Community Initiative - Berkman's Bunch
Houston Astros All-Star Lance Berkman Partners with The Methodist Hospital
A locker room visit with one of the hottest hitters in professional baseball is a privilege usually reserved only for insiders and the news media. Unless, of course, you happen to be a member of Berkman's Bunch.
Every Saturday before a home game, Houston Astros slugger/outfielder Lance Berkman meets a group of 50 children and welcomes them to the game. He hands out autographs and gifts, and answers questions from the kids.
"Many of these kids are attending a game for the first time," says Berkman. "It's great to see kids excited about coming to a game, and about baseball in general."
Sponsored by The Methodist Hospital and the Astros, Berkman's Bunch is a community program that allows Houston-area children and their families the opportunity to attend a Houston Astros baseball game.
The children are part of a number of organizations chosen by Berkman and Methodist, some are beneficiaries of Methodist's community benefits program. Participating organizations include Boys & Girls Country, TOMAGWA, Northwest Assistance Ministries, Baytown Family YMCA and Hope for Youth.
When Berkman walks into the room for a pre-game visit, girls squeal and boys press forward to shake his hand. Occasionally Berkman – a new father (his baby daughter was born last year at The Methodist Hospital) – will give a child a piggyback ride on his broad shoulders.
"I feel very blessed to be in the position that I'm in," he says. "Berkman's Bunch has given me a way to return that to the community. Thanks to Methodist for helping to make that happen."
Berkman also serves as the voice for Methodist's health awareness radio spots, which air during Astros game broadcasts. He also makes personal appearances to visit Methodist patients and employees.
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