On today’s second day of their seventh annual HOPE Week (Helping Others Persevere & Excel) on Monday, August 17, the Yankees celebrated the efforts of The Prospector Theater. In November 2014, Valerie Jensen opened a unique movie theater in Ridgefield, Conn., staffed primarily by individuals with disabilities. The Prospector Theater is more than a movie theater. It’s a place where staff members are referred to as “prospects,” and are given the training and confidence needed to realize their own potential. In its first 10 months, the staff of theater has grown to over 100 people, with no signs of slowing down.
Brian Cashman, Joe Girardi, Chase Headley, Brian McCann and Mark Teixeira surprised the theater’s employees at The Prospector Theater, learned about their jobs and took a tour of the facility. They also spoke to the prospects about the importance of working together as a team. The group then visited Yankee Stadium, where they observed batting practice from the field. Founder Valerie Jensen was joined by one of the theater’s prospects, Alex Giobbi, in throwing out the ceremonial first pitches.
Photos Courtesy of the New York Yankees