We cheer on the children and young adults we serve just like fans in the stands, celebrating every base they reach on their journey. Sometimes the victories stretch beyond our therapy rooms and into the community—and that's what happened this summer at PNC Park.

Graham steps up to the plate.

Meet Graham: a young boy who loves elephants, city buses, and—of course—baseball. He’s managing the curveballs of a genetic disease that brings developmental delays requiring both physical and speech therapy. Graham got his start in our Early Intervention program, a strong first inning to give him the skills he needed to grow.

From learning to walk and sit up, to now riding a bike and scooter, he's rounding the bases with big wins. Speech, though, was a tougher opponent. With help from our Speech Therapy program, Graham has broken through, finding his voice and connecting with his two older brothers through baseball.

“That was a highly emotional time when it was hard to formulate his words," his mom, Jill, recalls. "In working with two therapists from The Children’s Institute, they’ve helped him come into his own and develop skills he needs to interact with his peers.”

Graham gets his chance at bat.

This summer, Graham turned three during a special celebration with us, other families, and our partners, the Pittsburgh Pirates and Pirates Charities. Together, we marked the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act—landmark legislation that aims to clear the bases for individuals living with disabilities.

For Graham, meeting Pirates players before the game was the ultimate grand slam. Pitchers Dennis Santana and David Bednar were even gracious enough to autograph Graham's glove.

Why Graham’s story—and your support—matters.

Every child and family we serve is playing their own ballgame. Sometimes the innings are long, but with expert care and teamwork, they hit it out of the park. Families like Graham’s celebrate every win, no matter the score, and discover the resilience to keep playing.

That’s why your support is so essential. You’re not just in the stands—you’re part of the team, making sure kids like Graham have the chance to play the game.

Step up to the plate and show your support for kids like Graham.