Sensational St. Louis Shortstop Set to Speak at Charity Event

The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865, with a commitment to serving all those in need. With large private donations, generous philanthropy, and small offerings given to their iconic Red Kettle bell ringers around the holidays, the nonprofit has helped nearly 27.5 million people in the U.S. overcome economic hardships through a range of social services.

First-ballot MLB Hall of Fame inductee and St. Louis Cardinals standout Ozzie Smith has been selected as the keynote speaker for the Salvation Army’s 2025 “Hope Has an Army” fundraiser on September 25 in downtown Peoria, Illinois.

“The Wizard,” as he was famously nicknamed, was a legendary player during his 19-year MLB career with the St. Louis Cardinals. Smith won the Gold Glove Award at shortstop for 13 consecutive seasons, was selected to 15 MLB All-Star Games, and accumulated 2,460 career hits along with 580 stolen bases. He played a key role in the Cardinals’ 1982 World Series championship.

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The specific chapter putting on this event, The Women’s Auxiliary of Peoria, directly works to support the larger Salvation Army mission year-round in a variety of ways. The event will take place at Venue Chisca with a silent auction, dinner, and Smith closing out the evening with his presentation.

The funds generated from the benefit will assist people in the Peoria and Tazewell County areas who are struggling to feed their families or put a roof over their heads.

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