The DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation presented a $25,000 grant to East Hardy County Little League during the 2026 Little League World Series, a moment that highlighted the power of community‑driven sport.
Investing in Facilities and Futures
The funding will be directed toward safety upgrades, equipment purchases and the creation of a new Coach Pitch Division, giving more children the chance to play organized baseball and softball.
Liz DiLullo Brown, Little League Executive Vice President, praised the foundation’s commitment, noting that the grant arrives on Sports Matter Monday and reinforces the organization’s mission to broaden access to youth sports.
Casey Dunithan, President of East Hardy County Little League, explained that the grant not only improves fields but also cultivates work ethic, teamwork and a safe environment for the region’s youngsters.
Since its charter in 1980, the league has relied on volunteers to modernize its facilities, and the new investment builds on a decade‑long partnership that has seen the foundation pledge $500,000 over five years to support Little League initiatives.
The grant forms part of a $50,000 total infusion earmarked for Little League programs this year, a testament to the foundation’s ongoing dedication to nurturing the next generation of athletes and community leaders.