Evening at the Ballpark a 'home run for youth in Lee County'

FORT MYERS, Fla. - EntSun -- Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County's 2025 Evening at the Ballpark attracted 220 supporters and raised a record $150,000 to support club program and members.

Held March 13 at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers, Evening at the Ballpark featured baseball-themed activities, games, appetizers and drinks on the concourse at Fenway South. Then, guests walked inside the stadium along the warning track, where Boston Red Sox players Justin Slaten, Zack Kelly, Seby Zavala and Jarren Duran signed autographs. Following a buffet dinner and silent auction of sports memorabilia, the players participated in a lively conversation exploring life as a professional athlete.

Sitting under the shadows of the Green Monster, guests learned how Boys & Girls Clubs have evolved over the years to become springboards for the next generation of leaders.

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"We're not just providing after-school or summer programs," said Denise Gergley, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County. "We are providing a pathway to the future, giving our youth the tools and resources they need to unlock their full potential and to build a plan for their future."

Ryan Mejias, a Bonita Springs High School student who recently was named Lee County's 2025 Youth of the Year, addressed guests to explain how he's handled setbacks and moments of doubt by building on a foundation, brick by brick, using skills he learned through his club to become a leader among his peers.

"Leadership isn't about power, but about empowering others," Mejias said. "It's about creating a healthy environment where everyone feels seen, heard and valued."

Following Mejias' speech, which received a standing ovation, emcee Kellie Burns and auctioneer Jay Zeager sold nearly a dozen one-of-a-kind packages and led attendees through a rousing "Call to Heart" showing the moment when generosity meets impact.

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"This event was a home run for youth in Lee County," Gergley said after the event. "Our business sponsors and attendees are making it possible for children and teens to participate in potentially life-altering programs that set them up for success throughout their lives."

Evening at the Ballpark's Hall of Fame Title Sponsor was B&I Contractors. VIP sponsors included Pacific Peak, Seagate Development Group and Frank R. Jenkins Custom Homes. Grand Slam Sponsors were CVS Health and Storm Smart. Home Run Sponsors included Alessio Companies, Allyn International, Gulf Coast Business Bank, Home-Tech and The Community Foundation. Table Sponsors were the Boston Red Sox, Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, Jaguar Land Rover Fort Myers, LMCU, Suncoast Credit Union and The Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers.