Over 4,300 attendees gather for a night of history, hope, and hometown pride
VERO BEACH, May 5, 2025 – On April 15, Jackie Robinson Day, communities across the country pause to honor the man who changed the face of baseball—and history. Here in Vero Beach, the celebration took center stage at Holman Stadium, where United Way of Indian River County, in partnership with Major League Baseball and the Jackie Robinson Training Complex, hosted the annual Jackie Robinson Celebration Game.
With over 4,300 tickets sold, the stadium was buzzing with energy and filled with families, baseball fans, and community members united by purpose and pride. This year’s game raised over $30,000 in support of United Way’s mission to strengthen Indian River County through programs focused on health, education, and financial stability.
“This was more than just a baseball game,” said Meredith Egan, CEO of United Way of Indian River County. “It was a celebration of community, history, and purpose. Honoring Jackie Robinson’s legacy while rallying support for local programs shows just how powerful we can be when we come together. Every dollar raised made the night a true home run for our community.”
The pre-game festivities included a photo booth by Treasure & Space Coast Radio, a KidZone sponsored by Kid City USA, and a spirited Little League parade, where young players marched in uniform to celebrate the future of the sport.
The Palm Beach Cardinals faced off against the Clearwater Threshers in a thrilling matchup under the lights, and the Cardinals ultimately claimed the win.
The evening also featured a moving dignitaries salute in recognition of the Indian River County Centennial, the National Anthem performed by Georgette and Ruby Trusty, and a ceremonial first pitch thrown by Jeanna Antinozzi, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Indian River County’s 2025 Youth of the Year.
Adding to the excitement, local donor Joe Semkow contributed three Savannah Banana’s baseball mitts, a bat, and a net, which were raffled off to a few lucky kids in the crowd.
Over 100 volunteers made the event possible—coordinating traffic, scanning tickets, and greeting guests—demonstrating the power of teamwork and dedication.
“This event is about honoring the past while building the future,” said Curtis Carpenter, United Way Board Member and Chair of the event. “Seeing the stadium full of families, fans, and future leaders proves that Vero Beach is ready to play ball and grow this tradition year after year.”
The Jackie Robinson Celebration Game is made possible thanks to the generous support of Presenting Sponsors Morgan Petersen Wealth Management – Merrill Lynch and Shambo, Schwibner, Schwartz Wealth Management Group – Merrill Lynch. United Way also thanks Home Run Sponsor Route 60 Hyundai, MVP Sponsor GHO Homes, KidZone Sponsor Kid City USA, and Triple Sponsor AYS Employee Leasing.
As the event continues to grow, organizers hope to expand the experience next year with more activities, deeper community engagement, and even greater impact.
For those who couldn’t attend, there are still plenty of ways to get involved. Visit UnitedWayIRC.org to learn more, make a donation, or discover how you can be part of United Way’s mission.
About United Way of Indian River County
United Way of Indian River County (UWIRC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every community member. United Way works with local programs to provide resources to individuals and families in crisis today while working year-round to improve community conditions and create lasting solutions. We are effectively building a strong foundation and improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. For more information about your local United Way, please call (772) 567-8900 or visit our website, UnitedWayIRC.org.
