The Sandlot Initiative
Spectator SportsSouth Carolina, United States2-10 Employees
The Sandlot Initiative, based in Charleston, South Carolina, uses baseball to address social divides among youth. The concept evolved over several years, tracing back to a 2011 all-star game that highlighted inequities between teams and a commitment to prevent similar situations. Following the Charlottesville riots, the idea was sharpened into an approach that places two children from different socioeconomic backgrounds on the same field to foster teamwork and friendship. The organization operates in the spectator sports sector, emphasizing inclusive experiences on the baseball field rather than purely competitive outcomes. In January 2026, a partnership was announced with the Ripken Foundation and the City of North Charleston to build a new Youth Development Park in North Charleston, SC.