Deloitte, Loons Teaming up on "Ks for Kids" Fundraiser

This season, Deloitte LLP and the Great Lakes Loons will bring the heat in a unique effort to meet the needs of at-risk children in our community.

Deloitte and the Loons will hold a season-long "Ks for Kids" fundraiser that will contribute $5 for every strikeout by a Loons pitcher to five local agencies working with area children.

With Loons pitchers notching 1,120 strikeouts last year, the program should raise more than $5,000 on behalf of Girls on the Run, Junior Achievement of Central Michigan, Boy Scouts of America (Lake Huron Council), Shelter House and West Midland Family Center.

Details on Ks for Kids will be announced during a 5:30 p.m. reception on Monday, March 30, at Dow Diamond. Loons President and General Manager Paul Barbeau will introduce the program along with Don Riegger, Managing Partner of Deloitte's Midland office.

"At the end of the year it's the children who will be the star of the game," said Riegger. "We will have not only raised significant funds, but we will have drawn attention to the fact that the well being of children in this area is more of an issue than what people may think, particularly in today's economy."

"This effort brings baseball, business and the needs of the community all in one place in order to make an impact," Barbeau said. "The Great Lakes Loons are very proud to help facilitate a unique way to address to a critical need."

Riegger also said Deloitte is also using the program as a way to encourage more of its local employees to volunteer with the five agencies.

"Funds are important, but non-profits need our time and our talents, too," Riegger said. "Deloitte is involved at some level with these agencies, and this event will help us channel even more people power their way."

The Great Lakes Loons are the third-year Single-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers and members of the Midwest League. Tickets for the 2009 season are now on sale. For more information about the Loons, visit Loons.com.