RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) Austin, a MLB-affiliated program, held its annual benefit, Now at Bat, January 29 at the JW Marriott. The event supports RBI Austin’s mission to engage and develop inner-city youth through baseball, softball, and mentoring, empowering them to become leaders and agents of change in their communities. More than $1.15 million was raised to support local programming.
The evening’s line-up included a cocktail reception and silent and live auctions, as well as dinner and an inspirational program featuring special guest speaker Steve Sarkisian, head football coach at the University of Texas.
In addition to MLB guests and Austin community leaders, notable attendees included Taylor Jungmann, Sean Gallagher, Mark Teixeira, Brandon Puffer, Brett Baty, Brandon Belt, Wade Bowen, Hunter Feduccia, Matt Kata, Drew Stuffs, Bud Norris, Chad Qualls, Jim Schlossnagle, and Will Matthews.
Auction highlights included exotic getaways, sports events, and fashion and jewelry, featuring cowboy boots and pieces from Kendra Scott. A “Double Play Raffle” offered a winning combination of entertainment and luxury, including prime seating at a Houston Astros game and a gift certificate from Calvin’s Fine Jewelry.
Founder and Executive Director Matt Price said, “We look forward to this event every year, and we are grateful for the individuals and organizations who continue to invest their time and resources into our 1,706 RBI Austin kids and who ultimately help create futures that wouldn’t otherwise exist.”
The evening concluded with an invitation-only VIP party.
RBI Austin began in 2009 as an opportunity to provide Christian-based mentoring through affordable baseball and softball programs for underserved youth in Austin, Texas.
For more information, visit www.rbiaustin.org.
