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Robinson Cano is a second baseman for the Seattle Mariners. He signed a ten-year contract in 2013 and has made All-Star appearances both in the US and Japan. Those are great achievements for any player, but Cano doesn’t stop there.
Originally from the Dominican Republic, Cano grew up with a passion for baseball. While many dream of becoming a famous athlete as a way out of a small town, Cano also genuinely loves the game. The opportunity with the Mariners has given him the chance to give back to the community – both the one he is from and the local Seattle area. As part of his desire to help others, Cano founded the RC22 Foundation to positively impact the lives of underserved kids and their communities.
Major League Baseball also supports local communities and creates programs to generate interest in baseball, as well as teach values like teamwork to kids in inner cities. In its 24th season, MLB’s Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities League (R.B.I) teamed up again with the Rainier Vista Boys & Girls Club. Kids from elementary through high school get a chance to participate in an organized and safe athletic program and even get to meet their heroes!
Through his partnership with Sparkling Ice, Cano hosted this year’s R.B.I. Summer Baseball Clinic. He did drills with the kids, handed out Mariners tickets and signed memorabilia. Along with Sparkling Ice, Cano continues to support local charities and organizations year-round.
In a time when the news isn’t always so positive, it’s nice to be able to talk about someone reaching down and giving a hand up to kids who need it. Good luck next season, RC!
If you’d like to get involved with the RBI program, contact the Rainier Vista Boys & Girls Club at (206) 436-1903.
Photo Credits:
Colton Kline of Smilow Rainier Vista Boys & Girls Club