A fundraising event will be held this month by the St. Joseph Youth Sports Foundation as it seeks to raise $2 million for a new youth sports complex.
Group President Nicole Schmitt tells us they’re building the complex on 40-acres at Maiden Lane and Hollywood Road in St. Joseph Township.
“That includes Rocket Football, flag football, baseball and softball, along with a Miracle League field,” Schmitt said.
The initial goal for the sports complex is $2 million, just to break ground on the football field and trails. However, the total goal is about $8 million for all of the amenities that will include a playground, a splash pad, and batting cages.
Schmitt says the foundation is working with a fundraising firm, and set for October 21 is its first fundraising event, to be held at North Pier Brewing.
“It’s kind of a two part thing. Earlier in the day, starting at 1 p.m. we’ll have a cornhole tournament, and then starting at 4 p.m. we’re going to do a tailgate party at North Pier for the Michigan-Michigan State game.”
The cornhole tournament will feature both adult and youth teams. The entry fee for adult teams will be $50, and the fee for youth teams will be $25.
Admission to the tailgate party will be $40. You can register for either event at the St. Joseph Youth Sports Foundation website.
Schmitt notes the fundraising effort has already attracted some big community support with a $150,000 donation from Connie Hanson and a $100,000 donation from Deb and Jay Craig. It’s also received a $115,000 donation from an anonymous donor.
The hope is to break ground on the complex in the spring.
