ThinkDIFFERENTLY/Disability, Dream & Do Baseball Camp Returns to Heritage Financial Park on Aug. 16th

Volunteers sought to create a meaningful event for all;
Nominations open to recognize local inclusion advocates

Dutchess County Government and its ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative is excited to again sponsor the ThinkDIFFERENTLY/Disability Dream & Do (D3Day) Baseball Camp on Saturday, Aug. 16, from 9:45 a.m. to noon at Heritage Financial Park in Fishkill. This free, inclusive event offers residents with physical, developmental and intellectual disabilities an energetic morning of baseball fun and skill-building – including batting, fielding, baserunning and more – with mentorship from Hudson Valley Renegades players and coaches. Registration is required and available online at d3day.com/hudson-valley-enroll. Early registration is strongly encouraged, as space is limited and this popular event routinely reaches capacity quickly.

Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “This camp at our great County park embodies everything our ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative, including our exciting ‘Think Accessible’ efforts, stands for: celebrating inclusion, fostering connections, making our community accessible to all and building confidence through community support. We hope as many aspiring big-leaguers take the chance to enjoy this great event.”

 In addition to on-field instruction, each participant will receive a complimentary branded camp T‑shirt and lunch, as well as tickets to the Renegades’ Aug. 17 game, courtesy of the team.

The camp is a collaboration between Dutchess County Government, the Renegades and Disability Dream & Do, which empowers individuals with disabilities through inclusive sports events, connecting them with professional athletes to foster participation and personal growth.

Renegades General Manager Tom Denlinger said, “Renegades baseball and Heritage Financial Park are all about community, and hosting this great event each summer is a highlight for our players and coaches alike. The energy and joy from participants and families are truly inspiring, and the Renegades look forward to helping make more lifelong memories for all who attend.”

This camp depends on local volunteers – whether they’re individuals, families, community groups, teams or businesses – to ensure a seamless experience and make the event a day that all participants will long cherish. Those looking to volunteer are encouraged to register at https://d3day.com/volunteer.

Dutchess County residents are also encouraged to nominate a Dutchess County resident, group or business to be honored at the end of each D3Day camp with the annual “Pulling Each Other Along” Award, which recognizes those who have tirelessly championed the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. Nominations are being accepted at d3day.com/peoa-award.

D3Day Director Doug Cornfield said, “We’re thrilled to partner again with Dutchess County and Renegades to empower young people of every ability to dream big. Help us recognize the local disability champions among us by submitting award nominations online for the ‘Pulling Each Other Along’ Award.”

Established in 2024 by County Executive Serino, Dutchess County’s “Think Accessible” initiative shines a spotlight on businesses and municipalities that go above and beyond to foster accessibility and inclusion. More than just compliance, “Think Accessible” works to create a county where people of all abilities can fully participate and thrive.