2024 Philanthropist of the Year Finalists
JON GRAY
Jon Gray and his wife, Jacklyn, focus their philanthropic work on five key areas they call their “Fab 5 for Philanthropy.” These areas include their church, support for military personnel and families, animal rescue, the Birthday Party Project for children, and Mission Arlington's programs for underserved communities. In 2024, they have volunteered their time through hands-on activities, such as working out with military personnel and hosting birthday parties for children. They are also deeply involved in animal rescue, raising funds for organizations like Pawerful Rescue through events such as the Texas Rangers Pet Calendar and fostering animals themselves. Additionally, they support Mission Arlington’s free Christmas store by organizing toy drives and continue to show their commitment to supporting military families through programs like #MissionGrayWolf22, which hosts military families at Rangers games.
In the past year, Jon’s community involvement has been extensive. Notable contributions include a $100,000 donation to the Come and See Foundation, $100 per strikeout to Pawerful Rescue, a $10,000 donation to the Adaptive Training Foundation’s Battle Wagon project, and a $25,000 donation to the University of Oklahoma Baseball Program. Through #MissionGrayWolf22, Jon hosted military families at 10 home games and 4 road games, providing tickets, parking, food, and Q&A sessions. Jon and Jacklyn also donated 400 packages of M&M's to the USO and 400 stuffed animals to the Arlington Police Department. Their work with Mission Arlington continued with their Christmas toy drive, and they contributed to the Birthday Party Project through the Texas Rangers Player’s Basket Auction. In addition, they fostered four kittens for the North Richardson Humane Society. Looking ahead, Jon plans to expand his #MissionGrayWolf22 program and continue supporting the causes that align with his and Jacklyn’s “Fab 5” focus areas.
RHYS HOSKINS
Rhys Hoskins and his wife Jayme have a long history of involvement with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), beginning as camp counselors during their teenage years. In Philadelphia, they participated in various MDA activities, including Zoom parties, Halloween events, educational sessions, and summer camps, helping to raise over $1 million for the organization. Their efforts supported sending children to camp and other MDA initiatives.
After Rhys joined the Milwaukee Brewers, the Hoskins continued their work with MDA, hosting 100 families at a Brewers game and organizing a meet-and-greet for 60 of those guests. They have also remained active in attending MDA summer camps and promoting awareness through public service announcements and social media. Their involvement includes both in-season and off-season activities, such as promoting Giving Tuesday for MDA and participating in year-round campaigns. Rhys also makes a point to connect with MDA families at games and through other events.
PAUL SEWALD
Paul Sewald has used his platform to drive lasting positive change through his "Sewald's Strikeouts 4 Kids" initiative, benefiting KidVantage, a nonprofit organization that provides essential items like diapers, formula, car seats, and clothing to children in need. Their efforts helped support over 18,000 children. Paul became a prominent spokesperson for KidVantage, visiting their facilities and learning about their needs, while Molly organized a drive with the Mariners Wives, further supporting the cause.
In addition to their work with KidVantage, Paul participated in a Big League Impact community service event and supports Child Crisis Arizona by pledging $1,000 per strikeout in 2024. He is also engaging with the Make-A-Wish Foundation through the Diamondbacks. Paul has demonstrated a commitment to making a difference in the lives of children and families in need.
brent suter
Brent Suter has harnessed his platform and resources to drive meaningful change in the community, focusing on combating food insecurity and supporting youth. His contributions to the Baseball Island Foundation have been pivotal, particularly in restoring their meal program, which serves 43 low-income children in the Dominican Republic. Brent’s partnerships with organizations like La Soupe in Cincinnati, the Sam Hubbard Foundation, and the Reds Community Fund have amplified his impact. He also played a key role in establishing a community garden in Bond Hill, alongside Players for the Planet and the Cincinnati Zoo, providing fresh produce to underserved areas.
Over the past year, Brent has deepened his community involvement by connecting with fellow MLB players to advance the Baseball Island Foundation's mission and amplify its impact. His regular visits to the Urban Youth Academy, his partnership with the Joe Nuxhall Miracle League, and several visits to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, where he reads from The Binky Bandit, a children's book he authored, underscore his commitment to empowering the next generation. Looking ahead, Brent plans to visit the Baseball Island kids in the Dominican Republic after the 2024 season, continue his fundraising efforts, and maintain his active role in supporting his partner organizations. His dedication to addressing food insecurity and supporting youth, through both financial contributions and personal time, reflects his unwavering commitment to making a positive difference.
jose trevino
Jose Trevino has channeled his passion for baseball into a powerful tool for community service, particularly in his home state of Texas. Over the past three years, he has organized an annual baseball event featuring tournaments, home run derbies, and celebrity games. These events draw participants from across the state, aiming to foster youth baseball and softball development. The 2023 event in Corpus Christi was especially noteworthy, featuring a home run derby off a battleship and involvement from the Savannah Bananas, showcasing Trevino's innovative approach to philanthropy.
Trevino's community efforts extend beyond these events. He has organized toy drives for military families and regularly engages with youth baseball organizations, demonstrating his deep commitment to using his platform for widespread community benefit. Through these initiatives, Trevino continues to make a significant impact, using baseball as a means to bring people together and support those in need.
trevor williams
Trevor Williams focuses his philanthropic efforts on supporting individuals with spinal cord injuries through his nonprofit organization, Project34. This organization provides funds for individuals living with spinal cord injuries, supporting home improvements, auto modifications, increased access to physical therapy, and other essential needs that promote independence, optimal health, and quality of life.
Trevor personally oversees the fulfillment of over 50 Project34 grants quarterly. His role includes managing the entire process from start to finish, which involves contacting grant recipients, maintaining ongoing dialogue, ensuring fulfillment, and following up with each recipient. These grants are tailored to meet the specific needs of the families they support, ensuring that the assistance provided is substantial and meaningful. Additionally, Trevor actively engages in community fundraising events such as a Home Run Derby, Bowling & Arcade Night, and Golf Classic to support Project34's mission.