Rebuilding Los Angeles Softball Communities
THOUSAND OAKS, California. (January 29, 2025) – Rawlings Sporting Goods, Easton Diamond Sports, The DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation, California Strong, the Southeast Ventura County YMCA, and SidelineSwap have joined forces to launch a new initiative for local athletes impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires. Their goal is to raise funds and replace lost baseball and softball gear for affected communities.
Easton has had strong ties to the greater Los Angeles community since first establishing itself in the San Fernando Valley in the 1960s before moving to Thousand Oaks in 2016. The company has also been a partner of California Strong since its inception in 2018.
“In times like these, it is not about what we should do, but what we can do to lift up those affected by the devastating fires,” said Ron Ostrowski, President & CEO of Rawlings Sporting Goods Co., Inc.
We often turn to sports for hope and healing during challenging times. Something as simple as returning to the field to play the game you love can mean the world. This is why everyone at Rawlings and Easton is proud to join with California Strong and the YMCA to help uplift and rebuild our local baseball and softball communities.”
The participating organizations aim to raise $100,000 in funds to create grants for families and organizations impacted by the fires. The DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation has already contributed $25,000 to this effort. In addition, every dollar donated will be matched by Rawlings & Easton in the form of baseball and softball equipment—including bats, gloves, and catcher’s gear—for those who have lost their equipment due to the fires.
“Our goal at California Strong is to provide both immediate and long-term support for those impacted by the LA fires,” said California Strong Co-Founder and former Major League Baseball player Ryan Braun.
So far, we have provided new items to over 400 individuals and families, supported first responders, and started check distributions for those who have applied. Working with Rawlings and Easton, we will continue to build upon what we have already accomplished. The funds we raise together will allow for continued support in the months and years to come.”
Rawlings, Easton, and California Strong are committed to supporting those affected by the fires in the greater Los Angeles area. In addition to fundraising, they are organizing a special equipment replacement event where Rawlings and Easton will distribute new baseball and softball equipment to players who lost their gear due to the wildfires.
Event Details:
- Saturday, February 8, 2025
- Cheviot Hills Pony Baseball Fields, Los Angeles
The community is encouraged to participate by donating new or gently used sports equipment at the event. SidelineSwap will process all contributions, with proceeds directed to the CA Fire Relief Fund.
“Many families continue to face immense challenges following the devastation,” said Ronnie Stone, President/CEO of the Southeast Ventura County YMCA. We believe that providing baseball and softball equipment can offer a small measure of comfort and hope. We hope that by returning to the field, even for a short time, these children can experience a sense of normalcy and joy amidst difficult circumstances.”
Community Impact & Support
Youth baseball and softball officials in the Pacific Palisades and Altadena areas have reported that over 250 families enrolled in local organizations have been severely impacted by the fires.
“We are grateful for everyone at Rawlings, Easton, and now California Strong, for their long-standing support of our league,” said Phillip Polleran, President of Central Altadena Little League.
What they are doing to help our baseball and softball communities bounce back from these devastating fires with equipment and financial donations will go a long way toward getting our kids back on the field and back to the games they love.”
“These fires have destroyed so much of our community,” said Bob Benton, Commissioner of Palisades Pony Baseball Association.” We are incredibly thankful that Rawlings, Easton, and California Strong are supporting the children affected by these devastating fires.
It is so important not to forget how much their lives have changed over the past few weeks. Helping them get back on the field with their friends and teammates is a key step in restoring normalcy and providing them with peace in the game they love.”
Rawlings, Easton, The DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation, California Strong, and the Southeast Ventura County YMCA remain committed to supporting the local baseball and softball communities.
Stay Updated! Follow Rawlings, Easton, and California Strong for upcoming events and donation opportunities.
To donate and learn more, visit: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/vf/RAWLINGS
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