You can't beat fun at this ballgame...

It’s one of many events on the Buffalo Grove Days Schedule.

Saturday, 4 p.m. at Kendrigan Field at Twin Creeks Park – the Buddy Baseball game.

While many attendees to Buffalo Grove Days may crave the variety of food, the music, the parade, this event is one that shouldn’t be overlooked.

This is for residents who have special needs and not for those who have a need to be special.

It’s an even where children with special needs get a chance to shine on the baseball diamond aided by residents who volunteer to help them feel special.

Sponsored by the Commission for Resident’s with Disabilities, Joanne Johnson, of the Buffalo Grove committee wrote that the highlight of the event is that it is “..Another fine example of Buffalo Grove’s sense of community.”

Imagine that -- demonstrating a sense of community.  No me-first attitude, no one taking the spotlight.

Just volunteers helping special needs kids have a good time.

The way the game works is simple.  Young people with physical challenges get to play baseball aided by a buddy – a resident who volunteers his or her time.  Quite simply, Buddy Ball pairs children with special needs with able-bodied volunteers who help the players throw or run.

It’s not a one-time event, games are held throughout the spring and summer.  The Buffalo Grove Days event has a special importance because, like the rest of BG Days, it’s a community event and a chance to showcase how residents can team up to enhance life in the village.

Worth it?  Participants and parents from Buddy Baseball games around the country seem to think so: 

•        “I love the non-competitive nature. The coaches were amazing with all the kids…they could turn a melt-down around in a flash! 

•      “This was a wonderful experience for our whole family. Thank you so much!”  

So inbetween the music, food, art, rides and parade – don’t miss a baseball game that is not all about winning or losing – but bringing happiness to a group of ballplayers who love the game and relish the chance just to play.

You’re other option is watching the Cubs.

Seems like a no brainer to me.  And you don’t have to wait until next year.