On June 27, Arizona Diamondbacks pitchers Brandon Pfaadt and Ryne Nelson took part in a special event serving lunch to veterans at MANA House in Phoenix. This initiative highlights the Diamondbacks’ dedication to community involvement alongside their focus on baseball, emphasizing their commitment to honoring veterans through direct service.
Collaboration with Community Partners to Aid Veterans
The event was conducted in partnership with NuVision Auto Glass and the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation, reflecting a shared commitment to veteran support. MANA House, formerly known as Madison Street Veterans Association, serves as a key resource in Phoenix by providing peer support to homeless and formerly homeless veterans. Through its programs, MANA House helps veterans rebuild their lives by offering essential services and a supportive environment.
Serving Nourishment and Respect Through the Home Plate Kitchen
Pfaadt and Nelson personally distributed hot meals prepared by Streets of New York at 11:00 a.m., delivered via the Diamondbacks Home Plate Kitchen. This kitchen was established thanks to a grant from the Ken Kendrick Grand Slam Award, symbolizing the team’s sustained efforts in community outreach. Beyond providing food, the meal service was an expression of gratitude and acknowledgment of veterans’ sacrifices.
NuVision Auto Glass and the Diamondbacks Foundation strive to serve our veterans who are most in-need and show support and appreciation for the sacrifices they made for our country,
—Team statement
Expanding Impact Through “Hits for Heroes” Program
Alongside serving meals, the Diamondbacks have launched the Hits for Heroes initiative, pledging to donate $20 for every hit recorded by their players during the season. This program is designed to fund healthcare, treatment, and rehabilitation projects for veterans and their families, further demonstrating the organization’s ongoing investment in veterans’ wellbeing.
Emerging Talent Fostering Leadership on and off the Field
Brandon Pfaadt and Ryne Nelson, both young pitchers on the Diamondbacks roster, have recently increased their roles on the team. Nelson has established himself as a dependable bullpen pitcher, maintaining a 3.71 ERA in 17 appearances this season. Pfaadt has contributed significantly by pitching the third-highest number of innings for the team. Their growing prominence on the field is matched by their dedication to giving back to the community, showing leadership beyond baseball performance.
Lasting Contributions to Veteran Support and Community Healing
The Diamondbacks’ outreach, highlighted by Pfaadt and Nelson’s participation, illustrates the team’s broader mission to provide meaningful support to veterans. Their involvement goes beyond immediate aid, instilling hope and resilience in those who have endured hardships. By continuing such efforts, the team reinforces the powerful role sports organizations can have in strengthening communities and honoring those who have served the nation.
In a world often driven by competitive pressure, the Diamondbacks remind us that compassion and community engagement can create profound, lasting change. As these players serve veterans meals, they also foster a deeper sense of belonging and appreciation for the sacrifices made by Phoenix’s veterans and those beyond.