Business Details
21 Years
experience
Empowering Underserved Youth Through Baseball & Softball Programs
Friends of Baseball was founded in 2005 by an Oregon father, son, and Board of Trustees driven by their passion to give back to youth baseball and softball communities. The organization focuses on removing financial and social barriers for underserved youth through programs like the Full Count RBI Academy, Girls L.E.A.D Softball, and Diamond Dreams Scholarships. Partnering with Major League Baseball and Nike, they provide equipment, field improvements, and mentorship training while serving over 40,000 children since inception.Their work combines sports with academic enrichment and socio-emotional development, emphasizing inclusivity and community impact. With a dedicated team of coaches and partners, they operate in Portland Metro and Seattle areas, offering accessible programming for historically underserved populations.
Services
Full Count RBI Academy
Girls L.E.A.D Softball
Baseball Academy Training
Fellowship Program
Diamond Dreams Scholarships
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- 20 years of experience providing baseball access programs since 2005
- Official MLB Nike RBI Affiliate with industry partnerships
- Provided $5.1 million in programming and resources since inception
- Offers culturally responsive coach training and mentorship programs
- Serves 40,000+ youth with Portland Metro and Seattle area programs
Associations and certifications
- MLB Nike RBI Affiliate
Services
Full Count RBI Academy
This baseball-inspired enrichment program combines academic learning with physical activity for youth aged 5-18. Participants develop sports fundamentals while engaging in curriculum covering science, math, and nutrition. The program emphasizes positive self-identity through mentorship and provides equipment kits including gloves and bats to ensure accessibility for underserved communities.
Girls L.E.A.D Softball
This initiative provides softball training combined with leadership development for girls aged 12-18. Participants learn sports fundamentals while exploring career opportunities through guest speakers and field trips. The program specifically targets underrepresented communities, with over 80% of participants from Black, Indigenous, or communities of color.
Diamond Dreams Scholarships
This financial assistance program helps remove economic barriers to sports participation for youth aged 8-18. The initiative covers league fees, equipment costs, and tournament expenses for baseball and softball programs. It addresses the national trend of 3.5 million children losing sports access due to financial constraints.
FOB Fellowship Program
This paid career development program trains high school and college students in sports leadership and community engagement. Participants gain professional experience through mentorship opportunities and networking events while learning program management skills. The initiative partners with culturally responsive trainers for enhanced learning.
Equipment Distribution
Friends of Baseball provides essential sports equipment to underserved athletes and community programs. The initiative distributes gloves, bats, helmets, and protective gear to ensure equitable access to baseball and softball activities. This program supports both individual players and local leagues serving economically disadvantaged populations.
People
Aaron Dickson
Executive Director
Portland native and former athlete with over a decade of nonprofit experience. Focuses on creating enrichment programs for underserved youth through sports. Former Grant High School athlete and Portland State University graduate who believes in sports' power to transform lives.
Lucas Hunter
Program Manager
Portland-born former professional player with Miami Marlins. Transferred playing experience to youth coaching and mentorship. Focuses on skill development and community engagement through baseball programs. Alumni of Central Catholic High School and University of Portland.
Ciera Jones
Softball Programs Coordinator
Former Division I scholarship athlete with expertise in youth sports research. Focuses on removing geographic barriers to sports access. Currently completing doctorate in Physical Culture & Sports Studies while coaching at Clark College.
Ben Longcor
Co-Founder & Treasurer
Lifelong baseball enthusiast who co-founded Friends of Baseball with his father. Former first baseman and current rec-league player. Communications professional with Pacific Lutheran University degree who transitioned to nonprofit work and insurance.
Gabe Chase
Board President
Northeast Portland native and former Grant High School PIL champion. Played in Japan and returned to Oregon for law school. Current attorney and youth sports coach with deep community ties. Leads board governance and strategic direction.
Questions
What youth programs does Friends of Baseball offer?
We offer Full Count RBI Academy, Girls L.E.A.D Softball, Baseball Academy Training, Fellowship Programs, and Diamond Dreams Scholarships for youth aged 5-18.
How can my child join a program?
Register through our website for Full Count RBI Academy membership to access all programs, including free enrollment in Short Hops Kids Club and Rip City Kids Club.
Do you provide sports equipment assistance?
Yes, we distribute gloves, bats, helmets, and protective gear through our equipment donation program to ensure equitable sports access.
Are scholarships available for sports programs?
Our Diamond Dreams Scholarship Program provides financial assistance for league fees, equipment, and tournament costs to economically disadvantaged athletes.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Portland Metro and Seattle areas, focusing on communities with historically underserved populations.
How does the Fellowship Program work?
This paid opportunity provides career development, professional networking, and mentorship for high school and college students interested in sports leadership.
