2019
July, 2019

On July 23, 2019, Field of Hopes, for the fourth consecutive year, visited the Harriet Tubman Family Living Center. Due to inclement weather, we were not able to use the backyard this year so we brought the festivities indoors. Though mother nature tried to put a damper on our party, she could not deter us!

As always, Field of Hopes, provided backpacks full of school supplies, and for the first time, a basketball, to each of the children currently residing in the facility. In addition, FOH provided lunch for members of the Harriet Tubman community and members of the FDNY. Nothing boosts community relations like a shared meal! Some clothing and shoes were also donated.

Once again, firefighter Elvis of the FDNY, joined Field of Hopes for the afternoon. He provided CPR training, shared his knowledge about becoming a firefighter and answered all questions asked by the community. He did an amazing job working with the children as well. Even though the room was a little crowded, everyone had a great time. We hope to continue with this incredible partnership for many years to come!





2018 FIELD OF HOPES RECAP

Hato Mayor Saturday School/ El Campo
Field of Hopes traveled to the Dominican Republic for the annual distribution of school supplies to the students enrolled in our Saturday English Language Learning Program. On August 13, 2018, FOH members returned to Hato Mayor to distribute backpacks filled with supplies to the 50 students participating in our very successful program. Yet again we were amazed with the students' progress in English! The theme of this year’s performance was "Helping Others". Through skits and songs, the students relayed the importance of cooperation and kindness. The event culminated in a "Dance Off", involving the students, teachers and FOH members. A wonderful time was had by all!

This year Field of Hopes also brought school supplies to a school in El Seybo, DR. An additional 40 filled book bags were given to the students attending. Like many schools in the mountains of the Dominican Republic, there was no running water or electricity and supplies are scarce. Despite their circumstances, the children are excited to attend school each day. They were absolutely thrilled to be receiving supplies of their own to assist in furthering their education!

Old Age Home
A trip to Hato Mayor is not complete unless FOH members stop by to see the residents of the Hogar De Ancianos Romelia Salas De Barcelo, home for the elderly! As in the past, medical and cleaning supplies, food and toiletries were generously donated. The residents and caregivers are always welcoming and one can’t help but smile in their presence.

Shelter
On July 31, 2018, Field of Hopes partnered with The Harriet Tubman Family Living Center in New York City for the Fourth Annual donation drive. FOH brought the children, currently living in this shelter, book bags containing school supplies. In addition to the 85 backpacks, FOH donated clothing, books and toys to these families in need. As Board Members spoke to the children and their parents, it was obvious that everyone was excited for the new school year to begin, particularly since they now had all of the supplies needed.

May, 2018

On May 8, 2018, Field of Hopes hosted its 4th annual fundraising event, Backpacks for Kids, at Corner Social, located in NYC. Attendees gathered for an enjoyable evening of camaraderie, raffles, music and a mesmerizing dance performance by Harlem’s own, Cartier. Also present in support of the charitable works of Field of Hopes, was the CEO of Latino Sports and famed author, Julio Pabon.


Field of Hopes is a non-profit organization established for the sole purpose of improving the lives of children, through education and sports. As always, 100% of all funds received are given directly back to the community in the form of donated necessities and English language learning programs both here in New York City and in the Dominican Republic.


Field of Hopes would like to thank all of its families, friends and supporters for their unfailing generosity! If you are interested in becoming involved with this wonderful organization, through volunteering or donating to Field of Hopes, please contact Esperanza Ramirez.

2017
August, 2017

In August of 2017, Field of Hopes returned to the town of Hato Mayor, Dominican Republic, to bring much needed school supplies to the children enrolled in our Saturday English Language Learning Program. As we distributed the supply filled book bags, the children’s happiness quickly turned to excitement upon receiving their new found treasures. In addition to providing school supplies, our highly successful Saturday program has given the children a sense of pride in their new found English abilities. This year the FOH Board Members were treated to a display of the students newly acquired talents through a performance replete with songs, skits and speeches entirely in English!


While in Hato Mayor, FOH members visited the Hogar De Ancianos Romelia Salas De Barcelo, home for the elderly. This year, donated provisions included medical and cleaning supplies, eyeglasses, toiletries and nonperishable food. Stopping in to visit the residents and bringing basic necessities continues to be a highlight of our trip.


On the local level, for the third consecutive year, Field of Hopes partnered with The Harriet Tubman Family Living Center in order to provide the children, currently living in this shelter, with book bags containing school supplies. It was extremely rewarding to witness the children delightedly rummaging through their bags to see their new supplies. It was even more gratifying to observe the look of relief on the parents’ faces, knowing that one financial burden had been lifted and that their children would be well prepared to face the upcoming school year.

In addition, FOH engaged the assistance of the FDNY, to provide CPR training to the adults living at the facility. Participants were taught how to recognize a respiratory emergency, as well as possible life-saving techniques that can be administered while awaiting the arrival of trained responders.


June, 2017

On June 6, 2017 Field of Hopes hosted its 3rd annual fundraising event, Backpacks for Kids, at A Loft, located in the heart of Harlem, NYC. Attendees gathered for an enjoyable evening of music and billiards in support of the charitable works of Field of Hopes. In addition, Founder and President of FOH, Esperanza Ramirez, was recognized for her tireless efforts in aiding underprivileged children by none other than Miguel Rodriguez of Liga Miguel Rodriguez.

Field of Hopes in a non-profit organization established for the sole purpose of improving the lives of children, through education and sports. 100% of all funds are given directly back to the community in the form of donated necessities and English language learning programs. For example, proceeds from this successful event will be used to purchase schoolbags and supplies for more than 180 children in need, here in New York City and in the Dominican Republic.

Field of Hopes would like to thank all of its families, friends and supporters for the generosity shown today and everyday! Each donation, recognition, kind word and/or smile, fuels the drive to do more good for our community and the world at large.

If you are interested in becoming involved with this wonderful organization, through volunteering or donating to Field of Hopes, please visit our website www.fieldofhopes.org or contact Esperanza Ramirez at eramirez@fieldofhopes.org.

2016
August, 2016

On May 19, 2016 Field of Hopes held its 2nd annual fundraising event at the Corner Social, located in Harlem, NYC. Spectacular guests and generous donations made this an exceptionally successful affair. The proceeds from this magical night were used to fund a number of noteworthy projects.

Locally, Field of Hopes had the honor of collaborating with the Harriet Tubman Family Living Center, one of several organizations comprising the West Harlem Group Assistance Inc. in New York City. The Harriet Tubman Family Living Center, located at138 W 143rd St., is a transitional housing facility which provides temporary housing for homeless families displaced by fires, building condemnations, disasters or evictions. On September 1st, just in time for the upcoming 2016-2017 school year, we provided backpacks, school supplies and educational toys to the approximately 80 children currently residing in the facility.

On a global level, for the fourth consecutive year, Field of Hopes brought some relief to struggling families in the Dominican Republic. FOH is continuing with our current endeavor of providing English lessons to 40 children in the town of Hato Mayor. The gift of a second language potentially allows for better job opportunities, which in turn can lead to an overall better quality of life. On August 15th, FOH also donated backpacks and school supplies to all of the children currently enrolled in our English program. In addition, 50 backpacks filled with school supplies were given to other underprivileged children throughout the towns of Andres, Boca Chica, and Hato Mayor, Dominican Republic.

Though Field of Hopes is primarily geared towards bettering the lives of impoverished children, we have taken on another worthy cause. For the last three years FOH has donated provisions, such as medical and cleaning supplies, nonperishable food and an air conditioning unit, to the Hogar De Ancianos Romelia Salas De Barcelo. This beautifully run and maintained home for the elderly, located in Hato Mayor, DR, relies heavily on donations from the surrounding community. Stopping in to visit the residents and bringing much needed supplies has become a highlight of our trip.

2016
May 20, 2016

Field of Hopes recently held its 2nd fundraising event at The Corner Social, in the heart of Harlem, NYC. Supporters gathered to enjoy good company, good food and a good time, all while supporting a great cause. Proceeds from this event will be used to fund numerous projects geared towards bettering the lives of impoverished children locally and abroad. One of Field of Hopes’ current endeavors is providing English lessons to 40 children in the Dominican Republic. The gift of a second language potentially allows for better job opportunities, which in turn can lead to an overall better quality of life.

This fun-filled evening was attended by a number of special guests. Long time Field of Hopes supporter Ray Negron, Special Advisor to the NY Yankees for over 30 years and current host of “Impact” on ESPN Desportes, was amongst the crowd. Another celebrity present was actor Luis Antonio Ramos, who is currently starring in the widely popular series “Power”, televised on Starz. Also in attendance was local Harlem legend Cartier, who entertained the crowd with a lively dance number.

The Board members of Field of Hopes appreciates all of our supporters, past, present and future; you are the reason we can do as much as we do for those less fortunate. We would like to offer our sincere thanks to a number of people who helped to make this fundraiser a great success. First, we would like to thank our friends and family for their unwavering support. Special thanks to David Beck and Dr. Paul Occtaviano, who are always generous with volunteering their time and resources. We would also like to show our gratitude to Cecil Sanchez for capturing this magical night on film. In addition, we are grateful to Jennifer Quiroz who did a wonderful job selling raffle tickets. Lastly, we would like to thank the owners and staff at The Corner Social who graciously accommodated our event.

2015
August 11, 2015

​In August of 2013, Field of Hopes board members first entered the Centro Tecnologico Comunitario in Hato Mayor, a preschool educating three and four year oldsin the Dominican Republic. At that time, FOH donated backpacks full of school supplies to the 40 students in attendance. The gift of basic educational necessities brought smiles from the children and tears of gratitude from their parents. Upon witnessing the impact of our donations, what began as the desire to aid some financially burdened families quickly escalated into “What more can Field of Hopes do for these children?”

​Working hand-in-hand with Estela Garcia Hernandez, the incredibly loving, doting and devoted teacher, Field of Hopes set out to truly make a difference in these 40 children’s lives. Through a conjoined effort, information was gathered on the students in order to track their progress and provide additional assistance once they graduated fromthe school. For the last three years FOH has continued to meet with the families, donatingschool supplies as well as sturdy school shoes to each child.

Our most noteworthy contribution to date was launched in January of 2015, whereupon Field of Hopes provided a teacher to oversee Saturday English lessons for allof the students. On our most recent visit, the children couldn’t wait to demonstrate their new found knowledge of the English language. FOH looks forward to helping “our” children achieve academic excellence in the years to follow. Join us in our quest to change their lives, one child at a time.

     
     

2015
August 11,2015

Though Field of Hopes is an organization primarily dedicated to bettering the lives of impoverished children through education and sports, we are not blind to the fact that many others are in need of aid. In February of 2014, FOH donated an air conditioning unit to Hogar De Ancianos Romelia Salas De Barcelo, a home for the elderly in Hato Mayor, Dominican Republic. The unit has since provided comfort to the residents during bouts of extremely hot weather conditions as well as during times of sickness.

​This beautifully run home is largely maintained through donations from the surrounding community. Thus, Field of Hopes found its next undertaking. Over the past two years we have donated much needed medical and cleaning supplies, in addition to pantry provisions. FOH is currently working on providing medical care for some of themore seriously afflicted patients.

2013
5/23/2013
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2012
5/8/2012

Dear Mr. Hoffman, Mr. Presbott and Ms. Ramirez,

On behalf of the KIPP Infinity Baseball team, I would like to thank you for taking time to come to our school and speak to our students. It is experiences like yesterday that truly stick in our students’ minds and will help guide them in the decisions they make, the knowledge they will build and the opportunities they will take part in. As George Steinbrenner once said, “I believe the success of a team is one half attitude and one half discipline”. Thank you for embodying this belief and encouraging our players to do the same.

Respectfully,
Lynn Liran

2011
On Friday November 25, 2011, arrangements were made for Field of Hopes and Manhattan Youth Baseball to visit the Centro Educativo Barrio Blanco. We met with the children in all the classes from K-8th grad In the Dominican Republic, children only get to go to school for 4 hours each day, the morning session is from 8-12pm and then an afternoon session from 12-4pm. A total of 600 children attend the school, 300 pesession. The photo taken here were during the time we gave out the school supplies we brought. It was enough for every child to receive a notebook, pen, pencil, ruler and then general art supplies for the school. Sports equipment was not our primary purpose but what we collected was also given to the school who in turn donated them to local soccer and baseball teams.

Against the advice of the local authorities we went into the neighborhood where these children live to bring you some background as to what these children need to over come. We were excited and trilled to have Steve Winter in our group, a photogographer from National Geographic who documented our visit. Thank you all for your support and you should be proud and happy to know that your donation of time and goods made a direct impact on these children.


     
     

2010
MYB BullDogs host Team from Santiago, Dominican Republic

Wednesday, August 4th, 2010

The Jose Ventura Liga from Santiago visited New York City this past month playing teams all month long on their “Cleats for Kids” drive. The Ventura trip was organized by Trip Coordinator Estaban Saint who is an active Umpire.
The MYB Bulldogs, Managed by Andrew Perel and the boys where happy to host an evening game with the team and later share a pizza dinner with their visiting 12 year olds. Esperanza Ramirez from field of Hopes was the Host with Bobby Hoffman... Andy was the recipient of a Certificate of Honor from the Ventura Liga.
These teams will hope to be meeting again soon down in San Pedro for the International Caribbean World Series play in San Pedro, Dominican Republic in the week of March 19 – 26, 2011.



Yankees Baseball Clinic
Where: Tampa
When: March 14-20


30 kids will train with the Yankees Spring Training coaches as well as attend 3 home games

Latino Sports - News, Blog, Videos, Collectables, and Memorabilia (Click Here)

3/15/2009

FOH sponsored a pizza party on uniform day to two teams (International Team Age 13 and International Team Age 14) representing Bronx/Uptown Manhattan and Harlem.

2/1/2009
Donated baseball autographed by Reggie Jackson for a raffle benefiting the International Baseball Team representing New York in the Little League World Series Moca, Dominican Republic 2009

1/12/2009
Assisted the East Harlem Little League in obtaining donation check from the Yankee Organization

2008
A grand amount of gently used baseball equipment was donated to the Miguel Rodriguez Baseball League in the impoverished municipality of Mao in the Dominican Republic. The league received a small monetary donation to benefit the annual Christmas dinner provided to the children participating in the teams. A baseball autographed by Willie Randolph was also donated for a fundraising raffle.

2007
Esperanza helped East Harlem Little League raise over $17,000 in donated funds and $3000 in baseball equipment. A small, informal meeting in Union Square later turned into the first of a series of creative gatherings. Her industriousness and passion for her community paved the way for Field of Hopes.