Little League Honors 5 Heroes Who Changed Their Communities

When 12-year-old Theo Price was diagnosed with bone cancer in October 2024, most kids would have focused solely on recovery. Instead, between surgeries and relearning to walk, he created Swings4Theo, a foundation providing free Minor League Baseball tickets to families with seriously ill children.

Theo is one of five volunteers being honored as Little League Community Heroes of the Year, a recognition celebrating people who transform their communities through service. Little League International and New York Life partner annually to find these remarkable individuals among the millions who volunteer in youth baseball programs nationwide.

The other four heroes are just as inspiring. Kennedy Fees, fresh off winning the 2025 Little League Softball World Series, hosts an annual "Strikeout Diabetes" tournament to raise awareness for Type 1 Diabetes, a condition she lives with daily. She also delivers care boxes to children spending time in hospital endocrine units.

Beverly Bogar saved her local West Pasadena league from closure while serving as president, then continued serving as treasurer. The lifelong Pasadena resident also advocates for housing equity and helps homeless neighbors, drawing from her experiences growing up Black in a community facing discrimination.

When Hurricane Helene trapped Charlotte residents without food or water, Kevin Garrison didn't wait for official help. The league marketing manager organized Coulwood Oakdale players and volunteers to deliver daily supplies for two straight weeks, turning young athletes into community lifesavers.

Alyssa Lopez directs Sunset Little League's Challenger Division, creating an inclusive space for players with disabilities and their families. Her work ensures every child gets to experience the joy of playing ball, regardless of physical challenges.

The Ripple Effect

Each hero will receive a donation from New York Life for their local league during an on-field ceremony at the 2026 Little League Baseball World Series in August. They'll also attend the MLB Little League Classic between the Milwaukee Brewers and Atlanta Braves.

But the real prize isn't the recognition. It's the hundreds of lives each person has touched through their dedication. Theo's foundation has given countless families moments of normalcy during impossible times. Kennedy's advocacy helps other kids with diabetes feel less alone. Beverly's leadership preserved a community institution for future generations.

Since launching in 2020, the Community Heroes program has spotlighted thousands of volunteers who make youth sports possible. "Every volunteer plays an integral role in shaping their community, but these five individuals have gone above and beyond," said Patrick Wilson, Little League President and CEO.

Their message is simple: you don't need a cape to be a hero, just a commitment to showing up for your neighbors when it matters most.