Long Valley Teen Launches Foundation to Fund Rec Sports for Underprivileged Kids

Abby Bauer has spent her teen years doing the opposite of what most of her peers have done.

She’s doing for others. Always.

The 16-year-old Long Valley resident has embarked on a new journey, one that sets out to help underprivileged children across the state. The venture comes after Bauer secured $1,500 for Homeless Solutions in Morris County and was the recipient of a Kohl’s Cares Award.

Bauer, a rising junior at the Pingry School, created a non-profit corporation titled Teams for Kids Foundation, Inc. Through the organization, funds will be raised to allow children of homeless and low-income families within the state of New Jersey to participate in recreational sports programs.

Bauer spends two nights each month volunteering at Homeless Solutions, organizing crafts, games, and seasonal activities for the children living at the shelter. Because of her ongoing relationship with the group, Bauer knew more needed to be done.

Because of the financial situation most of the residents of Homeless Solutions are in, spending money on recreational sports for children is often considered a luxury item.

Since the foundation’s inception, Bauer has raised $2,000, enabling children to have swim lessons, participate in basketball camps and join recreational sports teams in their communities.

Bauer also had the opportunity to send a dozen of the shelter’s children to a Brooklyn Nets game this past April thanks to a combined effort with the Andray Blatche Foundation.

“Because a direct correlation exists between parental income and a child’s ability to play team sports, Teams For Kids Foundation, Inc. hopes to provide underprivileged kids with the same opportunities to enjoy recreational sports as children who are fortunate enough to afford such programs,” said Bauer in a statement.

Tax-deductible donations to the Teams For Kids Foundation, Inc. can be mailed to P.O. Box 33, Schooleys Mountain, New Jersey 07870-033.

Find out more at teamsforkidsfoundation.org.