Gloves for All

As we approach the end of 2023, it's important to celebrate our accomplishments and set our sights on the challenges awaiting us in 2024. This year, PIFBS has empowered over 207,000 kids globally to step onto the diamond. By distributing equipment grants to nearly 1200 youth organizations, we've fueled the growth of programs and expanded opportunities for play. In total, these grants included over 225,000 pieces of equipment, including over 25,000 gloves, valued at over $10 million! These milestones stand as a testament to the unwavering support from individuals like yourself, and we cannot thank you enough for your investment in our mission.

While we revel in the success of a 25% increase in our impact over the past year, the reality is that equipment shortages remain the primary obstacle preventing kids from participating in the game they love. Outfitting a youth player with the necessary gear comes with an average cost of $150, a financial hurdle that feels insurmountable for some families already grappling with providing basic necessities. This is where our mission becomes a lifeline, alleviating the financial strain on parents to provide these positive developmental opportunities for their kids, and enabling them to focus their energy on addressing their children's fundamental needs.

Your commitment to our cause is the catalyst for change. By investing in our mission, you directly contribute to the removal of barriers that hinder countless children from experiencing the benefits of safe play. As we stand on the brink of a new year, we invite you to join us in shaping the future of young athletes worldwide. Your support fuels our ability to foster physical, social, and emotional development in countless children. Let's continue our journey together in 2024, striving to amplify our impact and create lasting positive change on the diamond. Together, we can ensure that every child has the chance to swing for the fences and catch the thrill of the game. We invite you to be a part of a brighter, more inclusive future for the next generation of ballplayers.

Impact Stories:

Chicago Heat - Chicago, IL

This group based out of Chicago, provides around 50 inner-city kids the opportunity to play ball. Their founder shared a story specifically about one of their players that uses baseball as an escape from various challenges in his personal life: “Justin (9 years old) has been on his baseball team, the Chicago Heat, for the past three years. Earlier this year, Justin was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and was told by his doctors that he could never play baseball again. Soon after, the Chicago Heat received an equipment grant from PIFBS. Justin was so excited to help deliver the donated gear to his team. He still wanted to remain on the team in any way possible. He was even there for all practices, despite not being able to play. Later in the season, Justin was given the green light to return to baseball activities! While returning with limitations, Justin was given the support he needed from his baseball team during this tough time in his life.”

Herman J. Russell West End Academy - Atlanta, GA

At the beginning of the year, The Lady Bulldogs at Herman J. Russell West End Academy realized that someone had stolen all their softball gloves. With little to no budget for the softball program, they were unable to purchase any new gear on their own. The equipment grant from Pitch In For Baseball & Softball provided them with the much-needed softball gloves, as well as other equipment to keep their programming running. Franchesca Parker, Athletic Director for the school, noted, "Anytime that our students can benefit from donations, it is always a plus. Most of the students here are economically disadvantaged, so they may not be able to purchase new or gently used equipment with their parents. PIFBS also allowed the opportunity for us to add more girls to the team. This year has been the most amount of players on the team in the last 10 years."

Links:

• Read More About Our Impact Here