Number of Participants: 15
Hours Donated: 10
Value of Time Served: $5,219
Event Type: Civic & Community
Activity: Softball
School: Sandwich High School
Date: April 17, 2026
Location:
Sandwich Middle High School
Quaker Meetinghouse Road, East Sandwich
MA
About:
The Sandwich Middle High School Varsity Softball Team united their school and community through a meaningful Autism Awareness and Inclusion Game, demonstrating the power of student-led leadership and purpose-driven athletics.
The initiative was led by sophomore Victoria Lott and senior captain Maddie Brown, who worked together to bring the event to life from concept to execution. Victoria’s personal connection to the cause—having a brother on the autism spectrum—fueled her passion to raise awareness, promote acceptance, and support families navigating similar experiences.
All 15 student-athletes on the roster played an active role in planning and organizing the event, showcasing true team-wide leadership. During the game, players wore autism awareness ribbons in their hair and on their gloves, creating a unified and highly visible message of support on the field.
The team partnered with the Sandwich Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC), which hosted an on-site table providing autism awareness ribbons, bracelets, and refreshments. The SEPAC also served as a valuable resource for families, offering information, guidance, and advocacy support throughout the event.
The impact extended far beyond the field. The game brought the community together, sparked meaningful conversations, and created a strong, visible show of support for individuals with autism and their families. In addition, funds raised during the event were donated to the Sandwich Middle High School Best Buddies Club, helping to further inclusion efforts within the school community.
Through their leadership, compassion, and commitment to service, the Sandwich Varsity Softball Team exemplified how student-athletes can use their platform to make a lasting difference.
