Kernels help local organizations with performance on the field

The Cedar Rapids Kernels success on the ballfield this season has helped four charitable organizations off the field.

Thanks to the generous support of CarePro Health Services, AEGON, Millhiser Smith West Bend Insurance, and 7G Distributing, the Kernels are able to hold four promotions throughout the season that supports area charities.

Each business pledged to donate money ranging from $5-$25 every time the Kernels hit a home run, steal a base, score a run, or strike out an opposing hitter.

So far, the Kernels have been able to raise a combined $24,775 for the four charitable groups.

The breakdown of this year's promotions is as follows:

"Plating for Plates:" Every time the Kernels score a run, CarePro Health Services gives $5 to Horizon's Meals on Wheels. Cedar Rapids has scored 466 times in 2011, totaling $2,330.

"K's for Kids:" When a Kernels pitcher strikes out an opposing hitter, AEGON pledges $25 to Kids First. With 814 K's this year, Kernels pitchers have raised $20,350.

"Kernels Stolen Bases:" If a Kernels player swipes a bag at Perfect Game Field, Millhiser Smith West Bend Insurance makes a $25 contribution to Camp Courageous. Cedar Rapids has stolen 55 bases at home this season, which equates to $1,375 for Camp Courageous.

"Home Runs for Heroes:" 7G Distributing makes a $20 donation to the Folds of Honor Foundation any time a Kernels player hits a home run at Perfect Game Field. The Kernels have belted 36 homers at home, meaning $720 has gone to Folds of Honor.

Among current Kernels players, pitcher A.J. Schugel has helped raise the most money with his statistics on the field. His 80 strikeouts have produced $2,000 for Kid's First. Among position players, outfielder Travis Witherspoon has produced the most money with his on-field performance. His 56 runs scored, five home runs at home, and 28 stolen bases at home equal $1,080 for the various charities.

With 24 games left in the 2011 campaign, there's still plenty of time for more funds to be raised for these philanthropic organizations.

Tickets for all Kernel home games are available on-line at www.kernels.com; in person at the Kernels Ticket Office, or by calling 896-7560 during Ticket Office Hours. The Kernels Ticket Office is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.