Where Preparation Creates Opportunity

NEWS & UPDATES

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Welcome to The PrepStep Project

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PrepStep Training Academy winter clinic registration is now open!

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Welcome to The PrepStep Project | PrepStep Training Academy winter clinic registration is now open! |

  • Our Vision

    We envision a future where every young person has access to quality baseball programs that develop their skills, character, and confidence, while fostering strong communities and revitalized spaces for generations to come.

  • Our Mission

    To advance youth development in Baltimore through expanded access to organized sports, restored and reinvested play spaces, and mentorship grounded in social emotional learning. We create safe, structured environments where young youth grow as athletes and as leaders, supported by community who champion their potential.

  • Our Purpose

    The PrepStep Project started with a simple idea: sports can be a powerful pathway to opportunity. Baltimore’s youth, especially those from underserved neighborhoods, often lack access to the guidance, safe spaces, and programs needed to reach their full potential.

    We provide structured, inclusive programming that develops athletic skills, strengthens character, and fosters social-emotional growth. Through baseball and other youth sports, mentorship, and educational initiatives, we create spaces where kids can build confidence, resilience, teamwork, and leadership.

An Opportunity Seen

Across the country, many young people face barriers to participating in organized sports, missing out on opportunities to develop athletic skills, confidence, and social-emotional growth. Studies show that only about half of youth ages 6–17 regularly participate in organized sports, with participation rates even lower in underserved communities.

Limited access to safe playing spaces, affordable programs, and consistent mentorship prevents many children from experiencing the benefits of sport. Research demonstrates that youth involved in organized athletics gain better physical health, improved mental wellbeing, stronger teamwork skills, and higher levels of resilience, while those without access often miss out on these critical developmental opportunities.

This gap represents a significant challenge: without equitable access to sports and mentorship programs, many young people are left without the guidance, structure, and support they need to thrive—both on the field and in life.

The PrepStep Principles

We’re guided by simple but powerful truths — that every kid deserves a chance, that every community has potential, and that real change starts with people who care enough to show up. Our principles keep us grounded in that mission. They remind us to coach with heart, lead with purpose, and build programs that lift youth and communities together. Everything we do — from practice plans to partnerships — starts here.

  • Baseball is more than a game — it’s a way to grow. Every practice and drill builds confidence, resilience, and life skills that extend beyond the field, helping kids thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally.

  • Strong players grow in strong communities. By connecting youth with families, neighbors, and local partners, growth becomes a shared journey, teaching teamwork, leadership, and the power of lifting each other up.

  • Opportunities shouldn’t end with a season. Investing in coaches, local spaces, and long-term programs creates lasting support so kids can keep learning, playing, and growing — and communities can continue to flourish.

  • Every child deserves a seat on the field. By removing barriers, embracing differences, and nurturing belonging, PREPSTEP ensures that all youth have the chance to play, learn, and succeed together.

Our Solution

The PrepStep Project gives youth the chance to play, grow, and lead through baseball programs infused with social-emotional learning and mentorship. We help young athletes build skills, confidence, teamwork, and resilience—on the field and in life. Through structured coaching, SEL-focused activities, and supportive mentorship, PrepStep creates safe, accessible spaces where kids can thrive. Our programs prepare youth today for the steps they’ll take tomorrow.

  • Structured Programming

    Age-appropriate coaching and training that builds fundamental skills, teamwork, and a passion for the game in a supportive, inclusive setting.

  • SEL Coaching & Mentoring

    Social-emotional learning and mentorship that foster confidence, resilience, and positive decision-making both on and off the field.

  • Leadership & Development

    Targeted activities designed to develop communication, responsibility, and teamwork, empowering youth to become effective leaders.

  • Field & Facility Revitalization

    Restoration and upgrades of local baseball fields to create safe, well-maintained spaces for training, competition, and community growth.

  • Capacity Building

    Training for coaches and volunteers combined with the establishment of sustainable systems to ensure consistent, high-quality programming over time.

Make an impact today

Your support creates real opportunities for Baltimore’s youth to grow through sports. Every gift helps provide safe fields, skilled coaching, and programs that build confidence and leadership. Join us in making a lasting difference—because when you give, you change lives.

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