Of all the Mets that they’ve seen play over the years, they never expected to play with the one who has a giant baseball for a head.
That’s what happened when Mets mascot Mr. Met joined Councilmember Jimmy Van Bramer to play wiffle ball with kids at the “I Have a Dream” Foundation’s New York Metro Area affiliate on Wednesday, July 28 in Ravenswood.
The kids were ready and warming up at 10:15, 45 minutes before Van Bramer and the big-headed mascot arrived. Van Bramer later spoke to the kids about the importance of the program, motivated them to be successful and encouraged them to consider running for office some day. At the end of the event, the Mets gave the “I Have A Dream” affiliate 50 free tickets to a game on August 12 against the Colorado Rockies.
“I think it shows that we’re doing something great for the community,” said Catherine Diamond, Director of Special Projects for “I Have A Dream” – New York Metro Area.
The foundation sponsors, or “adopts,” kids in the community starting in third grade, and provides them with numerous resources through high school and beyond. They offer academic programs, including tutoring, mentoring and college and test preparation, in addition to cultural enrichments, performing arts lessons, health programs, field trips and athletic activities.
Founded in 1981 by Eugene M. Lang, the “I Have A Dream” Foundation has expanded into a national organization. Their New York Metro Area affiliate contains five programs, including Ravenswood, which supports more than 300 ‘dreamers.’ In addition to the summer program, they work after school and on school vacations.
“I think that many organizations do great work, but don’t have a follow-through [like this],” said Van Bramer. “It gives kids from Ravenswood a real shot at achieving their dreams and enjoying success beyond everyone’s wildest imaginations.”
With all bureaucracy aside, everyone had fun just playing ball with their favorite mascot.
“To hit off of Mr. Met pitching was a highlight,” said Van Bramer. “I had a lot of fun out there.”
And, it wasn’t just the adults that had a good time, the kids got into the action too.
“It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Kyle Olson, 13.
