The Mission
Introduced in 2009 and holding its 15th edition in 2024 (including a pause in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic), the Yankees' HOPE Week initiative (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) is rooted in the fundamental belief that acts of goodwill provide hope and encouragement to more than just the recipient of the gesture. HOPE Week 2024 will take place from Monday, June 17, through Friday, June 21.
On each of five consecutive days during the celebration of HOPE Week, the Yankees shine a spotlight on a different individual, family or organization worthy of recognition and support. Each day is designed so honorees can share their inspirational stories with Yankees players, fans and the media, while being surprised with the day of their dreams. Though each day's celebration ultimately culminates with a visit to Yankee Stadium on the day of a game, outreach typically takes place at a location in the community that symbolizes the accomplishments of the honoree.
THIS IS HOPE WEEK
The Yankees have been proud to announce the dates of each year's HOPE Week during a spring training pregame ceremony at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. The announcement features recognition of a Tampa area-based individual or organization whose great works in the community embodies the spirit of the initiative.
At its core, HOPE Week is about people helping people. The one thing everybody has — no matter where they come from, what their financial situation is or what kind of skills they possess — is time. By involving every one of our players and coaches, Manager Aaron Boone, General Manager Brian Cashman and the entire front office staff during the celebration of HOPE Week, the Yankees are sending the message that everyone can give of themselves to make their community a better place.
Equally significant during HOPE Week is garnering publicity for the highlighted causes and organizations. The greatest challenge facing many not-for-profits is generating interest, awareness and funding for their missions.
Implementing the Initiative
The Yankees' HOPE Week initiative is an organizational effort, integrating players, coaches, the Yankees front office, dozens of sponsors and some of New York's most iconic social and corporate institutions.
The 2024 season marks the 11th year that each of the Yankees' U.S.-based affiliates have held their own HOPE Weeks, truly making this initiative one that the entire organization stands behind in words and in action.
The initial phase of HOPE Week planning involves the selection of the honorees. In order to draw on the most diverse and inspiring group possible, an online nomination form is made available to the public on yankees.com. Additionally, the Yankees Media Relations Department reviews general fan mail and independently reaches out to other public social institutions to find exceptional individuals to recognize.
HOPE Week is designed to be an event that fans look forward to every year. Throughout the five-day stretch of games, the HOPE Week narrative is woven into the Yankees' on-field activities. Honorees are treated like members of the team, joining players and coaches next to the hitting cage during batting practice and on the field after victories for celebratory high fives. They also participate in traditional pregame festivities, including ceremonial first pitches and the exchange of team lineup cards. Most importantly, all are given a platform to tell their inspiring stories in their own voices.
Beginning with the White House’s United We Serve initiative launched in 2010, the Yankees continue to raise awareness of the President's call for Americans to serve. The Yankees encourage fans to visit AmeriCorps.gov to find service and volunteer opportunities in their communities. Learn more here.
The Impact
Direct Giving
Nominate someone you know for recognition during HOPE Week!
HOPE Week in the News
HOPE Week has been the subject many local, national and international news stories since its inception. Here is a small selection of highlights from over the years:
- CBS Evening News: Gwen Goldman Fulfills Dream of Becoming Yankees Bat Girl 60 Years After Writing the Team
- ESPN: Yankees provide help for bullying victim
- NBC Nightly News: “Making a Difference”
- CNN: Yankees help Haitian refugee children with HOPE
- MLB Network: This is HOPE Week - Celebrating 10 Inspirational Years
Testimonials from Previous HOPE Week Honorees:
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