DOWNEY – More than $2,500 was raised at the first annual Downey TLC Softball Tournament held last Saturday at Downey Adult School, with proceeds benefiting the TLC Family Resource Center.

Teams from Rotary Club of Downey, Downey Kiwanis, and Downey and Warren high schools participated in the tournament.

About 100 people were in attendance, said Fernando Vasquez, a Kiwanis club member and organizer of the event.

Nick Adams, owner of the local Philly’s Best, donated food for the tournament. Ed Vasquez with the Central Basin Municipal Water District provided water.

Insurance and umpires were provided by Stonewood Center, and use of the softball fields were provided by Roger Brossmer, councilman and principal of Downey Adult School.

The TLC Center helps needy children of the Downey Unified School District by providing reading glasses, food, counseling, and more. As a non-profit organization, they rely on donations, grants and fundraisers to continue operations.

Almost 2,000 students have been referred to TLC for this school year alone, said Luz Perez, program coordinator at TLC.

“When students are referred to TLC for support…it becomes evident to us why these students are struggling at school, and they are screaming for help,” Perez said. “This past Saturday, it was clear that their cry for help is being heard throughout the community.”

Perez said the idea for a fundraiser arose when she and Dr. Robert Jagielski, director of pupil services for DUSD, spoke to Downey Kiwanis about TLC’s efforts.

“The members took it upon themselves to find a way to ensure that the TLC Center continue this important work,” Perez said.

Organizers said they hope the softball tournament becomes an annual tradition.

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Published: June 5, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 7