Garfield Park Little League

About Garfield Park Little League

Garfield Park Little League (GPLL), based on Chicago’s West Side, is far more than a baseball league. Since 2008, they’ve been using baseball as a vehicle for youth development—teaching not just fundamentals of the game, but also accountability, character, leadership, and life skills. Their “Bases Loaded” program integrates mentorship, education, and health initiatives, supporting more than 500 boys and girls each year with the help of 60+ dedicated volunteers.

01 — The challenge

As Garfield Park Little League's impact grew, so did the need to effectively communicate their mission to funders, sponsors, and partners. They had incredible stories—but lacked the collateral to convey those stories with the emotional weight and clarity needed to unlock new support.

As part of a project with EPIC (Engaging Philanthropy, Inspiring Creatives)—a nonprofit that organizes pro bono creative professionals to help nonprofits power their impact—I served as creative director for a short film that would serve as GPLL’s storytelling centerpiece.

The video centers on a heartfelt, candid interview with a former GPLL player who reflects on the league’s deep impact on his life. His voice is interspersed with dynamic footage of players, parents, and coaches in action—on the field, in the dugout, and in the community. The result is a rich, emotional portrait that brings GPLL’s mission to life through story and imagery, rather than stats and bullet points.

03 — The Impact

The video became a game-changer for Garfield Park Little League:

  • Secured Major Grants: Funders reported that the video helped them understand GPLL’s community impact more viscerally and inspired confidence in the organization's leadership and model.

  • 4x Increase in Sponsorships: The video gave potential sponsors a compelling, visual reason to invest—leading to a quadrupling of sponsorship revenue.

  • New Strategic Partnerships: The film has been used in presentations, pitches, and events, helping GPLL expand its network and attract new allies.