In a League with Miracles: Avalon Park Rotary Club’s Partnership with the Central Florida Miracle League

In the spirit of service above self, the Rotary Club of Avalon Park has always sought meaningful ways to impact our community. One of our most rewarding activities has been our partnership with the Central Florida Miracle League (CFML), a baseball league for children and young adults with disabilities.

Since 2005, the Central Florida Miracle League has played a major role in our community. As a local chapter of the Miracle League organization based in Conyers, Georgia, the CFML is a nonprofit organization and part of a global network of over 300 organizations across the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Australia, and Mexico. The League’s mission is to provide opportunities for children and young adults with disabilities aged five and up to engage in baseball, regardless of their abilities. The League is a haven for them to play, learn, and grow. Every spring and fall, the gleeful echoes of baseball games fill Trotters Park with laughter and cheers.

At the Rotary Club of Avalon Park, we have been proud to be part of their support network. During 2022 and 2023, our club members enjoyed volunteering at two Central Florida Miracle League games. Last fall, we rolled up our sleeves and got involved, laughing and connecting with the players and their families. It was great fun to cheer from the sidelines and even join in on some pitches. We heard firsthand about the players’ dreams, determination, and love for baseball.

The second Saturday was an unforgettable experience. We hosted a cookout and a media day and had the pleasure of inviting pitcher Charlee Soto, who was raised in Florida and recently drafted by the MLB to Central Florida Miracle League President/Board member Mike Houlihan emphasizes, “This is more than just a field. It’s a special place where our players feel safe, have fun, and grow. It’s a space that will continue to create unforgettable memories and miracles.”

Avalon Park Rotary Club members have supported the maintenance of the field and helped meet essential operational needs through donations. These efforts and the funds raised through club activities have made a tangible difference to the League and its wonderful players.

We invite you to join us in this fundraising campaign to support CFML’s new field. To learn more about how you can contribute, please visit the Central Florida Miracle League’s Facebook page or website at http://www.cflmiracleleague.com.

Moreover, the Central Florida Miracle League is organizing a registration event for special needs players in August. Scheduled for August 12th, between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm, the event will take place at Trotters Park in Orlando.

The Rotary Club of Avalon Park, established in 2006, has become a pillar of service and fellowship in the community. Their dedication has been acknowledged through the prestigious Rotary Citation in District 6980, highlighting their commitment to making a positive impact. Throughout the past year, they have completed approximately 40 service projects and fundraisers, particularly on food/hunger projects, which run twice weekly. By organizing signature events like the Rotary Craft Beer Festival, Poker Tournament, and Holiday Wine Walk, the Rotary Club of Avalon Park has raised nearly $65,000 (after expenses) to support designated charities, scholarships, and various club activities.

Together, they are driving meaningful change and fostering a spirit of service.