IAFF MDA SOFTBALL
CHAMPIONSHIP
THE IAFF MDA CHAMPIONSHIP
In September, over one hundred teams of firefighters and paramedics come together from across North America to play softball and raise money to fight neuromuscular diseases. It is the largest gathering of firefighters and paramedics outside of the International's Biennial Convention. Each year this tournament is hosted by the Professional Fire Fighters and Paramedics of Prince Georges County, International Association Of Firefighters Local 1619.
Over the years this tournament has become an institution for our union and for MDA. Besides the fun, sport, and camaraderie that takes place each year as teams of fire fighters from across the U.S. and Canada gather in Watkins Park for competitive softball, this tournament continues to provide substantial support for MDA and Jerry's Kids.
Over the years the MDA Softball Tournament and related functions have allowed the Prince George's County Professional Firefighters to donate over $2 million dollars to Jerry's Kids. As far as can be documented, we are the first local to be able to make that claim.
THE IAFF MDA SOFTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP IS A 501 C 3 Charitable Orginization
ABOUT
Mattie J.T. Stepanek was one of us...
Mattie J.T. Stepanek, a well-respected poet and peace activist, lived a life that was brief in length but powerfully blessed with depth. Born on July 17, 1990, Mattie began creating and sharingHeartsongs at the young age of 3. He explained that Heartsongs are “gifts that reflect each person’s unique reason for being.”
Mattie ultimately published six collections of his Heartsongs poetry books and one collection of Just Peace essays and e-mail correspondence between Mattie and Former President Jimmy Carter. All seven of Mattie’s books became New York Times Bestsellers and touched millions of lives around the world.
He died on June 22, 2004 due to complications of Dysautonomic Mitochondrial Myopathy.
Taken from http://www.mattieonline.com/. Please visit for more information on this wonderful ambassador