“The Challenger League,” formed by residents of DGDP, was inspired by the Little League Challenger Division, the adaptive baseball program founded in 1989 for individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities.

The Communities of Don Guanella and Divine Providence (DGDP), part of the Intellectual Disabilities Division of Catholic Social Services (CSS), along with volunteers and students from Cardinal O’Hara High School recently celebrated the season ending of its 2019 wiffleball league with an awards banquet.

More than 100 participants and volunteers were in attendance including Father Dennis M. Weber, Director of Ministry and Mission for DGDP, and Mr. Jim Gula, volunteer, supporter, and founder of the DGDP Challenger League.

All DGDP athletes received recognition for their hard work and commitment. In addition, the “Spirit of Don Guanella” award, given to those who demonstrate the spirit and commitment to help others by putting their faith into action through service, was presented to two students at Cardinal O’Hara High School whose involvement in the school’s Community Service Corps includes assistance with the Challenger League. Both individuals received a one year $500 tuition grant through the generosity of Jim and Tina Gula.

The Communities of DGDP are dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. Dedicated staff and volunteers provide a continuum of care offering a wide range of programing options including: Community and Campus-Based Living Arrangements, Life Sharing Through Family Living, In-Home Supports, Respite Care, and Day Programs. For more information, please visit https://dgdpcommunities.org/

# # #

Editor’s Note: Catholic Social Services, a ministry of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, provides help and creates hope for thousands of individuals and families in need throughout the five-county metropolitan area. For more information, please visit https://cssphiladelphia.org/