KINGWOOD – Every year Preston Little League helps bring joy to approximately 525 local youths, ages 4-18, by organizing baseball and softball programs throughout Preston County, according to Kate Beadle, corporate responsibility analyst for State Farm.
As a nonprofit, Preston Little League, which became official in 2015, has to rely on fundraising activities and donations to operate the leagues and create a safe and fun environment.
Last year, the League lost its usual channels of fundraising activities due to COVID 19.
Local State Farm Agent Ray Thompson said he is launching a campaign to help Preston Little League. Thompson pledged to make a $10 donation for each request for a new home or auto insurance quote he receives during April. He said he would like to see others step forward and also support the league.
“No purchase is necessary,” Thomson said. “All you have to do is call in and get a quote.”
He said the $10 donations are his way to give back to the community. He said his boys were involved in Preston County youth baseball leagues for many years, and he understands the vital role youth sports has in the community.
“It was a great outlet for our children. I feel it’s extremely important for our county youth to have a safe, fun recreational activity available,” Thompson said. “I believe sports are a great way to teach good sportsmanship, teamwork, and leadership skills. I feel it’s more important than ever to return our youth to some sort of normalcy and get them involved in activities.”
“Due to the COVID pandemic, our league was not able to participate in our usual fundraisers. The money being donated from Ray Thompson at State Farm is greatly appreciated, and will help us to rebuild from the monetary loss,” said Kristen Adams, president of Preston Little League.
She said the donations will be used for the general running of the league and purchasing equipment and uniforms.
Opening day for Preston Little League is May 1. Adams invited the community to attend the games.
“The kids love to have people watch their games,” she said “They are held countywide at local ball fields.”
She said anyone who would like to donate to the Preston Little League can do so by contacting their local board president via Preston Little League on Facebook.
New customers can call Thompson’s State Farm office at 304-329-3387 for a quote or to make an appointment to stop by the office at 436 E Main St. in Kingwood. Be sure to mention the Preston Little League.
TWEET@DominionPostWV
