The following appeared as a lead article on Baseballdigest.com. I had the chance this past summer to meet and spend time with Steve Pindar, the founder of Roberto’s Kids.
Written by: Christopher Wenrich on 7th September 2010
Roberto Clemente’s life was cut short at the young age of 38 in a tragic aviation accident on December 31, 1972. Clemente was on his way to Nicaragua to deliver aid to earthquake victims. Many remember Clemente for being a tremendous baseball player; more importantly, he was a tremendous human being. Clemente believed in making a difference in the lives of others. He once said, “Any time you have an opportunity to make a difference in this world and you don’t, then you are wasting your time on Earth.”
Clemente would be very proud to know his compassion and philanthropic values are alive today. The organization known as “Roberto’s Kids” continues to walk in Clemente’s footsteps, bringing baseball and smiles to children everywhere. Roberto’s Kids works with baseball leagues, charitable organizations, individuals and retailers in the United States , Canada and Latin American countries. Their collection drives enable children to play baseball with new or gently-worn equipment. Their charitable efforts not only bring baseball to children, but also a sense of community and togetherness into their lives.
Roberto’s Kids founder Stephen Pindar and his family observed children in the Dominican Republic playing baseball with broomsticks for bats, rocks for bases and rolled-up cloth from discarded dress hems for balls. Thanks to Roberto’s Kids, these children can play baseball with real equipment and have a sense of community and togetherness. Roberto’s Kids have a positive impact on the lives of others.
Roberto’s Kids has done a wonderful job of preserving Clemente’s legacy and bringing joy to children. To learn more about how you may help, visit https://www.robertos-kids.org/index.html.
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