“We are very proud to be part of this community.” 

— StarKist head of corporate affairs Michelle Faist

Rainy skies didn’t dampen the spirits of the Miracle League of Alexandria as Charlie the Tuna and representatives of the StarKist Corporation presented a check for $10,000 to MLA board president Mac Slover May 4 at the Nannie J. Lee Recreation Center.

“We are very proud to be part of this community,” said Michelle Faist, head of corporate affairs for StarKist, which is headquartered in Reston. “We are committed to being a socially responsible company and have been really fortunate to connect with some amazing local organizations like the Miracle League.”

StarKist relocated its corporate headquarters from Pittsburgh to Reston in 2022.

“We worked with the Miracle League in Pittsburgh and know what a special and incredible opportunity the organization provides to connect with those with special needs,” Faist said. “When we came to Reston we immediately looked for opportunities to connect in this region and the Miracle of Alexandria is outstanding and has such an amazing presence. Mac has been such an advocate in helping us create this partnership.”

Charlie the Tuna missed throwing out the first pitch but he didn’t hold back in handing out StarKist products to those who had gathered for the game, which was moved indoors.

“It is very important that we support the Miracle League and hope the money goes to continuing all the wonderful work they do,” Faist said. “The game and the camaraderie that is fostered through the league provides more access to even more people. It is an honor and privilege to donate this money and it also gives us a chance to connect with the community here.”

The Miracle League is one of several local charities that StarKist supports, including Korean War veterans and Cornerstone Craftsmen, whose founder Roberto Gomez was recently named a 40 Under 40 honoree by the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce.

“It’s nice to add the Miracle League as part of our overall footprint of corporate giving and showing our commitment to giving back,” Faist added.

Laura Fries, vice president of the Miracle of Alexandria board, said the money will be put to good use.

“We are hoping to get communication boards in the dugouts and front of the field,” Fries said. “We have a lot of non-verbal players and this would allow them to communicate with our volunteer Angels in the Outfield. It’s a bridge to help everyone work together. We really want the Miracle League to be a haven for parents and kids and adults with special needs. It is just amazing that StarKist found us.”