Swing for the Future
National Youth Development Park Initiative

Rendering of Baltimore's Youth Development Park at the Memorial Stadium site

The Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation is partnering with communities across America to design and facilitate the creation of Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation Youth Development Parks.  These unique multi-purpose turf, low maintenance facilities are designed to provide a cohesive recreational and educational experience for children, particularly in at-risk communities.

Many urban ball fields have experienced decades of abuse and neglect. Fields have become overrun with trash and are frequently used as a market place for various forms of criminal and delinquent activity.  With your help, the new ballparks will be shared with youth serving organizations and leagues providing a safe place for kids to play and learn.  Upon completion of the project, the parks are gifted to the youth serving partner so the children have access, ownership, and pride for their park.  The Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation will continue to have a presence at these fields and implement character education programming and clinics for youth. 

Baltimore, MD – minimum of 3 fields in partnership with the Y of Central MD, Boys & Girls Club of Metro Baltimore, Baltimore City Department of Recreation and Parks, and the Living Classrooms Foundation

Collier County, FL –in partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of Collier County

Fredericksburg, VA – in partnership with the City of Fredericksburg
Houston, TX – in partnership with SpringSpirit Baseball

Richmond, VA – in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond

Seattle, Washington – in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Snohomish County