Number of Participants: 26
Hours Donated: 6
Value of Time Served: $1,318
Event Type: Children & Youth
Activity: Lacrosse
School: Plainview-Old Bethpage/Jfk High School
Date: April 21, 2025
Location:
Plainview Old Bethpage John F Kennedy High School
Kennedy Drive, Plainview
NY
About:
For the Plainview-Old Bethpage Varsity Baseball team, this season was about more than just competition—it was about compassion, connection, and creating meaningful change.
Coach John Givy introduced a powerful initiative: the Autism Awareness Game. Inspired by his own experience as a student-athlete in Plainview where he once participated in a similar event, he was determined to pass that legacy forward.
“I remembered what it felt like to be part of something bigger than the game,” Coach Givy shared. “I wanted my players to learn about autism, understand the importance of inclusion, and see how sports can be a platform for positive change.”
The team eagerly embraced the mission. Players helped raise funds and awareness by selling T-shirts, with proceeds going to a local autism awareness organization. Their commitment extended beyond the game day, as they promoted the cause throughout April, which is National Autism Awareness Month.
In addition to autism awareness, the team remains dedicated to supporting other important causes. Last year, they honored the memory of local hero Jonathan Diller and showed their appreciation for police officers—demonstrating that these student-athletes are growing not only as players but also as compassionate community leaders.
Now in its 9th year, the Autism Awareness Game continues to be a powerful tradition, another remarkable day dedicated to raising awareness for autism and supporting everyone impacted by it each and every day.
