Helping America's underserved children rise to find their individual greatness through no-cost programming
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide resources and no-cost programming in America’s most socioeconomically challenged neighborhoods with camps, clinics, combines, gear distribution, scholarships, mental health and sports performance support, violence prevention and STEM/educational support.
Our support will level the playing field for minority and underserved children and allow them a chance to follow their dreams.
the jerry ford Grow the Game Fund
In 2021, Rise 2 Greatness launched a program dedicated to providing opportunities for baseball and softball players from the many underserved communities across America.
This fund is a partnership of Rise 2 Greatness, current and former MLB players and corporate partners from across America.
If you know of a player in need of financial assistance to attend a showcase or to offset the expense of travel baseball/softball, please invite them to fill out an application here.
To donate to the Grow the Game Fund, text “GrowTheGame” to 41444 or click the button below.
The Jerry Ford Grow the Game Fund Provides
- Increased access to baseball and softball for underserved and minority players
- Free youth camps across America as the entry into baseball/softball
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Funding for youth players to enter programming right in their neighborhoods
- Gear packages for underserved athletes
- Financial assistance for players to attend showcases and tournaments of their choice and sponsorship to remove entry barriers and expense of travel baseball/softball
- Partnerships with like-minded individuals and organizations with shared missions
EVENTS
rise 2 greatness combine series
The Rise 2 Greatness Combine Series is an invite-only no-cost combine event to level the playing field for athletes ages 8-17. Our combines allow minority and underserved athletes to showcase their talents in front of coaches and scouts. The Combine Series is a partnership of Rise 2 Greatness, current and former MLB players, community leaders and corporate partners from across America.
GROW THE GAME FREE YOUTH BASEBALL/SOFTBALL CAMPS
Rise 2 Greatness works with community partners and sponsors to create lifelong fans by introducing over 500 children each camp to the games of baseball and softball, cultivating positive memories on the field, and providing hands-on instruction from current and former Major League Baseball players and local high school and collegiate athletes. Following a camp, we look for sustainable ways to continue our investment in the local baseball and softball community.
celebrity softball game
Star-studded mash-up of professional athletes and celebrities, including former MLB and NFL players, with proceeds benefitting the Jerry Ford Grow the Game Fund for underserved youth across America. Celebrities pass down their wisdom to the next generation during our Grow the Game Youth Baseball/Softball Camp prior to the game, selecting four camp participants to compete in a youth home run derby. Set to return in 2024.
celebration of greatness and fore the kids celebrity charity golf tournament
Celebrating greatness in and around baseball and philanthropy and enjoying a day on the golf course while raising funds for children from America’s underserved communities through The Jerry Ford Grow the Game Fund.
Quinby Kids League
A free city-wide kids baseball league in honor of Bill Quinbys lifelong service to the children of Cedar Rapids.
News
Rise 2 Greatness Foundation Announces 2023 Celebration of Greatness Gala Honorees
Rise 2 Greatness Foundation and Sports Facilities Companies Provide Baseball and Softball Playing Opportunities for All by Hosting Free Instructional Camp in Conjunction with the SEC Baseball Tournament for 500 Alabama Youth
