We can’t say enough great things about UMPS CARE and the incredible experience they gave our athletes and families at PNC Park!
Two of our Casey’s Clubhouse athletes and their parents had the chance to attend a Pirates game through this amazing organization—and it was unforgettable. Before the game, we got to meet and chat with the MLB umpires, who couldn’t have been more kind, patient, and generous with their time. They answered every question our kids had and made them feel truly special.
From the pre-game meal to the incredible seats right behind home plate, everything was top-notch and made possible by UMPS CARE and the Pittsburgh Pirates.
It was a day filled with baseball, laughter, and lasting memories—an experience our families will always treasure. Thank you, UMPS CARE, for all you do to support communities and shine a light on the role of umpires in the game we all love
My son was having a rough few months with baseball, and this program reenergized him in so many ways, not only for baseball itself, but also for working in the field doing something he loves! The organization was super helpful in providing him training, resources, and connections to launch a new chapter in his life. So much appreciated!
I would like to take the time to thank Umps Care charities for all the help and assistance with hats, handouts, and study materials for umpire training in the Florida Panhandle.
Over the past 3 years I have held over a dozen Free Umpire training camps in the Walton County Florida Area.
I received my training thru the Wounded Warriors Umpire Academy in 2021-2022.
I then attended the Wendlstadt professional Umpire course in 2023.
Soon after becoming an umpire I realized that our local area was not doing well in growing our own umpires.
Our local High Schools are using Umpires from another state because we don’t have enough here.
With help from a few local baseball people and Umps Care charities, we have provided Free training camps for 35+ people over the past 3 years.
At least 25 of the trained will work as an umpire at some level this year, little league, recreational, middle school, adult/church league.
5 of these umpires will work FHSAA Varsity for the first time in 2025.
Thanks again to Umps Care charities and everyone who supports training and recruiting new umpires.
The job to recruit and train new umpires never ends.
It is the most difficult and unrewarding part of the umpires and umpires associations jobs. I encourage everyone to put more effort in this part of baseball.
Joel “JT” Williamson
SFC, US Army (Ret)
Blessed to have been able to work with UMPS CARE. Working in professional baseball you come across a lot of great people that want to help. Umps Care program is there for anyone , this past year we had a family in Altoona that had 2 sons suffer major health issues. The one said was diagnosed with cancer and the other had a brain tumor. Umps Care was there for that family, they made a donation to the family to help with the medical bills along with having them spend a day at the Altoona Curve. They had a chance to get a tour of the ballpark, met both teams along with one player from the curve that was a cancer survivor. Met with the umpires, they were shown how the game balls were mudded. The boys also got the chance to be at the plate meeting. It was a great day, looking forward to more experiences with Umps Care.
My name is korey pontbriand and I’m a little league umpire that was Tragically hit by a baseball in the throat and almost took my life. After recovering I was invited to my first Red Sox Yankees game. I got to meet the officials before the game. What an amazing group of guys. We got the chance to talk experiences what it’s like to be in major league baseball umpire just A incredible group of guys that showed me a lot of respect for what I do For Baseball. The experience we had was incredible a night for sure I will never forget and cherish for the rest of my life. Umpire charities Are an incredible group. They were quick to take care of me in anyway that I needed while I was there at the park. I am forever in debt and internally grateful for everything they did.
“I am honored to share my deep admiration for Umps Care Charities, an extraordinary organization dedicated to uplifting youth across the country. Their unwavering compassion and commitment to making a genuine impact are truly inspiring.
The team at Umps Care Charities is nothing short of remarkable. Their dedication and heartfelt approach ensure that every initiative is carried out with immense care and purpose. It is a privilege to serve on the board of such a wonderful organization and to have Deloitte as a proud corporate sponsor.
Umps Care Charities consistently makes a positive difference in the world, bringing smiles and creating miracles for those who need it most. Their work is a testament to the power of kindness and community.
I encourage everyone to consider supporting this incredible mission. Your support can help continue the impactful work that brings joy and hope to so many lives.”
Paul Vetrano – Vice President, Deloitte Consulting LLP
UMPS Care Charities is truly an outstanding organization. I have had the pleasure to work with them for several years and they have such a love for giving back to the communities. The staff is exceptional to work with always professional, organized, responsive, and truly have a passion for this work.
Umps Care Charities Inc provided me and my wife with an awesome opportunity to go to a Colorado Rockies game and meet the umpires that worked the game. I am a disabled vet that umpires baseball in my spare time. So, this really meant the world to us. Thank you so much for making this experience happen.
My son participated in the free Umps Care class which teaches and prepares youth to become umpires. He eagerly attended every class and was happy to share with me what he learned each day. Umps Care invited all of the class participants, along with siblings and parents, to attend an Astros game to conclude their course. Before the game, the group met professional umpires, asked questions, shared a meal, and received course completion certificates. My son is now going to start umpiring for the Little League in our neighborhood. I am grateful for this memorable experience.
Umps Care was a great program for my son to learn more about officiating the game of baseball. He attended the training series and was able to secure work in our local community. I attribute the program to helping build foundational skills, knowledge and the confidence required to be a youth league umpire. We are thankful for the organization resources offered through this program.
Our nonprofit, The IOWA Foundation, was able to partner to bring the Umps Care Charities Official Leadership Program to Des Moines, IA. This program has proved to be very impactful in other cities across the country and we experienced the same thing in Des Moines which has been somewhat of a mecca for umpires in recent history. This particular program was made possible by the generous support of the Central Iowa community at the Eric Cooper Memorial Bowling Tournament. It also wouldn't have been possible without dedicated members of the umpiring community that came together to administer the 6-week curriculum and hands on clinics for the youth in the program. We are very much looking forward to continuing to introduce teens to umpiring and show them the opportunity that exists. We look forward to partnering with Umps Care again in the near future.
My children both received umpire training through Umps Care. It was a wonderful experience that translated into a great part time job that has taught them responsibility and confidence. They have learned how to conduct themselves and communicate with people much more mature than them.
My son was lucky enough to do umpire training and it’s been such a fantastic thing for him. At 14, he’s umping in our local little league. The staff at UMPS-CARE were fantastic and so encouraging. What a wonderful way to expand the horizons for kids who like baseball/softball.
What an amazing organization. I have been working with UMPS Care Charities for a few years now, and this group really knows how to cheer up patients at Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego. From the admin team to the umpires, these visits with sick and injured children really make a difference. Rady Children's is proud to partner with UMPS Care Charities. Let's make 2024 even better. Thank you.
Carlos Delgado, APIO
Sr. Public Information & Media Relations Officer
Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego
UMPS Care Charities brings enthusiasm, positive energy, excitement, and an overall genuine interest in bringing a smile to the face of our most vulnerable population. The passion is easily exuded and felt by all involved in a visit. To see how excited and special each child felt from the visiting umpires was amazing, and this is truly due to the passion that UMPS Care Charities has for what they provide to patients and their families. It was great to see each umpire interacting with patients, bringing smiles to their faces, making them laugh, and helping them find joy during stressful times. I'm so thrilled to have this wonderful partnership with this charity. Keep bringing smiles and keep up the great work!
UMPS Care Charities really does live by their motto “helping is an easy call.” This organization is an easy one to support as they have continued to add to their programs over the years. They have delivered over 20,000 Build-A-Bears at Children’s hospitals across the country bringing smiles to sick children and their parents, given college scholarships and moral support to older-adopted teens, held Teen Leadership classes/umpire clinics in underserved communities, and have worked with US Veterans and other local groups to provide ballpark experiences. They have hearts of gold and a terrific support staff keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes. Donating to them is an easy call.
As a Community Relations Manager in Minor League Baseball, working with UMPS CARE Charities has easily become one of my favorite experiences I have the honor of helping facilitate each season. UMPS CARE Charities provides amazing opportunities for children and their families. I highly recommend becoming involved with UMPS CARE Charities.
We love our relationship with Umps Care Charities. This is an extremely giving group and the impact they are making on some of our families in our local community is so impactful. We are very lucky to work with this group year in and year out and the umpires of our game. They are very gracious with their time and very attentive to the families that are recipients of the Umps Care games.
When I first learned about Umps Care Charities many years ago, I remember instantly feeling connected to their mission. The charity's initiatives for youth and families in need, as well as their generous efforts with families in need within the baseball community are always purposeful and creative. Over the years, I've also witnessed them jump to immediately fill the gaps with new and innovative programs that provide hope during unexpected and very challenging times and experiences. Every event that I've had the opportunity to volunteer for and every cause that we have donated to has been so very meaningful for everyone benefiting and involved, as well as have been well organized by Umps Care staff and volunteers who so obviously have a true heart for service. It's truly been such a gift to support with bringing their mission to action!
Myself and 5 others are volunteer Little League Umpires and being a volunteer umpire, Ump Cares wanted to recognize some of us for our contribution to helping children learn and play the game we all love. Umps Care reached out to us and arranged a meeting with a MLB crew when the Milwaukee Brewers played an upcoming game. We were brought onto the field and met CB Buckner, Chris Segal and Ben May; each of which is part of Jeff Nelson's crew. The crew was very generous with their time and smiles. Coincidentally, Ben is also from Wisconsin and well known in our area so it was especially unique to visit him in 'his office'. The atmosphere was fun and light as we traded stories, pins and took photographs.
As a volunteer, we umpire not for the glory but to perhaps help spark the players that could become the next big leaguer. To be recognized by such a great charity for what we do 'for fun' is a memory that we will all cherish for a long time. Thank you Umps Care Charities.
I just love it when Umps Care comes to San Diego and works with Rady’s Children’s Hospital. I have worked with them the last two times they have been here, and it is such a wonderful event. The joy they bring to those children that are fighting so many things is wonderful. It is such an emotional thing to see how the children of all ages react to building their plush animals and the great interaction of the Umps, the staff, and the group from the Padres. It is truly one of my favorite events to be a part of and Umps Care does such a terrific job making it all work. Thanks.
UMPS CARE program is one that I will tell people about. This program has given two of my sons an opportunity to earn money in baseball and taught them the correct way to officiate a game professionally. The program taught them rules,regulations, and professionalism, gave them monetary credit for gear, networking connections to find work, and introduced them to MLB Umpires, which has given them hope with big dreams and for that I will always be grateful. Thank you for a lifetime. The Olivarri Family
This program was great and my son, Troy McElveen, Jr really enjoyed it. He learned a lot about the other side of baseball as it relates to umpiring. He gain knowledge on the calls and what it takes to become an umpire. The program was very beneficial and we really enjoyed meeting the umpires before the game as well as listening to their personal journeys. I have more respect for the umpires, it's not an easy job. Thanks to Astros Youth Academy staff and Umps Care for organizing this program to student athletes for a better understanding of the game of baseball.
Amazing instructors and outstanding charity. The instructors are passionate and it shows when they taught us. I personally learned a lot and it gave me a new found respect and perspective in umpires/umpiring. Meeting different umpires and hearing their story gave me motivation and interest in umpiring.
Met Umps Care Charities through umpiring and my officials apparel business. What an amazing organization, not to mention the amazing individuals that run it. Very selfless individuals always looking for ways to help others.
My name is Angie Powell and I have been a foster parent for over 30 years in Chicago IL. The Umps Care program has been a wonderful benefit to the children of UCAN Chicago. Many foster children in our care are limited in their scope of possibilities. The UMPS Care program shows the children so many opportunities in the world of baseball. The hundreds of careers in a baseball organization are unbelievable to children who usually only think of being a baseball player, but to meet and speak to an Umpire, someone who not only oversees the game, the players, and the rules; but also travels ALL over the United States, attends games in every state and are respected by everyone! Not only do they have a very important position BUT THEY HAVE FUN !!!! The children are so impressed at the event. At the Chicago White Sox, they give the children a gift bag which includes a piece of memorabilia and snacks. So, food and toys, LOL they are in heaven !!! All of our children love to go, and we are so lucky when we are chosen to attend. Because I bring foster children, I have to also bring escorts. The children think it’s so funny when the adults are as excited as they are to meet the Umpires and to go on the field. I had a very good friend, Judge R. Eugene Pincham, who always said, “You can’t be what you can’t see” and my father was also a proponent for exposing children to everything you could, to give them more opportunities and choices for their life. Thank you, UMPS Care, for continuing both of those legacies by giving children not only the chance to dream but the tools, paths, and vision, to achieve those dreams. From the bottom of my heart, and from the UCAN Chicago organization, I thank you for helping children from all walks of life to see ….. LIFE !!!!!!!!
Umps Care embodies the name of their charity. I am a member of an organization called Wounded Warrior Umpire Academy. We are a group of individuals who are military veterans, wounded from our service time, who learn about being baseball umpires. Umps Care has teamed up with WWUA to provide mentoring and experiences with Major League Baseball Umpires that are life enriching and family oriented. They gave of their time and resources to give myself and over hundred plus members of WWUA and their families a once in a lifetime experience to go to a MLB game and see the behind the scenes view of what it takes to be a MLB umpire. They have spent time with us, answering the countless questions we have and shared of the passion for baseball with their time, which in their line of work can mean more than the funds they shared to ensure we and our families were the stars of the days we visited the ballparks. Umps Care gives more away than they receive and know that all funds go to support the activities and gifts they give to people to ensure their experience with Major League Baseball is individually special and unique. They are an outstanding charity to be associated with. Brad
The role of umpscare as the sole national non profit organization in officiating is instrumental for the development of the game of baseball. The organization brings people from all backgrounds together that share a common goal, a love for sports. I have been fortunate enough to participate in a couple of umpscare summer led programs. The executive team at umpscare is dedicated to helping young people in the community learn how to umpire and teach them tools to succeed in life. Umps care has had over 30 students come out in the Houston area to participate in the summer program and now many of them are umpiring in their communities. Thank you umpscare for always thinking of the kids. -M.D.
The role of an umpire can be very challenging. Umps Care is addressing these challenges through education and empowerment by connecting youth and families to professional umpires and training. It's start with our youth and families and their efforts is helping grow the game.
Friends of Jimmy Miller
Had an amazing time in Cincinnati meeting Phil Cuzzi and Cory Blaser, and talking about the working relationship the Friends of Jimmy Miller has had with Umps Care of the years. Umps Care does some amazing work to provide comfort, encouragement, and support to children and their families. Their motto is truly their belief in that "Helping People is an Easy Call".
DJ Nadeau
Director of Charitable Giving
Friends of Jimmy Miller
Hi! I am the State UIC for USFA in Mississippi. In April I was umpiring a game in Laurel, MS when a mom got angry over a call I made and punched me in the face as I was leaving the field. I made a post on my Facebook, and it went viral. Umps Care Charities reached out to me and was just amazing! They were SO supportive and arranged a call for me to talk to a MLB umpire. In addition to that, they paired with the Atlanta Braves and organized a trip for me to attend a Braves game and announce the Play Ball call before the game. It was such an amazing experience. Amy Rosewater with Umps Care has simply been wonderful to me! She still checks on me and is so caring. I had the honor to meet Mr. Gary Darling at the National Associate for Sports Officials summit in Denver, Co. He was so concerned and kind. Umps Care Charities is simply such an amazing charity that does so many fantastic things! They play a huge part in why I am still umpiring today! My life has definitely been blessed by them and I am forever grateful.
UMPSCARE Charities is among my favorite organizations in the world. As someone who has been an umpire the majority of my life, I truly appreciate an organization involving MLB umpires giving back in so many ways. I am proud to support UMPSCARE in various ways because it is easy to see how authentic everything is and how much of an impact is made in the lives of people who have battled through tough times. I am very proud to be a supporter and a friend to UMPSCARE! From hospital visits and build a bears to in person meet and greets at the ballpark and beyond, UMPSCARE is an organization you can count on to always make great magic happen and your contribution will always make a difference. Helping people is an easy call!
It was a true privilege to partner with Umps Care and MLB Umpire Pat Hoberg as we honored six Iowa Vietnam and Korean War Veterans at Target Field this Summer. Jenn, Amy, and the entire Umps Care staff catered to the needs of our group from start to finish. Thanks to the dedicated Umps Care team, our local heroes had a day they will cherish and remember for the rest of their lives. Make no mistake, every day is Kids Day and/or Veterans Day at Umps Care! This is an amazing non-profit group that truly walks the walk with their actions and support!
Joe Nelson
Superintendent of Schools, Clarion-Goldfield-Dows, Iowa
Our 16 year old daughter is an umpire! It's all due to the Umps Care Charities!
In the winter of 2021, the Umps Care Charities program partnered with my daughters softball team to offer their umpiring program. She was rehabbing a partially torn acl at the time and dying to do anything involved in the game. She took these classes not knowing if she would ever be interested in umping, but by the time it was over, she couldn't wait! She learned the basic principles of umpiring, good work ethics, financial literacy and more!
This is not offered anywhere in our local community and we are so happy and thankful to Umps Care. This charity offered an incredible opportunity to her and they opened her up into a whole new world of opportunities she didn't even realize she can do!
Our lives came full circle when our daughter took her position, behind the plate, in May for the 1st time as an umpire, because it was the field she used to play on when she was younger!
Thank you Umps Care Charities, may this program continue to grow and thrive and give other children and teens across the country the same opportunity!
I will end this in the words of my daughter:
"If I can offer any advice, it’s to come out of your comfort zone and try it. You get to meet new people and learn the game in a new way. It really has been amazing.”
The "Team" at Umps Care is second to none! Working with them during my K's for Kids Fundraiser during the 2021 Little League World Series was one of the most rewarding and gratifying things that I have experienced. It's a great organization run by great people dedicated to helping kids and families using baseball as a springboard to accomplish their mission. I am proud to say that I have made some new friends and look forward to helping them raise more in the future. #helpingpeopleisaneasycall
Working with Umps Care Charities is the most amazing experience. I love what they do and their mission. I volunteered myself and Charity Committee at work to volunteer to put together the goody bags for the children's hospital. The time spent putting these together was worth it especially seeing the smiles on the children's faces. Umps Care is a great organization and I look forward to working with them again.
I have been involved with umps care charities for a couple of years. It is an amazing organization trying to bring a little light into the lives of young children and young adults. The diversity of the programs from the blue crew tickets, blue for kids to the college scholarships for kids adopted later in life touch a wide variety of lives and truly make a difference!
As a longtime partner of Umps Care, I can unequivocally report that the entire team, and all of their work, is grand slam! The staff is organized, efficient, and professional. The Umps are caring and very engaging with Bounce Kiddos/Siblings/Parents. As we work every day to transform the lives of chronically ill children, and their families, Umps Care is an amazing partner that has created once-in-a-lifetime memories for those we serve!! Thanks Umps! Joan Steltman, CEO Bounce Children's Foundation
During the summer, I was invited to collaborate with the amazing staff of UMPS CARE Charities to help launch their new Official Leadership Program. This new and exciting program is designed to train and educate high school and college age girls and boys in basic umpire skills, character education, financial independence, and much more. The UMPS CARE Charities staff gets things done efficiently, promptly, and exceeds expectations. This is a grand slam organization on every level!
UmpsCare Charities is my favorite charity organization. I am an umpire and also work for ump-attire.com who is a proud sponsor of UmpsCare. Through these two organizations, I have been fortunate enough to see first hand some of the amazing things that UmpsCare makes happen for a lot of great people. UmpsCare recently provided an awesome MLB weekend for the Wounded Warrior Umpire Academy. I became a part of their organization this year and was given the opportunity to attend one of the MLB games with one of the WWUA umpires who is a retired marine. Thanks to UmpsCare, we enjoyed a great night out at the game and in the process became friends and now we will connect more in the future as he does some work with veterans right in my home town. There is no shortage of great things to say about UmpsCare. What they are doing for children in need and for veterans and many others is truly life changing for some of these individuals and it is amazing to witness! Thank you to everyone involved for the great things you make happen.
This was an amazing opportunity to not only give back to the community I serve but also a chance to engage with patients who remind me why what I do in the healthcare industry is so important. The Umps staff was energetic, driven, and so welcoming. I would not hesitate to work with them again in the near future. This is definitely an opportunity you do not want to miss if even the chance.
I have had the honor and privilege to work with UMPS CARE in multiple roles. Shortly after I started working for Referee Magazine and the National Association of Sports Officials, I had the opportunity to interview the staff of UMPS CARE for an article on the great things they were doing in the baseball community and I quickly determined I wanted to be a part of what they were doing. I jumped at the chance to join the BLUE Crew Insiders Club and couldn't be happier to donate to such an amazing charity. I have had the opportunity to participate in multiple events sponsored by UMPS Care and due to the nature of my work, reach out to the staff A LOT. They are always professional, respond quickly, work tirelessly to get me answers and help coordinate interviews. I am thankful to have the relationship with the staff at UMPS CARE and look forward to partnering on more events in the future and am excited to see the charity grow!
I have the opportunity to work with Umps Care as an umpire instructor for their Youth Umpire Development Program. The program selects kids from the Houston Astros Urban Youth Academy who might not have the resources to begin umpiring but have the love of game. This program teaches not only the basic principals of umpiring, but also good character, financial literacy, good work ethic, and responsibility. The kids are a gem to work with, and Umps Care is a great foundation to provide those kids with an opportunity.
The experience that UMPS Care has given to DREAM (formerly Harlem RBI) youth over the years has been incredible! They have provided once in a life time experiences that involved visiting Major League Baseball stadiums and having unparalleled access to MLB Umpires, along with the opportunity to stay and watch the games! They are so thoughtful and professional, always making sure doing what's best for our youth is top priority, and we are so lucky to have them as partners in this work. Keep up the amazing and impactful work!
Our experience with the Umps Care Charities was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our family. As HUGE baseball fans, we jumped at the opportunity to take part in this day.
Our specific experience was an offer to Active Duty Military members in Washington state. The game was between the Seattle Mariners and the Detroit Tigers. To begin the day, we were invited into the VIP lounge at T-Mobile stadium. We had time to look around the Mariners Hall-of-Fame which even as a die-hard Cubs fan was a very cool experience. After hanging out in the VIP lounge we were taken to the Umpires locker room where we met each of the 4 crew members and had a chance to hang out with them and ask them about life as a Major League umpire. After visiting in the dugout we were able to go out through the Mariners dugout and on to the field. We hung out on the field for about 30 minutes before the game and were able to take lots of pictures and watch the grounds crew prep the field for the game. As an added bonus, the umpires gave each of us a game ball and even gave my son an UMPS Care hat and a $20 voucher for food during the game. After the on-field visit we watched the game from great first base line club level seats.
This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that we will never forget. This day will be a memory I hold fondly for the rest of my life. The entire experience was first class. The members of Umps Care went above and beyond any of our expectations.
Thank you to all who made this day possible.
A special thank you to our coordinator, Gina Luplow who was with us all day and a huge part of our experience. And of course to our four umpires from Crew S: Crew Chief Ted Barrett, and umpires Kerwin Danley, Lance Barksdale and our fellow Chicagoan John Tumpane. Keep up the great work fellas. You have at least three fans in the stand when you are out on the field!!
Umps Care was amazing to us! We had a fabulous experience that our whole family will remember for the rest of our lives. Three Major League Baseball umpires met us on field at the Rogers Centre in Toronto, along with a professional photographer! We felt like rock stars! They shared stories of working the World Series, umpire school details and how they work as a team! They signed items, took multiple photos and were very patient and kind. My son was giddy with excitement. From start to finish things were easy and everyone we dealt with was very kind. This is a fabulous charity that makes children with various challenges feel important and cared about!
As the Event Manager with the USO Northwest, I was contacted by Umps Cares, to see if we could find a military family or group to meet with the officiating umpires for a Tacoma Rainiers game and then attend the game. I looked into what Umps Cares Charities is about and found that through UMPS Care Charities, at-risk youth, children battling chronic illness, kids in foster care, and military families in every Major League and every Triple-A market across the country receive a “big league” experience. Let me tell you they did not disappoint.
There are three things I find very, very rewarding about Umps Care. The first is the way that it keeps me informed and involved with a game that I love. The baseball connections are constant and offer a side of the sport not known to everyone. The second aspect that I enjoy is the knowledge that my financial donations are being put to immediate and good use. I know that the money I send their way is ending up where it ought to be. Finally, I have found the individuals involved in the charity to be responsive and helpful whenever I do get in touch with them. The staff is accessible, affable and dedicated.
My charitable dollars are well spent when they make their way to Umps Care...no need to review that call!
Dr. Thomas P. Dolan
Umps Care Charities has been bringing smiles to our pediatric patients and families for many years now! I always remember the first time they came with their Build a Bears and outfits and certificates and bear homes! It was quite a sight! What I truly love about them is that they are so organized and detail oriented, while still being open and flexible to the needs of our pediatric healthcare environment. All the UMPS and staff were so at ease with everyone they encountered, smiling and engaging in light conversation making all the visits truly enjoyable! Many of our chronic patients now bring their bears back and forth to the hospital with them and they have become a true source of comfort during these healthcare experiences. Thanks for all you do Umps Cares Charities!! Meghan D. Kelly, MSEd, CCLS, Director of Child Life, Patient and Family Programs, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, NY
Umps Care Charities went above and beyond to make our visiting youth umpires feel welcome and special. What I liked most was that the pro's took the time to answer questions and show a human side to their profession. It allowed us to meet the umpires as human beings and listen to their baseball stories and experience.
I like to say that it's impossible to look at a photo from one of the UMPS CARE events and ever yell at an ump at a ball game again.
Look at the smiles, the radiant faces -- on both the umpires and the kids they're with, both during the hospital visits and the ballpark tours. While this year has obviously been different, I commend UMPS CARE for finding ways to STILL send love and support to their target audience.
But man, those smiles -- you just can't replace those smiles and you just can't forget them. And you can't ever stop thanking and supporting everyone who plays a part in bringing them.
So that's why I'm still and will always be an UMPS CARE Charities volunteer and supporter.
UMPS Care Charities helps enhance our program at Most Valuable Kids, and provide once in a lifetime experiences for the under-served kids we work with. Being able to meet a major league umpire is something these kids would typically not even be able to dream of, but UMPS Care make it happen! Being able to hear the stories of the umpires career paths opens up their minds to new possibilities and helps them DREAM BIG!
What I love most about this charity - besides how much fundraising goes directly to those in need - is how those behind the charity are the only ones who can do what they can do.
As Major League umpires, they are so connected to a game everyone loves on a big stage. Through their on-field pre-games and tickets to children and families to their pre-game hospital visits to sick children in cities where they have games, the charity provides a bridge to pro baseball, and all that embodies, in a way only they can.
Additionally, what I’ve noticed is how they recognize gaps in need. Umpires at any level who have fallen on hard times due to an illness, fire or other tragedy? Their family committee provides direct financial assistance.
Scholarships needed for children adopted late on life, because those families had little time to save? Their All-Star scholarship provides funds for all years of college to one recipient each year.
Umps Care does what it does because they can where others can’t. We at Ump-Attire.com choose to support them year-in-and-year-out because they can do things we can’t.
I believe this is the best charity in baseball that most have not heard of. Our support makes a bigger impact than at those charities most have.
If you are considering supporting Umps Care, know that you’ll see an immediate, positive impact equal to your level of support.
I was an UMPS Care scholar from 2012-2016. During this time, not only did I receive money for college, but I also received support from the UMPS Care family and care packages every semester. In January 2018, I had the pleasure of meeting many of the umpires that are part of the organization when I spoke at a charity benefit. They truly care about their scholars and children in foster. They still keep in touch and I couldn’t be happier to be a part of a meaningful organization!
I was an UMPS Care scholar from 2012-2016. During this time, not only did I receive money for college, but I also received support from the UMPS Care family and care packages every semester. In January 2018, I had the pleasure of meeting many of the umpires that are part of the organization when I spoke at a charity benefit. They truly care about their scholars and children in foster. They still keep in touch and I couldn’t be happier to be a part of a meaningful organization!
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I entered foster care at the age of 9, and my life was changed forever. My foster mom adopted me at the age of 13, and I got a new start and a bright future. After working hard, I was able to fulfil my dream of attending Butler University, but I couldn’t have done it without my Umps Care Allstar Scholarship. Not only did Umps Care provide financial support, I also received a sponsor umpire. Ted Barrett and his lovey wife Tina sent me care packages at finals to give me encouragement. I was also able to attend a baseball game that Ted was umpiring. Last year, I flew out to Phoenix to speak to umpires about my experience and how Umps Care changed my life. Umps Care has been more than just a scholarship; they’ve been a family.
As a former UMPS Care Charities All-Star Scholarship recipient; I can say the support from this organization changed my life. Not only was the financial support pivotal in allowing me to pursue higher education, but the mentorship and support they offered was critical in instilling me with confidence and empowering me to realize what I was capable of accomplishing.
Much of my success is built upon the foundation of support from UMPS.
I am proud to be a member of the UMPS family. Thank you for all you’ve done for me and you continue to do for communities across the nation.
Working closely to support our military and their families with the UMPS Care Charities has been an amazing experience. Giving our heroes an experience they will never forget is truly touching. Thank you UMPS Care and the HOUSTON Astros Foundation!
Thanks,
Speedy
USO HOUSTON
What a phenomenal charity. Amazing how hard these umpires work during the season, how poorly they can get treated in the press from time to time, yet will stop everything they are doing and bring significant blessings to so many kids and families across the country. The hearts they touch, the dreams they make real, the scholarships they provide. Truly an amazing charity. Keep up the tremendous work Umps Care!
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As children, we all had our sports hero's and/or idols, those people we looked up to and admired for all their tremendous accomplishments in their particular profession. But then as we get older, we often lose sight of what heroes really look like. For me, Umps Care Charity takes me back to my childhood and has allowed me to refine my definition of what heroes really do look like and realize that heroes really do exist. The Major League Baseball Umpire’s charity, Umps Care, is having a profound impact on the lives of hundreds of kids and families - each year. It’s because they focus on ‘the why’ they are doing this, that they are having generational impact. The Umpires make it clear, this charity is not about them, it’s about the benefactors they serve. Get involved in Umps Care, allow yourself to be inspired and, once again, be able to appreciate what true hero’s look like.
I am the youth Umpire trainer (and umpire) for a Little League in Nor Cal, and enjoyed the privilege of Umps Care hosting our youth umpires at an Oakland A's game. The great staff of Umps Care and Oakland A's made all the arrangements for six of us to meet umpires Mark Wegner, Nic Lentz, and Stu Scheurwater on the field before the game.
These young men were incredibly warm and generous with their time and showed a genuine appreciation for our young umpires as we talked of the highs and challenges of being umpires at any level. They gave tremendous insights into life as an MLB umpire and advice on techniques for making calls or handling difficult situations. They made our youth umpires feel proud to be umpires. Mark, Nic and Stu demonstrated a strong connection as a team and provided thoughtful comments about the evolving game and impact on umpires.
It was a brief time that we will always remember. Thanks so much to Umps Care and the hard-working umpires that volunteered their time to make our kids feel special!
Umps Care Charities provided an unforgettable experience for the underprivileged youth that we serve in the San Francisco community. A day at the S.F. Giants Oracle park stadium for a home game, field access to meet the umpires, a gift bag with several nice items and a food voucher. This experience is out of reach financially for so many youth in the tenderloin community. It was a memorable and rewarding afternoon for these youth. On behalf of the Larkin Street Youth Services, we appreciate the genuine and generous support of the Umps care Charities organization.
Umps Care Charities is such an amazing organization! I have seen firsthand the work they do to bring smiles to children's faces. Umps Care’s Blue Crew Ticket program provides children with a once-in-a lifetime experience providing them a unique connection to the game of baseball. The umpires are always so involved and you can tell that they absolutely love doing this program! Thank you to Umps Care Charities for all that you do in the community...and a special thanks to all of the MLB and MiLB umpires who make these experiences so unforgettable!
- MacKenzie Hickox
I joined Big Brothers Big Sisters in April 2019 and I had heard that there would be opportunities to do 'fun things' but, I had never imagined that we would be attending a Red Sox game- much less the Sox vs Yankees-! Umps Care had made this possible to BBBS and had made the spot for 3 matches (six people) to attend the game-
But that was not only it- it got better... they gave us goodie bags with: a Hat, Sunflower seeds, Caramel Popcorn, Wristbands, Topps Baseball cards, Umps Care Eyeblack stickers, $10 cash to spend and a Game Ball handed to each of us by the Umpires we met before the game. Then we walked out onto the warning track below the Green Monster while the Yankee players were warming up on the field - it was a total goosebumps moment-!
We had been met at the gate by Kensha Dorneval-Grandoit from the Red Sox and she made us all feel very welcome and had introduced us to the Umpires as she showed us around (she did a marvelous job-!)
We met Umpires: DJ Reyburn and Paul Nauert. Both are great guys with tons of information and we hit them with all the questions we had been thinking about- being decisive, knowing what you want as soon as you see a menu- being able to live with decisions- coping with self doubt- going to umpire school - spending time reviewing tough calls on video- and the benefits of using your keeping your brain sharp. They both enjoyed our questions and were super friendly and cool.
My Littlle Brother had never been to a game and he said "I feel so 'extra'-!" We had a great day and the Red Sox won- which just made it awesome.
We really appreciate the opportunity can attest to the fact that 'Umps Care'
The communication was very good leading up to the event and Umps Care gave us plenty of details and had emailed a very well thought out list of questions and answers - good job guys_
Thanks again- I hope you are able to continue doing this- it is making an enormous impact and by extension, helping to mold our future in a very positive direction.
Umpscare contacted our mentoring organization to invite several of our youth to a VIP experience with our local MiLB team. We were hosted by the umpires who were very personable and friendly with our youth - none of which had ever been to a baseball game! Those youth that attended were able to have a behind the scenes peek at the ball field and left with a great bag of gifts to remember their visit. Umpscare helped us by providing an experience for one of our mentoring matches to share - this helps our clients build affiliation with our agency and encourages mentors to see the youth they're mentoring more frequently. The staff from Umpscare was professional and easy to communicate with and we're appreciative that they asked us to participate in this experience.
I have photographed two events for Umps Care and I’m very impressed with their mission and their actions. The effect that they have on the children who they visit in the hospitals is very positive. They brighten the day of those kids and it is very touching to witness. The Umps are great !
Long Ball players and coaches participated in Umps Care Charities an the coaches were blown away because they had never seen the inside of the Bulls stadium. Two of the players who never considered umpire as a career was very intrigued. This was our second time participating and the two coaches asked if they can go again next year. Of course that won't happen because we have so many more coaches and players to chose from. I didn't go and so unfortunately I don't have any pictures.
Amy - on behalf of the Carolinas Metro Reds, Coach Madden and Coach Davis, and our players/families, we wanted to thank you and UMPS Care Charities (and the Charlotte Knights) for a fantastic night at the ballpark last night….. It was a truly special experience that we will all remember and cherish for a long time… special shoutout to your Umpire crew of Alex Tosi, Ryan Wills, and Skyler Shown; they were (as you probably expected and get tired of hearing) really gracious, insightful, and engaging (they obviously have an important and difficult job, but they were totally focused on our experience during the time we spent with them from the time we met them up nearly until game time)……. attached via this DropBox link are some photos and short video clips (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/qp324gh9h3guhjt/AAA6RV1WMDEJGj1bi8h-2eDJa?dl=0 ) and attached below are a few of our personal favorites …….. in addition to hanging out with Alex, Ryan, and Skyler, our players got to take a few cuts in the batting cage, put the bases in place, shout out ‘Play Ball’ just after the National Anthem, and even met Tim Tebow! (we all did some serious consumption at the concession stand also!)…..
a serious congratulations to Umps Care Charities for your work in seeding into the community (a real tribute to the organization and all the umpires that toil tirelessly in support of the great game of baseball); this was really a cool event and should be widely known and publicly known and acknowledged. …….. thanks again Amy, and let us know if we can provide you and the Umps Care Charities organization any more information/feedback…...
Alan Barnes
Through my involvement as a big brother in the "Big Brothers Big Sisters" program, I recently had the pleasure of attending a Cleveland Indians game with my little brother. We got to walk down to the field before the game started and meet with the umpires - what a cool experience! There's so much we didn't know about what it takes to be an umpire in the major leagues. Special thanks to umpire Roberto Ortiz for taking the time to welcome us! Big thank you to UmpsCare for setting up the event - my little and I immensely enjoyed it!
UMPS Cares provided a special experience for three different HopeKids Kansas City families this baseball season! It has meant so much for our organization to be able to work with UMPS Cares and send our families to the games where they can make special memories together that will last them a lifetime! UMPS Cares has truly been amazing to work with and we are so thankful for our partnership with them and the Kansas City Royals!!
For the past 5 years, we have teamed up with UmpsCare to invite them to our hometown in Toronto, Canada for a visit at the hospital for Sick Kids. We are incredibly grateful for the work that this charity puts in every year to bring big smiles and joy to the children of our city. There selfless acts of charity do not go unnoticed by the hospital staff and parents of these children and we are very honored to work with such an incredible group of people!
Every step of the way with Umps Care Charities is as Professional organization as you'll get. Ultimately I was a former professional umpire in Triple-A baseball & flew home for a family emergency. The MLB umpires that are affiliated with Umps Care Charities came to my family's aid when my wife & I experienced a traumatic c-section for our twin daughters who arrived 8 weeks early. Fearing the unknown, my phone was flooded with outpouring love and support from the SAME people who are a HUGE part of this charity. Both daughters hanging on for dear life with their bodies covered in needles and tubes is completely disheartening. You feel hopeless and you don't know what to do or what is going to happen.
Each day I was home for the next 4 weeks, I did not go a hour or a day without people from this organization calling or emailing me. It's their love and their prayers that we were so thankful when our first daughter was able to go home, but the other was still fighting for life. Still, in their busy schedules with games and travel - the calls CONTINUED to pour in! Soon after, we would receive checks in the mail to help offset the cost of my lost wages in umpiring to help pay our bills. We could NOT have done this without the help of Umps Care.
For this, we are for FOREVER thankful & blessed that we have 2 HEALTHY, ATHLETIC and Honor Roll students entering high school. It was our promise that we would make an annual donation to help Umps Care Charities.
It is my humble and distinct honor to serve as an active Board Member. Without Umps Care Charities and the people that make it successful, we may not have been in the position we are in now. We will ALWAYS be an Umps Care Charities family & serve them to our fullest.
Thank you for your time in reading my post. God Bless! - Scott Kennedy (Board of Director)
A BIG shout out to UMPS CARE CHARITIES for providing such an awesome experience for our matches. We are so grateful to be included!
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Decatur County
Taking part in the Umps Care Blue for Kids Hospital visits is gratifying on many levels. The Build-a-Bear workshop let’s the children pick out & dress a new cuddly friend! Some of these very ill children haven’t had much of a reason to smile lately. Seeing these children happy & not thinking about their illness for a few moments is worth more than words can express.
Just as important is seeing how happy the parents are when they see the smile on their child’s face. Having an ill child is as tough on the parents as it is on the child themselves.
The Umps Care Blue for Kids Program helps families dealing with some terrible situations forget about their problems for at least a few hours!
What an excellent example of giving back. This charity not about those involved but is focused on the children and young adults that might not be at the most fun times of thier lives. Just a few minutes a laughter can change a bad circumstance into a day of joy.
Our Bigs and Littles had the time of their lives getting a behind the scenes, exclusive experience with Umps Care Charities. In addition to the once-in-a-lifetime experience, the admin team was super easy to work with and so helpful answering questions!
These guys really made an impact and put a smile on the faces of four kids who experienced severe trauma in their life. The kids still talk about. They even looked for them in the stands when they took the field. We are very grateful for the impact of Umpcares
As a non-profit ourselves, working with Umps Care was an excellent experience. We were able to partner up as a Canadian organization, and they provided children and youth that we work with unforgettable experiences. The feedback we received for the whole process was excellent! The communication between us was always very open and we were both there for the same end goal; to change a child's perspective!
I have been a volunteer for UMPS CARE Charities since 2009 and have never once regretted putting in the time and volunteer hours for them. The work the umpires do in children's hospitals, with at-risk kids and kids waiting for adoption, and their other efforts, is something I'm proud to support behind the scenes.
I've attended a few of their events, and the smiles on the faces of the kids makes it all worthwhile. But even bigger are the smiles on the faces of the umpires. You realize seeing them in action how much they love doing this, how much they love participating in the charity, and how much they love and appreciate the opportunity to give back.
UMPS CARE Charities makes it easy to want to volunteer for them, and the people involved make it easy to want to continue. They're professional, intelligent, creative, and very welcoming. I always feel like my ideas are valued and listened to, and always feel like my contributions are worthwhile. I can't imagine NOT volunteering for this amazing organization.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee would like to thank UMPS Care Charities and BLUE Crew Ticket program for the amazing experiences they have provided our Bigs and Littles! The opportunity to share with our young people the behind the scenes of what it takes to be a professional umpire with a meet and greet changes the perspective of playing baseball at Miller Park. It is a true pleasure working with the organization who make this experience a homerun. Thank you for all you do and we look forward to the 2018 season!
USO San Diego cannot say enough about the great work that Umps Care Charities is doing for our youth. This past summer Umps Cares Charities partnered with us here at USO San Diego providing a once in a lifetime opportunity to military family who absolutely loves baseball. The family was treated to snacks in the ballpark, admission to a Padres game and the best part they were invited onto the field to meet the Umpires of the day's game; they asked questions and took photos. The family had an absolutely amazing time and the found the experience to be incredible. Without Umps Cares this opportunity would not have happened and we received great feedback that the family simply had the greatest day ever.
Thank you Umps Cares Charities Inc for always putting a smile on the faces of families who may need it the most.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona has have the privilege of working with UMPS Care Charities for a few years now, and have nothing but great things to say about it. We have been actively involved in their BLUE Crew Ticket program, which allows a once in a lifetime experience for our Bigs and their Littles to meet professional umpires on the field, take pictures, and attend the game. Not only has it been so easy and wonderful to work with the UMPS Care team, but their hard work in organizing these opportunities has clearly paid off judging by the tremendous feedback we receive from those who attend. Thanks for everything you have done for us!!
I am with CPS and I was able to take a few of my kids on my caseload to this event. They had a blast. We got to do so many things that most people never get to do in their lifetime. The umpires were very kind and we enjoyed talking to them. I am grateful that my kids were able to take advantage of this opportunity and I am grateful that I was able to have this amazing experience as well.
Umps Care Charities has been the most wonderful organization to work with, and I must sing their praises. I am a Program Manager at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bay Area, and the game day experiences our youth (and their mentors) have had because of Umps Care Charities is immeasurable. Whether at an Oakland A's game, or an SF Giants game, our kids have been treated with cool swag, fun on the field experiences, and of course, getting to watch a baseball game--all for free. These events become special memories for our mentees/mentors, and everyone that attends always shares what a fun-filled day they have had. Not to mention, coordinating these events with our Umps Care Charities coordinator (Jenn) has been a breeze. She is wonderful, and I truly enjoy working with her. We, as an agency, couldn't be more appreciative of the work this organization does to make the lives of our youth better---so THANK YOU UMPS CARE CHARITIES!
UMPS Care Charities is an outstanding community partner. As a Wendy's Wonderful Kids Recruiter in the Denver Metro Area our organization has taken over 20 youth to the ROCKIES game. The kids are so excited to go on the field, meet the UMPS and receive a bag of goodies with baseball memorabilia. There are many times when the kids will say, "remember when we went to the baseball game". I know these memories are cherished as a special time among chaos they experience in their day to day lives. Thank YOU!!
As Special Services Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh I can say it has been a pleasure to work with the Umps Care Charities year in and year out as they provide Bigs and Littles with unique experiences that will be remembered for a lifetime.
Our mentoring matches have greatly enjoyed the Blue Crew experiences which include an opportunity to get a behind the scenes view of PNC Park as they make their way out onto the playing field to meet with the umpires who will be working the game. Each of the umpires that participate greet each match and eagerly share not only some of their expertise but show genuine interest and concern for the youth, asking them an as many questions as they themselves receive. In addition to the personal attention, each of the matches receive a gift of a baseball, get a photo taken with the umps and in addition to tickets to watch the game - they also receive an awesome goody bag of baseball snacks.
All of this adds up to an experience that makes each of our Littles (and their Bigs) feel special - and that is an immeasurable gift to share. BBBS of Greater Pittsburgh was one of the original charity partners to benefit from Umps Care Charities and I can say that many, many matches have been lucky enough to add this experience to their bucket list...and each I can say have walked away with a great memory and a greater appreciation for baseball and the umpires who play such an important role.
We greatly appreciate all the great work done by the folks at Umps Care Charities!
My name is Edna Green. I am a Wendy’s Wonderful Kids Recruiter in St. Louis, MO, and I am excited when my clients who are placed in pre-adoptive homes are given the opportunity to attend a once in a lifetime baseball experience. I can honestly report that after each family has attended a game they share pictures, talk about the game, and gush about how wonderful the experience was. They especially love meeting an umpire from a major league baseball team! I am so grateful for the opportunities that UMPS CARE provides to children!
We LOVE working with UMPS Care Charities! Most Valuable Kids of Greater Cincinnati is blessed to have a partnership with such an amazing organization! Their program allows us to reward underserved kids with an experience of a lifetime! I can rave about their program but from the words of one of our 12 year old recipients who participated with his family, "It's was the best day of my life!" Taking the kids from a neighborhood filled with poverty and exposing them to the UMPS fabulous experience fills kids with so much self-worth!
My name is Wendy Farmer, and I work for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Kansas City. Over the last several years, Umps Care has provided a one-of-a-kind opportunity for children in our program to explore Kauffman Stadium with their mentors. The in-depth tours and personal attention from the umpires has always been impressive to our clients, and they all enjoy sticking around afterwards for the game. We truly appreciate this unique non-profit and the opportunities it allows!
My name is Ronald Mumford and I am a Wendy's Wonderful Kids Adoptions Recruiter. I have been participating in this wonderful program with my clients since it's inception. Many of our clients in South Florida have never been to the ballpark. The experience is extraordinary. The children are excited and many have requested to attend games regularly. The umpires have always been engaging and first class to the children we serve. One young man in particular told me he didn't like baseball and he didn't want to go. I coaxed him and finally he relented. I am pleased to say that because of his experience with Umps Care Charities he attends games regularly and began playing baseball on the Optimist team in his neighborhood.