At Bat, Inc.

In 2015, African American representation in the Major League Baseball (MLB) association had dropped to 9.8%. This decline encouraged Founder and Executive Director Delrisha Hayes to start the nonprofit At Bat. At Bat was created in November 2015, with a mission to increase the number of at-risk youth that participate in baseball and softball. (The organization defines at-risk as a child whose household income is 200% below the federal poverty level). At Bat programs include, After-school program: In collaboration with local public and/or private schools and community organizations, students participate in a baseball program at their school or a community center near their school. The program is designed to support students with academic enrichment by integrating STEM education into baseball activities and delivering a quality sports program that students look forward to participating in to encourage school attendance. Camp: One whole week dedicated to learning baseball fundamentals. Youths spend two and a half hours each day working on their throwing, catching, hitting, and fielding skills. At the same time, on the last day of camp, youth engage in a scrimmage against their peers. The scrimmage allows youth to practice their newly learned baseball skills and test their understanding. Clinic: A one-day event that allows youth to sport sample baseball and/or softball. Each clinic focuses on one baseball or softball skill (i.e., throwing, hitting, catching, pitching, and fielding). Summer Program (half-day): The program solely focuses on helping youth better understand baseball by teaching them the fundamentals and engaging them in fun baseball games against their peers. Summer Program (full day): Dedicated programming focused on youth academic education and physical and mental health. Youth spend the morning practicing classroom lessons focused on math, science, and reading comprehension. In the afternoon, youth are bused to a local baseball field near the program site to practice baseball fundamentals and engage in three to five-inning baseball games with fellow program participants.

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