When Orioles manager Buck Showalter and his wife Angela arrived in Baltimore in 2010, they wanted to find a way to get involved in their new community off the field. Angela Showalter scoured for different charities before joining the board of KidsPeace, a charity that provides services for children in foster care and their families.
Now, the annual Trick or Trot 5K race is a yearly benefit event that has become synonymous with the Showalters themselves and the investment they’ve made locally.
This year’s race – which also includes a one-mile walk – will take place Saturday in downtown Baltimore. The event begins outside Camden Yards and the finish line is on the outfield warning track in center field.
“It’s been more impactful on our lives than anything else,” Buck Showalter said. “You realize the avenue or the venue you have and it’s about how we use our lives to impact others. When it’s all said and done, that’s really what it’s all going to be about, what you left behind, the impact on your own children and impacting other people’s lives.
"I don’t think we’ll ever – Angela and I feel the same way – be able to repay the impact that Baltimore’s had on our lives and our children. It’s not always take. … Bottom line, it’s the right thing to do. It’s got nothing to do about feeling better about yourself or whatever. It’s just the right thing to do.”
Over the years, the event has become one that brings Orioles fans together. Costumes are not only encouraged, but the best receive prizes, and several participants attend dressed in Orioles-themed garb.
Angela Showalter said that she’s always surprised by not only the reach they have but also the thanks her and Buck receive for being involved.
“It kind of shocks me when people [are] thanking us so much for being involved and they are so appreciative,” she said. “The kids tell you how much they appreciate you coming out and being a part [of it]. I guess that really shocked me because why wouldn’t you do that? That’s the way to be a part of the city and town you live in, to be involved.
"… And the people you’re supporting thank you, too, the kids in foster care and the foster care parents. … It’s such an easy task."
For more information on the race and to register, click here.