T-ball stories: Tavi and Landen Oakley
At Every Kid Sports, we are committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to experience the joy and benefits of sports, regardless of financial barriers. Stories like Melissa Oakley’s remind us why our mission is so important and showcase the real impact it has on families.
Meet Melissa and her kids, Landen and Tavi
Melissa is a dedicated mother to two children, Landen, age 4, and Tavi, age 6. This past spring, both Landen and Tavi were fortunate enough to receive funding from Every Kid Sports to participate in T-ball. Melissa shares her heartfelt experience and the difference this opportunity made in their lives.
“In this economy, getting to say yes to things my kids are passionate about is rare, and if it wasn’t for this organization, I would have never been able to let them participate in the spring.”
Melissa Oakley, Tavi and Landon’s mom
Landen’s journey: Finding focus and joy through sports
Landen is not your typical 4-year-old. He has ADHD combined type, Auditory Processing Disorder, and a speech delay. Despite these challenges, Landen has found his safe place on the sports field. Sports provide him with a unique environment where he can hyper-focus and excel. Melissa notes, “When he is on a sports field, that is his safe place. He loves the challenge that sports provide him and it is an area he can become hyper-focused and really excel.”
For Landen, sports are more than just a game; they are a sanctuary where he can thrive and overcome the struggles of being neurodivergent.
Tavi’s exploration: Discovering passion and sportsmanship
Tavi, on the other hand, is an enthusiastic 6-year-old who wants to try everything. Although she hasn’t yet found her passion for a singular activity, she embraces every moment of whatever she takes on. Melissa is proud of Tavi’s sportsmanship, highlighting that “after every game instead of talking about her successes or struggles, it is always about how great someone else did.”
Sports have instilled in Tavi a remarkable sense of camaraderie and appreciation for others, which Melissa values deeply.
The impact of Every Kid Sports
Melissa candidly shares the financial challenges many families face today and how Every Kid Sports has made a significant difference in their lives. “In this economy, getting to say yes to things my kids are passionate about is rare, and if it wasn’t for this organization, I would have never been able to let them participate in the spring,” she explains.
Every Kid Sports enabled Landen and Tavi to enjoy the benefits of sports, fostering their development and happiness in ways that might not have been possible otherwise.
Join us in supporting more kids like Tavi and Landon.
Melissa’s story is a testament to the profound impact we can have on children’s lives. We are honored to be part of Landen and Tavi’s journey and are inspired by their enthusiasm and growth.
At Every Kid Sports, we believe in the power of sports to transform lives, build character, and create lasting memories. We invite you to join us in making a difference by supporting our mission and helping more children like Landen and Tavi experience the joy of sports.