Award will support the C.A.L. (Character, Athletics, Leadership) Community Baseball Program; a project from the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, assist kids from disadvantaged backgrounds in finding a path

The Cal Ripken Foundation will provide youth in elementary, middle, and high school with character building, leadership training, and resistance to drugs using baseball as a means to instill the values of responsibility, respect, integrity and hard work. The goals and objectives will address the protective factors of physical safety, supportive relationships and a sense of belonging through on the field and camp opportunities. Youth will be provided clear expectations regarding the prohibition of drugs, alcohol and tobacco in pre-camp presentations that include parents and youth. Performance measures will include the number of youth served and the number of coaches trained.NCA/NCF

Since June 2003, the C.A.L. (Character, Athletics, Leadership) Community Baseball/Softball Program, a project of the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation (CRSF), has provided a 'big league' experience for thousands of disadvantaged youth. Using the hook of baseball/softball the C.A.L. Program addresses the need for recreational outlets in targeted cities across the country and provides assistance to youth-serving organizations to develop and expand baseball/softball programs and teach youth how to make healthy life choices. The program engages youth in the joy of the game while it employs delinquency-preventative measures including physical education/activity, access to team sports, education about the dangers of drug, alcohol and tobacco use; and encouragement to establish affirming peer companionship, healthy social interaction and a positive connection to community.
NCA/NCF