Contact:
Marissa Gleockler, Vice President of Communications
[email protected]

FORT PIERCE, FL: For over 15 years, the St. Lucie Mets have showcased an unwavering dedication to Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County, bolstering the organization’s three pillars – world-class Clubs, life-enriching programs, and workforce readiness. From extending resourceful donations, to introducing new programs, to employing Club members at Clover Park, the Mets partnership stands as a testament to the power of community and shared values.

This commitment to Clubs has been consistently evident, demonstrated through contributions such as donated tickets, memorabilia, and other enriching items that elevate the experiences of Club members. Countless children and teens have also been welcomed to the Mets ballpark to take part in both St. Lucie and New York Mets games. Furthermore, the St. Lucie Mets designate their annual “Boo Bash” to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County, showcasing their steadfast support of the Clubs’ mission and the long-standing Chili Cook-Off.

In 2021, a significant milestone was reached when the Amazin’ Mets Foundation donated a specially wrapped Ford F-250 to Boys & Girls Clubs to implement new workforce readiness programs. This vehicle has become a lifeline for Club teens as it tows their ‘Learn & Earn’ food trailer, which has served food to thousands throughout the Treasure Coast.

The partnership’s impact is amplified by the active involvement of key figures within the New York Mets organization. Paul Taglieri, New York’s Vice President of Minor League Facilities; Traer Van Allen, St. Lucie Mets General Manager; Kasey Blair, St. Lucie Mets Assistant General Manager; and Kyle Gleockler, St. Lucie Mets Assistant General Manager; have all played integral roles in the Boys & Girls Clubs journey, serving on the organization’s board and a number of committees.

Mets leadership also involves Boys & Girls Clubs and their members in a number of community outreach initiatives. In February, the Amazin’ Mets Foundation extended an invitation to Club members for the unveiling of Fort Pierce’s Jaycee Park. They have also hosted the Play Ball program at local Clubs where members learn the fundamentals of baseball from St. Lucie Mets players themselves. These initiatives have captured the hearts of countless Club members and fostered a passion for sports.

In a remarkable display of dedication to youth empowerment, Kasey Blair and the Mets have been deeply involved in Boys & Girls Clubs’ Youth of the Year program, which has contributed to back-to-back state winners. Blair also serves on the Chili Cook-Off committee, overseeing an event that has grown synonymous with the Mets and Clover Park. The team’s involvement ensures event success, community involvement, and further opportunities for impact.

Moreover, the St. Lucie Mets have consistently supported workforce readiness initiatives, hiring numerous Club teens for part-time jobs and internships. This commitment aligns seamlessly with the Clubs’ focus on preparing young individuals for Great Futures.

As time progresses, the partnership between the Mets and Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County continues to demonstrate the incredible potential of collaboration between sports and community organizations. Through their collective efforts and dedication to world-class Clubs, life-enriching programs, and workforce readiness, they’re sowing the seeds of positive change that will undoubtedly impact generations to come.