Early community support for Andalusia’s plans to add a Miracle League field to its recreational facilities has been promising.

Already, the Covington County Commission has approved an agreement with the city to contribute $10,000 per year for the next five years; the Town of Sanford has pledged $5,000 per year; and the City of Opp this week agreed to add $2,500 per year. That $87,500 is a great start, but a long way from the $450,000 the project is expected to cost.

Miracle League removes the barriers that keep children with mental and physical disabilities off the baseball field and lets them experience baseball. Children play on custom-designed, rubberized turf fields that accommodate wheelchairs and other assertive devices. The league uses a “buddy” system, pairing each player with an able-bodied peer. More than 500 potential Miracle League players have been identified in Covington County.

But for Miracle League to become a reality, it will take many of us making small, medium and large commitments to its success. The first opportunity comes this Thurs., March 22, when a kick-off social and fundraiser is planned for 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Springdale.

A $15 donation to Miracle League is the required admission. The event will include live music, a silent auction, hors d’oeuvres and light beverages. The event is sponsored in part by Horn Beverage Co., Inc.

There will be other opportunities in the coming months for many to make pledges to this project. Showing our initial support this Thursday is a great way to start.