More than 100 Phoenix-based employees volunteered at the event benefitting community children

University of Phoenix is proud to support the Arizona Diamondbacks’ Winter Classic event each year with employee volunteers and as the presenting partner. The 26th annual D-backs Winter Classic, presented by University of Phoenix, took place from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Wednesday, December 13. Event coordinators estimate 120 University of Phoenix, Phoenix-based employees volunteered alongside D-backs players, coaches and staff for the celebration. University volunteers handed out backpacks filled with gifts for the children including new shoes, a sweatshirt, and books. More than 500 children attended the event.

“The University of Phoenix takes great pride in continuing our commitment to the Winter Classic for yet another year," shared John Woods, Ph.D., provost and chief academic officer. "This event holds a special place in our hearts, and collaborating with the Arizona Diamondbacks allows us to create a memorable day for hundreds of school children throughout the valley. Each year, our employees look forward to volunteering at the Winter Classic. Witnessing the collective effort of so many individuals generously giving their time to support the well-being of children in our community brings us immense joy and reinforces our shared commitment to making a positive impact."

The annual event provides Arizona schoolchildren from low-income, at-risk schools with a day of celebration, fun, and giving, with gifts provided by the University and Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation. The event began more than two decades ago when Hall of Fame pitcher Randy Johnson sought a way to give back to the community by providing children in need with new shoes. Since that time, the event has grown, and now features music, crafts, and a friendly game of baseball. This year’s activities included a baseball station featuring Baxter the D-backs mascot, photos with Santa, a shoe station, a University of Phoenix Reading Corner and The Be Kind Crew Station.

“It is meaningful to have the support of our long-time partner, University of Phoenix, at this annual event, and we are grateful for their employees who helped brighten the holidays and make an impact on local children,” said Derrick Hall, President, CEO & General Partner, Arizona Diamondbacks.

University of Phoenix Continuous Monitoring Support Specialist, Lisa Baker, says volunteering at the event was a fulfilling experience. "This was my first time volunteering for the Winter Classic, and I cannot wait to volunteer for the next one. Experiencing the magic of the day with the kids, seeing their happy smiles, and hearing infectious laughter was a great experience, and I look forward to being a part of it again next year.”

The University of Phoenix has been a proud sponsor of the Winter Classic since 2012.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, skills-mapped curriculum for our bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and a Career Services for Life® commitment help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit game7722.com.

About the Arizona Diamondbacks

The Arizona Diamondbacks provide industry-leading entertainment in a clean, safe, and family-friendly environment and make a positive impact on its fans and civic partners. The D-backs’ pinnacle on-field moment was their 2001 World Series title. The Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation has donated $85 million in charitable contributions to the Arizona community since 1997. The club plays their home games in downtown Phoenix at Chase Field, the first Major League Baseball stadium to feature a pool. The team was established in 1995 and played their inaugural season in 1998. For more information, please visit dbacks.com and losdbacks.com or @Dbacks and @LosDbacks on social media. MLB.com/DBacks.