TRI-VALLEY – Local Little Leaguers, as well as those from around the world, will be the first to benefit from a new Three Valley’s Community Foundation (3VCF) project aimed at empowering youth in the Tri-Valley.
The non-profit organization based in Pleasanton works to strengthen communities in the Tri-Valley and greater Bay Area by connecting donors and nonprofits with those looking to give back to the community in myriad ways.
3VCF’s latest venture is the NextGen Fund, which is designed to support diverse area programs focused on enrichment, wellness, leadership, the arts, civic engagement and youth-led philanthropy, while also recognizing young individuals making a difference in their communities.
“In today’s philanthropic landscape, youth-serving organizations are often overlooked or underfunded,” 3VCF CEO/President Kelly Bowers said. “The NextGen Fund is our commitment to reversing that trend — amplifying youth voices, supporting organizations that serve them and encouraging the philanthropic spirit of young people themselves.”
The initial NextGen Fund initiative is the Little League International Intermediate World Series (LLIWS), an acclaimed youth baseball tournament held annually at Max Baer Park in Livermore. This legacy event brings together teams and families from around the world, not only celebrating young athletes but also reflecting Little League’s mission to develop character, courage and loyalty in youth through teamwork, sportsmanship and community.
To kickstart the NextGen Fund, Bowers said, all donations received between now and Aug. 30 will go to support the LLIWS and its continued success as a youth-development experience and global celebration of sportsmanship and connection.
3VCF will boost the newly established fund by supporting local hospitality efforts, tournament amenities and community-building activities to enhance the overall experience.
“This is more than just a tournament,” LLIWA tournament director Bill Aboumrad said. “It’s a community builder and a life-shaping opportunity for hundreds of young athletes. We are grateful that 3VCF recognizes its impact and has chosen LLIWS as the inaugural youth program recipient of the NextGen Funds.
“The groundswell of support we receive from our community is what makes this event truly special — not just for the players, but for their families and fans from around the world. Livermore has become a second home for this global event, and this fund helps us continue to offer a world-class experience.”
The NextGen Fund will consider youth-centric grant funding inquiries on a rolling basis, conducting reviews quarterly or biannually based on available resources. During this process, Bowers said, priority will be given to initiatives that center on youth development, leadership and empowerment. To ensure meaningful contributions, the fund will focus on initiatives that demonstrate measurable impacts on youth within 3VCF’s geographic region.
In conjunction with the NextGen Fund, 3VCF will also be sponsoring the Young Philanthropist Award, recognizing local youth (or youth-led efforts) who are making a powerful impact through nonprofit volunteer service, charitable giving or nonprofit leadership. The first 3VCF Young Philanthropist Award will be presented during the 25th annual Tri-Valley Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Fellowship Breakfast, which 3VCF will host on Jan. 26 at the Palm Event Center in the Vineyard.
To donate to the NextGen Fund, visit www.3vcf.org, click on DONATE and go directly to the donation portal, or email info@3vcf.org. Donors wishing to support the Little League International Intermediate World Series through the fund should designate LLIWS under additional notes and contribute by Aug. 30.
For LLIWS sponsorship opportunities and options, download this sponsorship packet or contact Stephnee Leathers at stephneeleathers@gmail.com.
Now in its 12th year, the Little League International Intermediate (50/70) World Series is held annually. This year’s version is set for July 27-Aug. 3, with games played by 13-year-olds on a field between the size of a Little League diamond and a full-size layout.
The tournament welcomes 12 teams — six from across the United States (including a host team from California’s District 57) and six international qualifiers — competing in U.S. and International pools. Last year, District 57’s Livermore Little League team delivered an impressive performance, advancing to the semifinals.
Danville Little League will represent District 57 this year. For the full tournament schedule, visit bit.ly/44wufq0