For Immediate Release
Contact:
Jill Bucaro
Kickin’ it with Luke organizer
[email protected]
(937) 671-3306
Annual Kickball Tournament Fundraiser Set for September, Benefits Local Nonprofits
July 26, 2019 (Dayton, OH) — The third annual Kickin’ it with Luke kickball tournament fundraiser will take place September 21, 2019. The tournament will be held at Dayton Area Rugby Club Grounds, 620 Shiloh Rd, Dayton, OH 45415, and again benefit Brigid’s Path, a local nonprofit which provides inpatient medical care for drug-exposed newborns, non-judgmental support for mothers, and education services to improve family outcomes. In addition to Brigid’s Path, proceeds from this event will also be granted to the Dayton chapter of Families of Addicts (FOA) and HerStory. FOA’s mission is to educate, empower, and embrace families, friends and individuals struggling with addiction by providing support and promoting recovery. HerStory works to encourage and empower women to work towards and sustain long-term recovery. “We wanted to increase and diversify our impact this year. That is why we chose two additional charities that work directly with people suffering from addiction.” Jill Bucaro.
The annual tournament is held in memory of 29-year-old Lucas Stoddard, a Dayton native. Luke was the kind of person who made an impression on everyone he met. He had a zest for life, never met an adventure he didn’t pursue, and was always the life of the party. When Luke passed away in 2017 after a long struggle with addiction, the world lost a person whose personality, energy, and loving heart will be sorely missed.
“Addiction was just a tiny part of the life that Luke lived, and doesn’t define him or his legacy,” said Melanie Wagner, tournament organizer. “He always loved kids, and was perpetually the fun cousin, uncle, and life of the party. I know he would be proud to support all of this year’s organizations.”
Over 500 people attended the first two tournaments, raising nearly $10,000 in the first year and $15,000 in the second year. Teams of 10 or more can register at https://kickinitwithluke.com/. This year there are two brackets – both competitive and noncompetitive. Registration starts at 9 a.m. and games begin at 10 a.m. Spectators are invited to attend at no cost and participate in backyard games such as cornhole, giant Connect Four, and Kan Jam. There will also be raffle baskets with prizes and gift cards from local businesses.
All money raised will go to The Lucas Kincaid Stoddard Memorial Fund through the Dayton Foundation. 50% of those funds will be immediately gifted to Brigid’s Path, FOA, and HerStory in the form of a grant. A raffle will be held at the tournament and sponsorship opportunities are available; please contact Jill Bucaro at 937-671-3306 or email [email protected].
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