The CAN DO Community Foundation, at a recent meeting, received a final closeout report from Nancy Stasko on the initial phase of the reclamation of the Little League practice fields at the Correale Stadium complex located at 11th and Monges streets.

The practice fields continually experienced rainwater runoff during severe storms. The runoff would erode and wash away the top soil and turf, leaving the fields unsuitable for use.

CAN DO Community Foundation was asked to become involved and, over the years, teamed up with Hazleton Little League, the City of Hazleton, Hazle Township and CAN DO to improve the fields needed to meet the increased demand for kids having a desire to learn to play baseball. Working in collaboration with these partners, phase one has been completed. The Foundation’s model is to “adopt” a project and work with partners to secure funding and donated services to accomplish a project.

correale stadiumPhase one involved creating the overall master plan, which was developed by Barry Isett & Associates, to complete the restoration of the four practice fields and further develop the fields in future phases.

The project included the installation of piping and storm water inlets. The piping guides the stormwater to the lowest tier where a stormwater management was established. Substantial excavation was involved that included stormwater detention basins as well as removing rock outcroppings. Also included was installing fencing and backstop, cutting an access road and installing modified stone.

The project was realized with well over $100,000 in funding and donated services, Funding sources included the Greenways, Trail and Recreation program and Local Share Account funds from the Commonwealth and Hazleton Community Development funds.

The Hazleton City Authority and Greater Hazleton Sewer Authority provided in-kind services for initial digging, grading and test pits. Franzosa Trucking and Barry Isett & Associates volunteered additional services to complete the project.

The Foundation is the philanthropic arm of CAN DO, Greater Hazleton’s community based economic development organization. Twenty-five years ago, the CAN DO Community Foundation was founded as the organization to carry out CAN DO’s intention of improving the quality of life in the communities it serves. This organization, initially funded with seed money from CAN DO, has grown through the generosity of donors to its annual fund drive along with donations of real estate and bequeathed endowments. The Foundation leverages these funds through the application of funding through other foundations and governmental programs as well as receiving in-kind services volunteered to accomplish a project. The Foundation created a unique model to carry out its mission of “Conservation, Preservation and Reclamation CPR – Breathing New life into the Community.” The Foundation partners or “adopts” a project with nonprofit organizations to support a focused project that meets its mission. Scholarships have also been endowed.

For more information, visit www.candocommunityfoundation.com or contact Nancy Stasko at 570-455-1508 or at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..