This summer, the DEA Educational Foundation (DEAEF) delivered a memorable experience for local youth with a week-long baseball program at Smith Park in Chicago’s Ukrainian Village. Running from August 5 to 10, the program, funded by the Geraty Family, successfully engaged 16 enthusiastic kids aged 8 to 14 in the joys of baseball.

Despite the sweltering humidity, the program thrived as kids gathered daily from 4:00 PM to 7:30 PM. The week culminated in an exciting scrimmage on Saturday morning, where participants showcased their new skills in an 8-on-8 scrimmage, demonstrating their progress and teamwork.

The program was led by Rick Zeitlin, Regional Director of the DEA Educational Foundation, who took on the role of coach. On the first day, Rick shared with the kids that he was a professional baseball player, challenging them to ask him what that meant by the end of the week. On the final day, Rick revealed that his dream to play baseball professionally was fueled by staying drug-free, making positive choices, and pursuing baseball as a passion. He encouraged the young athletes to dream big about their own aspirations, whether in baseball or other fields.

The program was well-received by the community. The park coordinator expressed excitement over the influx of youth activity on the park’s baseball diamonds, appreciating the vibrancy and engagement brought by the DEAEF program.

Rick’s grassroots approach to filling the program included distributing flyers at local recreation centers, successfully attracting a diverse group of participants. Among them was a swimmer who decided to join the program, and a newcomer to baseball who was so inspired by the experience that he signed up for fall baseball and now practices daily.

Each participant left with a baseball, bat, gloves, hats, and t-shirts, ensuring they were well-equipped to continue their baseball journey.

The DEA Educational Foundation is proud of the success of this summer program and looks forward to continuing to offer enriching experiences that inspire and engage youth in communities across the country.