The 2024 World Series: A Stage for Sustainability, Community, and Inclusivity
The pinnacle of the baseball world is on display as the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers face off for the title of 2024 MLB champion. This highly anticipated matchup marks the first time since 2020 that the teams with the best records in each league are meeting in the World Series, with the Dodgers currently leading the series 2-0. While fans are captivated by the action on the field, the 2024 World Series is also highlighting Major League Baseball’s deepened commitment to environmental responsibility, community support, and inclusivity.
With impactful activations at both Dodger Stadium and Yankee Stadium, MLB is introducing initiatives that go well beyond the game itself. From waste reduction efforts to sensory-friendly accommodations, MLB alongside partners like Capital One, T-Mobile, and KultureCity are making this year’s World Series a meaningful experience for fans and local communities alike. Here’s a closer look at some of these initiatives.
Environmental Responsibility at the World Series
For the 2024 World Series, MLB is amplifying its commitment to environmental responsibility and community engagement through several key activations at both Dodger Stadium and Yankee Stadium. Each venue will feature World Series Green Teams, who will collect recyclables between innings and promote eco-friendly practices to fans. This hands-on initiative aims to reduce waste and spread awareness on sustainable habits that spectators can implement in their daily lives. In Los Angeles, MLB Green will also contribute $10,000 to the LA Conservation Corps on behalf of the Dodgers. This donation supports the Corps' mission to provide local youth and young adults with paid work experience in conservation, helping them gain valuable life skills and resilience through hands-on projects. At Yankee Stadium, MLB Green will donate $10,000 to Rock and Wrap It Up!, a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing food waste and feeding the hungry. Through this initiative, unserved food from Yankee Stadium will be distributed to local food banks, aiding over 120,000 community members annually. The organization also educates local municipalities and food banks on effective food recovery strategies, amplifying its impact in New York City.
Capital One and Jackie Robinson Foundation
Capital One, the World Series presenting sponsor, is continuing its long-standing partnership with the Jackie Robinson Foundation by presenting a $250,000 donation at the series. This contribution builds on Capital One’s season-long campaign, which donated $1,000 for each “Capital One Walk-Off” this season. Funds will support the JRF Scholars program, providing college scholarships and leadership training to aspiring students, furthering Jackie Robinson’s legacy, and promoting educational opportunities for the next generation.
T-Mobile’s ‘’Rally for Relief
T-Mobile’s “Rally for Relief” initiative will provide aid to communities affected by natural disasters, including Hurricanes Helene and Milton. For each home run hit during the World Series, T-Mobile will donat e $25,000 to the American Red Cross, with an additional $10 contribution for each texted donation made by fans. T-Mobile’s relief contributions could total up to $1 million, reinforcing MLB’s broader disaster relief efforts that amount to nearly $4 million in contributions in 2024 alone. Through this partnership with the Red Cross, T-Mobile aims to provide emergency support, shelter, meals, and supplies to those in need.
Sensory Inclusion in the World Series
To create an inclusive experience for fans with sensory sensitivities, MLB is partnering with KultureCity at both Dodger Stadium and Yankee Stadium. At Dodger Stadium, KultureCity volunteers will distribute sensory bags, with a sensory room located in the Right Field Pavilion offering a peaceful, supportive environment for guests with sensory challenges. In New York, KultureCity volunteers will provide sensory bags at Gate 2, while fans can also access the new sensory room on the Terrace Level at Section 320C. This dedicated space includes sensory-friendly features like bean bag chairs, fidget toys, and bubble walls to help fans manage sensory overload. This season, the Yankees have expanded this initiative by opening a sensory room at One World Middle School, underscoring their commitment to sensory inclusion within the community.
Conclusion
As the 2024 World Series captivates baseball fans worldwide, MLB’s commitment to positive social impact is on full display. By prioritizing environmental responsibility, disaster relief, and sensory inclusion, the league demonstrates how major sporting events can make a lasting difference beyond the game. Through partnerships with impactful organizations and sponsors, MLB is setting a high standard for social and environmental stewardship. The initiatives featured at this year’s World Series serve as a testament to MLB’s dedication to leaving a legacy that extends far beyond the field, inspiring fans and future generations alike.
