The Tri-City ValleyCats are proud to have created an anti-bullying campaign in collaboration with BlueShield of Northeastern New York, that features a children's workbook, mascot skit and peace pledge designed to help children understand what bullying is and how to properly treat others.
In 2012 the Tri-City ValleyCats teamed up with BlueShield for the K's for Kids program. For each strikeout ValleyCats pitchers recorded at home, BlueShield donated ten dollars ($3,040 total) to the Capital District YMCA, to help fund the Y's Reach Out for Youth Scholarship Program.

"As summer winds down, our thoughts turn from baseball to school. One of the best school supplies is confidence. When kids feel confident, they are less likely to participate in bullying - either as the bully or the victim. We are so proud to have been a part of the ValleyCats team in their effort to educate the community about solutions to end bullying."
-Brian O'Grady, Vice President, BlueShield of Northeastern New York.

"At the Y, we nurture the potential in every child. This year's K's for Kids campaign sponsored by BlueShield was an ideal demonstration of community collaboration for the greater good. Together, we're helping children develop the self-esteem and confidence they need to succeed in school and in life."
-Dave Brown, President/CEO, Capital District YMCA.

Anti-Bullying Mascot Skit performed in front of elementary students at School 14 in Troy:

ValleyCats Peace Pledge
I pledge to respect people even if they are different than me.
I will stand up and speak out against bullying.
I will show other kindness and eliminate hurtful behavior.
I will help others, be a friend, and include everyone despite our differences.
I pledge to be a part of the ValleyCats team, and strike out bullying!

If you would like more information on how the ValleyCats can perform at your school or organization, please contact Michelle Skinner at 518-629-2287 Ext. 15.

The K's for Kids program also featured anti-bullying presentations at area schools and libraries with ValleyCats players and the team's mascot, SouthPaw. Fun activity books designed to help children understand what bullying is and how to treat others were also distributed at presentations, at ValleyCats' home games, during birthday parties held at the Joseph L. Bruno Stadium, and were available through the ValleyCats Kid's Club.