In a testament to the power of belonging and community pride, the Ottumwa Little League is working on a transformative project that emphasizes youth development through baseball while revitalizing public spaces. With a mission rooted in good sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty, courage, and respect, the league is creating an environment where every child feels included and valued.
Driven by their commitment to instilling lifelong values in the young members of Ottumwa, the league’s project focuses on two vital aspects. Firstly, it addresses the need for repairs and improvements to the league’s grounds, including fencing and buildings. By enhancing the quality and safety of these public spaces, the Ottumwa Little League cultivates an atmosphere where teamwork and mutual respect thrive.
Secondly, the league aims to provide equal access to new equipment for all teams. This commitment ensures that every child, regardless of their skill level or financial means, can learn and practice the game safely while developing crucial sportsmanship and teamwork skills. By removing financial barriers, the Ottumwa Little League fosters a sense of pride and belonging among its young participants.
As the sole community baseball league option open to all youth in Ottumwa, the league plays an invaluable role in nurturing the aspirations of its 350 participants from diverse backgrounds in Wapello County. By providing a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment, the Ottumwa Little League offers a lifeline of opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable to these children.
To make this project possible, the league received $30,000 in grant dollars from the Ottumwa Legacy Foundation’s Bright Ideas Community Enrichment Fund and has also collaborated with local individuals.
The impact of this project is far-reaching, transcending the boundaries of baseball. By revitalizing the league’s grounds and providing new equipment, the Ottumwa Little League is actively promoting a sense of ownership and pride among the youth. By fostering a safe and welcoming environment, the league demonstrates that when children feel like they belong, they can flourish and learn important life lessons.
If you have innovative ideas and projects that can further enrich our community, we encourage you to submit your proposals today. The deadline for Bright Ideas Community Enrichment Fund grant applications is Friday, June 30th, at 5:00 p.m. Complete your application conveniently online at: https://www.ottumwalegacy.org/for-grantees-scholars/bright-ideas-community-enrichment-fund
