For more than two decades, the South Jersey Field of Dreams has been a home run for inclusion, offering kids and adults with disabilities a chance to step up to the plate and experience the joy of baseball. This isn't just a game—it's a community where everyone gets to run the bases, make friends, and feel the thrill of being part of a team.
The program serves roughly 300 participants from 13 towns across seven counties, all united by a love for the sport. Board member Jacob Hackett, who lives with cerebral palsy, knows firsthand the impact this field has had. The initiative was brought to life in 2003 thanks in part to his grandparents, and it's been a game-changer ever since.
"It means a great deal, and it always will," Hackett shares. "You want to create an inclusive environment, a networking space where kids can just be kids. If we've done that, then we've done our job."
At the heart of the Field of Dreams is a simple but powerful mission: to give everyone a chance to shine. Volunteers support players as they hit, run, and cheer alongside teammates, turning what might seem impossible into unforgettable moments. Board member John Glassey puts it perfectly: "They realized there was so much they could do—run, play ball, be part of a team, have people cheer for them. That's what this is all about. It gives them a chance to be a complete human being, not someone who has to sit on the sidelines."
Whether you're lacing up your cleats or cheering from the stands, this field proves that baseball is for everyone—and that every swing counts.
