Iowa’s Legislators Connect with Civility and Bipartisanship Thanks to Annual Softball Event

As the 2024 Legislative Session begins, it’s also time to begin thinking about the third annual Iowa Legislative Slow-Pitch Softball Game scheduled for Sunday, June 9. Earlier this fall, I had a chance to talk with a couple of the legislative organizers of the event, Iowa Senator Carrie Koelker (R) and Iowa Representative Sami Scheetz (D), to discuss the value of the event and the importance of bipartisanship during and after the legislative session.

About the Legislative Softball Game

A bipartisan event, the Iowa Legislative Slow-Pitch Softball Game at Principal Park in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) is a way to connect with lawmakers and see both sides of the aisle come together in a different environment, supporting civility and friendly competition while also benefiting local Greater Des Moines (DSM) causes. In 2023, these charitable organizations included Puppy Jake Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping veterans through assistance of service dogs, and the Iowa Food Bank Association, which supports Feeding America food banks. The game was a success, raising more than $50,000 and doubling its donations over the previous year.

The Iowa Legislative Slow-Pitch Softball Game took place about a month after legislative work came to an end, so people were able to gather together again after returning to their communities. While the event continued to be a fundraising success, the goal moving forward is to not only increase donations but generate more public interest and make sure the community feels they can be a part of the event wherever they live in Iowa.

Read about the 2023 Iowa Legislative Slow-Pitch Softball Game to learn more.

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