On August 22nd, on Portland’s very own Hadlock field, NNEPRA staff, along with regional Amtrak management and crew members, teamed up to give back to the kids and hosted this year’s PLAY BALL event, with the help of the Red Sox Foundation.

The Red Sox Foundation is the official charity of the Boston Red Sox. Harnessing the power of New England’s favorite baseball team to make a difference in the lives of youth, Veterans, families, and underprivileged communities.

What is PLAY BALL? A FREE introductory baseball/softball clinic for youth ages 5-12 with any skill range. Youth in attendance participate in fun and engaging baseball activities through station-based drills. The best part is, no personal equipment is necessary. Keeping this event accessible for all attendees.

The event was supported by Portland’s own baseball pros – The Portland Sea Dogs. Each station-based drill featured a unique set of skills kids can bring into their own game as they dream and work to become the next big name in MLB history.

NNEPRA and our regional Amtrak crew members were extremely grateful for the opportunity to jump on the field and give back to our local community. Anticipating many kids may now have a new response to the age-old question – What do you want to be when you grow up?