The Quad Cities River Bandits (Low A; Midwest League) donated $100,000 to Genesis Health System on Friday, continuing one of the more robust charitable efforts in Minor League Baseball.
The River Bandits have been known for years for their charitable work, as proceeds from amusements at Modern Woodmen Park help to raise money for charity. With their donation to Genesis Health System, the River Bandits provided all proceeds of tickets sold to the Genesis Kidz Koaster, along with a portion of proceeds from the ballpark’s Ferris wheel, Drop-N-Twist, spinning bumper cars, River Rocker, and kiddie train.
On Friday, River Bandits owner Dave Heller presented $100,000 to Genesis Health System. The donation will help support several programs, including the Genesis neonatal intensive care unit, the Genesis Flu-Free Quad-Cities program, the Camp Genesis program, and the Genesis Family Connects program. More from the Quad-City Times:
“There is nothing more important than the care and health of children,” Heller said. “We’ve made it our No. 1 charitable activity, and we’re so pleased that for the second year in a row we have been able to write a check for $100,000 to help make the Quad-Cities a healthier place.”
[Genesis Health System President and CEO Doug] Cropper said Genesis is proud of its long-term relationship with the River Bandits, which began decades ago but has accelerated since Heller purchased the team.
“The emphasis on children in the River Bandits’ gift is appreciated and makes a significant difference in our community,” Cropper said.
Heller said the donation to the neonatal intensive care unit hits home. Both of his sons were born in neonatal care units.
In 2017, the River Bandits were awarded both our Best Charity and Best Ballpark Improvement (Under $1M) awards after installing a double-decker carousel, the Gensis Kidz Koaster, Wind-Up, Double Play, and an oval-tracked kiddie train. Along with providing more amenities within Modern Woodmen Park, the installation of those amusements helped the River Bandits further their charitable efforts.
RELATED STORIES: River Bandits Donate $100,000 to Genesis Foundation; Best Ballpark Improvement (Under $1M): Modern Woodmen Park Amusements; 2017 Best Charity: Quad Cities River Bandits