James L. Easton (1935-2023) spent his life committed to growing sporting opportunities for children around the world. A longtime supporter of Little League® International, Mr. Easton and the Easton Foundations have provided direct support to the organization since the Foundation was established in 2007. In celebration of Mr. Easton’s legacy and the trust he placed in the Little League program to provide exceptional experiences for all boys and girls, Little League International is proud to announce that the Easton Foundations has made a grant donation totaling more than $7 million to assist with facility enhancements to the Little League World Series facility and fan experience, bolstering the organization’s social impact and grant programs and offering volunteer training opportunities.
“Little League International is honored that Mr. Easton, his family, and the Easton Foundations have placed their trust in our organization, as we look to impact children and communities around the world,” said Patrick Wilson, Little League President and CEO. “With this long-term commitment and support, we will be able to enhance the Little League World Series complex, provide unparalleled training for our volunteers, and provide new grant opportunities for our leagues and communities, while celebrating Mr. Easton’s legacy.”
The Easton Foundations has been a longtime supporter of Little League International, most recently supporting the installation of three new videoboards at the Little League Baseball® World Series Complex in 2018, as well as previous contributions for scoreboards at Little League’s five U.S. region facilities. In 2022, Little League International recognized Mr. Easton’s contributions and support with the Peter O’Malley Distinguished Little League Ambassador Award. In addition to his support of Little League, Mr. Easton was a member of the International Olympic Committee from 1995 to 2006 and was passionate about growing the sport of archery and making it more accessible for all.
“The Easton Sports Development Foundation is honored to be a long-time contributor to Little League International and looks forward to supporting Little League International’s continued growth,” said Caren Sawyer, Easton Foundations Executive Director.
This landmark gift marks one of the most significant investments to Little League International’s Philanthropy and Social Impact efforts to date. As the most trusted organization in youth sports, Little League International believes in bringing the benefits of participation to as many children and communities as possible. In recent years, Little League International has established grant programs that support registration fee assistance, equipment grants, volunteer training programs, and assistance after natural disasters. As a mission-based, non-profit leader in the youth sports industry, Little League International is committed to continuing to innovate and enhance the exceptional Little League experience for all children, so that boys and girls can learn the valuable life lessons.
In addition to the more than 40 years of support both personally by Mr. Easton and through the Easton Foundations, Easton Baseball/Softball which he sold in 2006, and parent company, Rawlings Sporting Goods, also serves as the “Official Team Equipment Supplier” of Little League. Each year, the organization provides equipment donations to all the participants at both the Little League Baseball and Softball World Series tournaments, providing an equitable opportunity to each of the competing teams.
To learn more about Little League’s Philanthropy and Social Impact, visit LittleLeague.org/Impact.