Inquirer Editorial: Moyer Foundation stepping up to the plate

February 09, 2012

Jamie Moyer may no longer be a Phillie, but he has left a part of himself with this city that will have a positive impact on its youth long after he steps away from baseball.

Philadelphia is one of three cities the Moyer Foundation calls home. Created by Moyer and his wife, Karen, the foundation funds programs that help children handle stress, including the Camp Erin program for children mourning the death of a parent or close relative, and the Camp Mariposa program for children with substance abuse in the family.

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In cities like Philadelphia, where drug abuse is such a strong factor in the violence that permeates neighborhoods and ultimately can impact schoolchildren's ability to learn, the Camp Mariposa concept is particularly appreciated. Knowing that 95 percent of adult addicts first use drugs before they reach 20, Camp Mariposa tries to intervene.

Karen Moyer was in town Tuesday to spread the word about the foundation and seek support for its work. Making the rounds with her was former Gov. Ed Rendell, who acknowledged that fund-raising for any charitable cause can be a struggle in this economy. But this particular effort to help children deserves consideration.

The Moyer Foundation is a good vehicle for its namesake to give back to Philadelphia some of the love this city showed the Sellersville, Pa., native for five seasons, including the 2008 championship run.

Moyer, who had "Tommy John" elbow surgery in 2010, didn't pitch last year. But he has been signed by the Colorado Rockies, and if he makes the team, at age 49, he has a chance to become the oldest pitcher known to win a major-league game. Good luck!

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