Gear It Forward Helps Local Young Athletes Overcome Barriers to Youth Sports

A local nonprofit is helping remove financial barriers for young athletes across the Coachella Valley by providing free equipment and coaching opportunities.

Gear It Forward was founded by Yvonne and Gracie after realizing many families struggle to afford the costs associated with youth sports. The idea began when Yvonne donated her son’s baseball gear and saw firsthand how much of a need existed in the community.

The organization provides equipment and support for young athletes who may otherwise miss out on opportunities to participate.

“For me, it’s important because as a child I didn’t have as much support for sports,” Yvonne said. “My parents worked a lot and they barely had time to be able to do this extracurricular activity.”

Parents say the program has become a game changer, while coaches say having the right equipment can help kids build confidence, create friendships, and learn teamwork.

“It gives the opportunity for kids to not really worry about financially not being able to play and not even making that a factor, and still getting the chance to play,” one supporter said.

Donations can be dropped off at Sluggers Training Facility in Indio or at other locations listed on the Gear It Forward website.

The nonprofit’s long-term goal is to open a community center and food pantry to help support local families both on and off the field.

The founders say the mission is about giving children the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in sports — and in life.

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