Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

St. John's University student-athletes opened their campus to over 300 special-needs children from New York City schools on April 23 for a day filled with sports activities. The event, organized in collaboration with Community Mayors for Children with Special Needs, a nonprofit based in Brooklyn, NY, has been a part of the university's outreach for over ten years.

Students from Baseball, Men's and Women's Basketball, Men's and Women's Soccer, Women's Volleyball, and Men's Lacrosse teams engaged with the visiting children, instructing and playing various sports with them. Red Storm Men's Basketball player Sadiku Ibine Ayo expressed his sentiments, stating, "Life can be stressful when you play college basketball, but working with these kids makes you recognize how fortunate you are."

The day included fun-filled competitions at Belson Stadium, Jack Kaiser Stadium, and Taffner Field House. Brian Kelly, Men’s Lacrosse captain, underlined the importance of the event, remarking, "It is easy to get caught up in the opportunity that we have, but to put a smile on the faces of these kids is super rewarding."

Athletes like soccer player Stephanie Cornelius and pitcher Jed Boyle took part, echoing the community-centric mission of St. John's. Stephanie noted, "Sports is so much more than that," while Boyle commented on how the event aligns with St. John's Vincentian mission.

Bellkis Fuentes, a speech-language pathologist from P 811Q, watched as her students enthusiastically engaged with athletes. She emphasized the value beyond sports, highlighting social interaction and engagement.

Financial Officer Kenneth Honig shared how these visits are a high point of the nonprofit's year, stating, "These children get to be regular kids for a day."

This event reflects the partnership between St. John's University and Community Mayors, embodying the shared commitment to community and inclusivity.