ST. MARY’S COUNTY, Md. — The Clements Cuties Foundation marked another record year as the longtime Southern Maryland nonprofit raised $343,706 after expenses during its 2025 fundraising season. The funds were presented on Sunday, Nov. 23, to three local families, each receiving $99,552 to assist children currently undergoing leukemia treatment.
The organization, now in its 13th year, continues its mission of providing direct financial relief and community support to families in St. Mary’s, Calvert and Charles counties facing pediatric cancer or severe illness. Each year’s total is divided evenly among that year’s selected families, helping cover medical costs, travel, loss of income and day-to-day expenses that accumulate during intensive treatment.
“At the end of the day, $99,000 is a lot of money, but it’s a drop in the bucket for what these families have to go through,” said Ricky Ryce, president of the Clements Cuties Foundation.
A Southern Maryland Tradition With Deep Roots
Founded by a group of local softball players in the early 1970s, the Clements Cuties began as a small charity game with players dressing in women’s clothing to raise money for community causes. After the tradition faded in the 1980s, it was revived around 2012 and later shifted its mission toward supporting children battling life-threatening illnesses.
“I saw a little sign in Leonardtown,” said Ryce. “They were doing a fundraiser for a young boy, Nolan Scully, who had cancer. When I saw that sign, it hit me. I said, this is what we need to be doing — raising money for these kids.”
The organization’s signature event, the Clements Cuties Softball Showdown, continues to draw strong community support. The 2025 game was held on Saturday, Sept. 13, at Cryer’s Back Road Inn.
A Network of Support for Families
Beyond fundraising, the Clements Cuties help connect families with other nonprofit partners, including groups that renovate children’s bedrooms or provide specialized experiences for kids in treatment. Many parents continue to remain involved, forming peer networks with families newly facing diagnosis.
“We’re not only out there having a good time putting smiles on these kids’ faces, we’re trying to be a support system to these families too,” Ryce said.
Scholarships Honor Children Lost Too Soon
In addition to supporting current families, the foundation maintains eight annual high school scholarships honoring seven children who have passed away and a former member. Each scholarship is valued at $2,500, continuing the organization’s commitment to long-term community impact.
The Clements Cuties Foundation serves children across Southern Maryland and identifies future recipients through community referrals.
Families, supporters and local organizations wishing to contribute or partner with the group can visit clementscuties.org for donation options and upcoming updates.
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