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Yankees Announce Return of HOPE Week, Honoring Local Heroes
The New York Yankees have announced the return of HOPE Week (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) for its 16th year in 2025, continuing the teams tradition of recognizing individuals and organizations making a positive impact in their communities.
This year marks the 12th time the Yankees minor league affiliates in the U.S. and the Dominican Republic will hold their own HOPE Weeks, extending the programs reach to more communities. The initiative, which highlights five inspiring stories over a weeklong period, will once again include outreach efforts beyond Yankee Stadium, allowing players, coaches, and staff to engage directly with honorees.
As part of their spring training activities in Florida, the Yankees will honor two local organizations involved in hurricane relief efforts following the devastation of Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024.
On March 3, Michelle Baldwin, Chairperson of Oldsmar Cares, will be recognized for her leadership in providing food, clothing, and emergency assistance to those affected by the hurricanes. The nonprofit, founded in 1997, operates entirely through volunteers and serves Oldsmar, Fla., and surrounding areas. Baldwin and other members of Oldsmar Cares will be honored in a pregame ceremony on Monday, March 3, before the Yankees game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at George M. Steinbrenner Field.
On Wednesday, March 19, the Yankees will recognize Good Neighbors, a nonprofit co-founded by Heather Brooks that works to provide food and essential supplies to vulnerable communities. In response to the 2024 hurricanes, the organization donated over 1,100 pounds of food to Isaiah Village, Inc., ran a hurricane relief fund, and set up a free farmers market in Clearwater, Fla. Brooks and members of Good Neighbors will be honored in a pregame ceremony before the Yankees game against the Atlanta Braves.
Since its inception, HOPE Week has been rooted in the belief that small acts of kindness can inspire greater change. The Yankees involve their entire organization — players, coaches, and front office staff — to send the message that everyone has the ability to make a difference. The initiative also seeks to raise awareness and support for nonprofits that often struggle with funding and visibility.
For their continued commitment to service, the Yankees have been honored each year since 2010 with the Presidents Volunteer Service Award, a national recognition presented by AmeriCorps.
Fans can learn more about HOPE Week and nominate individuals or organizations for future recognition at www.hopeweek.com.
