ability to cross home plate.

To view a special video of the event, scan the code below with your phone.