[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.22″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.10″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]
The Players Alliance teamed up with MLB to support L.E.A.D., a youth baseball program co-founded by C.J. Stewart and Kelli Stewart. CJ Stewart is an Atlanta-based, retired player and trainer of both Jason Heyward and Dexter Flower has committed to providing the same training he provided to the two greats to inner-city Middle Schoolers. Due to the rising cost of gasoline, families served by LEAD struggle to afford even a “free” program because gas prices eliminate their ability to have activities beyond home and school. LEAD has stepped up and provided transportation to and from school along with afterschool meals and even haircuts when needed.
However, the added costs resulted in a recent need to reduce the number of youth able to participate in the program. The Players Alliance in Partnership with Major League Baseball wanted to help LEAD and the families it serves by providing new gear for the middle school players. In addition, The Players Alliance surprised the founders of the program with a $150,000 grant to help with fuel costs getting to and from practice.
The Players Alliance wanted to support LEAD to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier. Partnering to help the next generation of Black baseball players pays homage to two of Jackie Robinson’s 9 Values, Teamwork and Giving Back to Others.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://www.playersalliance.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/TPAxLEAD2_sm.jpg” title_text=”TPAxLEAD2_sm” _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]