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DES MOINES, Iowa — Opening day for the Iowa Cubs was three weeks ago, but in the shadows of Principal Park, kids with the Kiwanis Miracle League finally got to take the field.

The Kiwanis Miracle League brings kids with special needs together with volunteer “buddies” who help them hit, run, and play the field.

It started back in 2008 with six teams and 60 kids. Seven years later, there are 14 teams and 250 kids.

Games are every Saturday, May through June, and late August through October.

Organizers say volunteers get as much out of the games as the players.

“It’s all about acceptance, and including others, and realizing these kids are just like anyone else. These kids just want to play and have a good time. They know how to smile and who cares if they bat a little differently,” said Jan Burch, president of the Kiwanis Miracle League.

The Kiwanis Miracle League is always looking for volunteers and never turns new kids away from playing.

Kids must be at least 5-years-old to play.

For more information on how to get involved, visit the link below.

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