Recorded July, 2023
Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Craig Severtson of Flandreau, founder, and Sam Gotham, board member, of "Helping Kids Round First Base. How baseball (and softball) has opened the door to help kids in Nicaragua (and other 3rd world countries) with nutrition and even health care.
from their website: helpingkidsroundfirst.org
Life in Nicaragua is difficult, that's why we are here to help
Extreme Poverty
Nicaragua is the poorest country in Central America
Baseball is king
Like youth all around the world, kids grow up dreaming of playing in the big leagues
Lack of Resources
Few resources means few opportunities, and we are here to provide them
"We are training a group of young girls between 7-20 years old, some of them have had issues with domestic violence and drugs. Through softball they have found refuge to improve their lifestyle."
by Yahoska Rivas, Softball Coach
"The project has come to innovate and it has been great for the economy of our families and food security of the children. We are very grateful for the help, even despite the pandemic."
by Claudia Guillén, community resident
"All of the equipment and financial support has made it possible to help kids in Rivas. Without Helping Kids Round First, it wouldn't be possible for my players to reach their dreams."
by Johnny Alvarez - Coach,Working for a Dream Academy
"It's not just the community that benefits from the equipment but also the surrounding communities."
by Emperatrice Velasquez, Pastor of Lutheran Church