Detroit nonprofit to uplift autism awareness with celebrity softball game

July 17, 2026

Safeway Community Services, a Detroit nonprofit founded in 2022 to support individuals with disabilities, is hosting its second annual celebrity softball game fundraiser at The Corner Ballpark in Corktown. The organization, created by Christina Jordan and her mother Anisha Jordan after being inspired by Christina's twin brothers with intellectual disabilities, has already served over 1,000 people across Detroit and Houston through various programs including autism awareness training and educational support. During Saturday's event, the nonprofit will award $1,000 scholarships to three college interns while providing entertainment through local celebrity players, live music, and food trucks.

Who is affected

Youth and adults with disabilities
Christina Jordan's twin brothers with intellectual disabilities
Over 1,000 people served in Detroit and Houston
Three college interns receiving scholarships
A Michigan State University student (previous scholarship recipient)
A Detroit mother and her son who plays baseball
Five families who received $1,000 Target gift cards in December
Teens and young adults in mentorship and internship programs

What action is being taken

Hosting the "Roots n' Stars: Celebrity Softball Classic" on Saturday from 4-7:30 p.m.
Awarding three $1,000 scholarships to college interns during the event
Providing live music, food trucks, raffles, giveaways and games at the event
Promoting the event and autism awareness through community partners and sponsors

Why it matters

This event matters because it raises both funds and awareness for autism and disability services in underserved communities while providing tangible educational support through scholarships and internship programs. The nonprofit fills a critical gap by offering autism awareness training, special education support, and creating safe community spaces for families affected by disabilities. By combining fundraising with education and community engagement, Safeway addresses immediate needs while building long-term support systems for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

What's next

A portion of funds from the weekend event will be donated to the Detroit family during Safeway's next autism awareness seminar in October
Next year, the nonprofit hopes to award at least six scholarships (increasing from three this year)

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com