Over 250 Boston philanthropists and sports fans came together at the Revere Hotel for the annual Pitching in for Kids‘ All-Star Comedy Celebration and Auction.

Pitching in for Kids is a charitable organization dedicated to providing grants designed to improve the lives of children across New England via child-specific needs, projects, or programs.

While past years have focused primarily on Red Sox players headlining the event, this year New England Patriots star Devin McCourty was a welcome addition to the host lineup that included former Red Sox captain Jason Varitek and right fielder Mookie Betts. Red Sox teammates David “Big Papi” Ortiz, Dustin Pedroia, and Joe Kelley also were in attendance to show their support.

Sports journalist and newscaster Steve Burton emceed the event along with comedian alum Tony V and Lenny Clarke. As per usual, the comedy lineup was met with laughs and was especially buoyed by Chelsey Lately regular comedian Josh Wolf who got the crowd rolling on the floor laughing.

Throughout the evening guests enjoyed food tastings courtesy of Regina Pizzeria, Massimino’s Cucina Italiana, Capitol Grille and more, plus a top shelf open bar. This certainly helped patrons open their wallets as auctioneer Dan McLaughlin helped raise over $100,000 for the organization and made the night a smashing success.

As I say every year, this is one of the best Boston charity events that you will simply not want to miss. When else will you get to sit within arm’s reach of Mookie Betts and behind Big Papi and Dustin Pedroia and it be all for the kids?

Happy Pitching In,

Jenicka

Photos by Rick Bern of Rick Bern Photography and by Socially Superlative