Learning, growing with Jays Care Foundation training
Ehrlo Sport Venture’s recent collaboration with the Jays Care Foundation and baseball leagues from across Canada is strengthening relationships and evolving program development.
The Sport Venture Baseball Rookie League (EBRL) was one of just 12 programs selected from across the country to participate in the Jays Care Foundation’s Indigenous Rookie League (IRL) training earlier this spring.
Chase Pelletier, sports league coordinator, travelled to Toronto in April to take part in the two-day training session hosted by the Jays Care Foundation, a charitable arm of the Toronto Blue Jays.
“Jays Care is really focused on helping the leagues prepare for their seasons and providing them with highly-quality training that is focused on sport-forward development rather than competitiveness in sports,” explained Chase.
While this marks Chase’s second time participating in the training, he said each year brings fresh perspectives and meaningful connections.
A notable take-away from this year’s training was the avenues of appreciation and recognition extended by leagues to their volunteers.
“A highlight for me was the information sharing,” said Chase. “It was interesting to hear how leagues show appreciation to their volunteers. There were some really cool gifts that were provided to them, with one league making personalized bobbleheads of each coach.”
The IRL training gave Chase the opportunity to deepen his knowledge in areas such as coach development, volunteer recruitment and retention, and the broader values that guide the Jays Care Foundation’s work. It also served as a meaningful chance to connect with the people at Jays Care and peers from across the country, including fellow Saskatchewan leagues from Fort Qu’Appelle and Cowessess First Nation.
“This experience helps strengthen the relationship between Sport Venture and Jays Care Foundation because we’re meeting and interacting with folks directly. We can better convey our program, and we can show them what we’re doing in the community – how we do it and why we do it,” said Gloria Patrick, manager of Sport Venture. “I think it’s really beneficial in being able to build a stronger, deeper connection.”
The relationship between Sport Venture and Jays Care is a special one with shared goals, values, and visions. Both organizations are working to positively contribute to the lives of children and youth both on and off the diamond – creating better access to sport while promoting the healthy development of children through intergenerational connections and community collaboration.
The Jays Care Foundation has been a key sponsor and supporter of the EBRL since 2018, making significant and impactful contributions each year. We are excited to welcome the Jays Care Foundation to Regina during the week of May 18th to help with the league promotion and preparation. While details are still being finalized, staff are hopeful that Jays Care representatives will join them for school visits and that league coordinator training will be offered to staff ambassadors and volunteers.
Registration for the 2025 EBRL will open late May – early June. Stay tuned to ehrlo.com/sport-venture for coming details.