Visalia’s Valley Strong Ballpark is hosting a special night for individuals with mental, physical, and cognitive challenges. This event aims to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. Our House Founder Carina Carrillo emphasizes the importance of this event, stating that it allows individuals to truly be themselves.
Partnering with the nonprofit Adapted Athlete, the Visalia Rawhide has been able to offer a unique experience for individuals with disabilities. Ticket Operations Manager Dalila Palacios expresses joy in seeing these individuals have fun like everyone else at the ballpark.
The Adapted Athlete program, started by Executive Director Nikki Scholl, aims to provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to be seen and heard in the community. Over the years, the program has expanded to include private training clinics and sports leagues for hundreds of participants. With the dream of hosting a baseball night for these individuals, Scholl approached the Rawhide with just $5 through community support and donations, allowing family and friends to purchase tickets out for them.
In order to accommodate the needs of Adapted Athlete participants, adjustments were made by the Rawhide including offering picture menus for non-speaking individuals and adjusting sound levels throughout the night. The athletes had an opportunity to throw out the first pitch and sing
