Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation Celebrates 25 Years of Impact on Youth Across the Nation

Celebrating 25 Years of the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation

The Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation (CRSF) recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, commemorating a significant milestone that marks its impactful journey in serving American youth. Founded in 2001 by Cal and Bill Ripken, along with their family, the organization has dedicated itself to honoring the legacy of Cal Ripken Sr. and supporting the development of underserved communities throughout the nation. Over the years, CRSF has directly touched the lives of more than 14 million young people, providing opportunities that foster personal growth, mentorship, and education focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

A Legacy of Service

When the CRSF was established in Aberdeen, Maryland, the intent was to support a small number of local kids in honoring their father’s memory. As co-founder Cal Ripken Jr., a renowned Major League Baseball Hall of Famer, remarks, "Now, when I look at what our team has accomplished all across the country, it's truly remarkable." The Foundation's reach has expanded significantly over the years, thanks in part to the dedicated efforts of board members, staff, donors, and corporate partners.

Evolving Initiatives

Starting with its signature program, Badges for Baseball, CRSF initially partnered with local law enforcement officers who served as mentors for youth, imparting valuable life lessons both on and off the field. This program quickly gained traction and expanded to hundreds of communities nationwide, creating a network of mentors and role models for underserved youth.

In 2009, the Foundation shifted its focus towards building recreational fields, ensuring safe spaces where young people could engage in sports and recreational activities. With the establishment of Youth Development Parks, now totaling 126 across 27 states, the CRSF has provided accessible environments for learning and growth, reaching over 742,900 youth.

Advancing Educational Opportunities

Recognizing the importance of education, particularly in the STEM fields, the Foundation has also developed 830 STEM Centers in 28 states. These centers are designed to support academic and career readiness among youth, allowing them to engage with hands-on STEM activities. CRSF has collaborated with over 1,000 educational institutions to implement tailored STEM programming, further extending its reach to more than 344,000 youth and training thousands of educators and mentors.

National Mentorship Initiatives

CRSF has successfully partnered with various organizations, including schools and law enforcement agencies, to implement national program initiatives that provide mentorship and resources to youth-serving organizations. In 2025 alone, the Foundation collaborated with over 1,400 schools and organizations, equipping nearly 38,000 individuals, including educators and law enforcement officers, to reach more than 404,600 youth through its online resource portal.

Looking Ahead

As it moves into its next chapter, the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation remains steadfast in its mission: ensuring that every young person, regardless of their background, has access to safe spaces, mentorship, and opportunities for success. Steve Salem, the president and CEO, emphasized this commitment, stating, "With the dedication of our team and the support of generous partners, we are more committed than ever to expanding our reach and deepening our impact in the communities that need us most."

In its 25-year journey, the CRSF has not only honored the legacy of Cal Ripken Sr. but also transformed the lives of countless young individuals, providing them with the tools and resources needed to thrive. For more information on the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation and its future endeavors, visit Ripken Foundation.