Annual Greg Peterson/TRC Night at the BallPark held.

Jimmy Oakes poses with Greg Peterson and Rand Smith after throwing out the first pitch.

Greg Peterson wears many hats: Chairman of the Robert H. Jackson Center’s Board of Directors; partner in the law firm of Phillips Lytle; avid baseball fan; winner of numerous community service awards.

But for TRC, Greg is best known as being a friend to us and to people with disabilities for more than 30 years. He first joined TRC’s Board of Directors in 1977 and served numerous terms before retiring in 2005 (though he didn’t go far – Greg moved to TRC Foundation’s Board, and continues to serve in that capacity). Keenly aware of Greg’s passion for local baseball, TRC paid tribute to Greg’s impact on the agency by naming its annual “TRC Night at the Ballpark” in his honor when he retired

Each year, hundreds of TRC consumers, employees, Board members, and families attend a Jamestown Jammers game. As part of the evening’s events, TRC’s Board holds its monthly meeting at the stadium before the game starts. And each year, a TRC service recipient throws out the ceremonial first pitch.

Dr. Todd Jacobson, Vice President of The Resource Center’s Board, poses with his daughter Maria.

This year, Jimmy Oakes was asked to throw out the first pitch. Assisted by a staff member from his home, Ashley Eckstrom, Jimmy made his way to the pitcher’s mound and fired the ball to Outfielder Rand Smith. Rand then autographed the baseball and gave it to Jimmy, who was thrilled – Rand is one of the Jammers’ best players, having recently been named a New York-Penn League All-Star.

Greg was on hand to cheer on Jimmy. Modest about his many accomplishments, Greg was genuinely touched at having TRC Night at the Ballpark named for him.

“It’s a real honor having been part of The Resource Center for over 30 years,” said Greg. He noted that TRC Night at the Ballpark combines several of his passions: The Resource Center, baseball and people with disabilities.

Greg explained that he joined TRC’s Board at the urging of a partner in his law firm. He jumped at the chance, saying, “I’ve always been interested in helping people who were perhaps not as fortunate as me.”

Though the Jammers lost that evening, everyone had a good time.

Enjoying the evening

COMMENT

TRC is always looking for community members to further our mission by joining one of our Board Advisory Committees. If you are interested in improving the lives of people with disabilities and can spare some time each month or two, please consider joining one of our committees. For more information, phone 661-1412.