Congressional Women's Softball Game Inc

The Congressional Women's Softball Game Inc is a nonprofit organization in the United States dedicated to raising funds and awareness for breast cancer, specifically focusing on young adults diagnosed with the disease. The organization's efforts culminate in an annual softball game that pits a bipartisan team of women Members of Congress against the women of the Washington, D.C. Press Corps.

History

Established in 2010 by Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz after her own battle with breast cancer, the game was created to address the exclusion of women from the traditional Congressional Baseball Game and to support issues important to women, notably breast cancer awareness and support[2].

Mission and Impact

The mission of the Congressional Women's Softball Game Inc is to provide financial resources to 501(c)(3) organizations, with the Young Survival Coalition being the primary beneficiary[4][5]. The Young Survival Coalition is a premier global organization dedicated to addressing the critical issues faced by young adults diagnosed with breast cancer. The game not only raises significant funds but also fosters a sense of community and female empowerment, attracting thousands of spectators each year[2].

Event Features

• Annual Softball Game: The game is typically held in the summer and features a competitive matchup between women Members of Congress and the women of the D.C. Press Corps.
• Charitable Fundraising: Proceeds from the game and related activities are directed to support young adults with breast cancer. The event has consistently increased its fundraising numbers over the years, achieving a record high of over $675,000 in recent years[2].
• Community Engagement: The intimate setting of the game provides a unique opportunity for attendees to connect with the players and the cause, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and community support[2].

Recent Developments

The game's popularity and impact have grown significantly, with the event attracting over 4,000 attendees in recent years[2]. Despite the smaller scale compared to the Congressional Baseball Game, it has gained recognition for its meaningful cause and the empowerment it brings to women in sports and politics[2]. The organization continues to stick with smaller fields to ensure that the focus remains on maximizing donations to the charity, rather than venue costs[2].