We are a faith-based organization committed to supporting and enabling young athletes, children and families in need through scholarships, camps and outreach programs.

Tara’s Story Tara Sawyer was a wonderful inspiration who passed at the age of ten from a waterborne illness. She touched countless lives as a caring family member, compassionate friend and an exceptional and encouraging teammate. Tara had a passion for sports, but Tara really loved baseball. The only girl on her team, Tara’s talent and friendship earned her the nickname “Uno,” the one and only. She even led her team to a World Series tournament. But, more than anything, Tara’s selfless example caused others to need to examine their own lives to find ways to be better and to do more.

The Tara Sawyer Classic In our attempt to keep Tara’s memory alive for her young brothers and friends, we created a Baseball tournament: The Tara Sawyer Classic. The community rallied behind us with such vigor, it rapidly grew resulting in an all new awareness of needs among families of young athletes. The Tara Sawyer Foundation, therefore, was birthed to answer those many needs.

Annually, every first weekend in October, more than 220 youth baseball teams from sur- rounding areas convene in North Texas for the Tara Sawyer Classic: the premiere youth baseball tournament in the state of Texas. The tournament is full of excitement for the players and families. Each player receives a tournament hat pin, gift for participating and an invitation to return next year. Families enjoy the games while treating the younger siblings to a carnival type atmosphere. Activities include bounce houses, clowns, face painters, photo buttons, etc. Over 7,500 people including players, coaches, supporters, fans and volunteers are involved in this weekend event. 2,640 players 444 coaches 5,500+ parents/grandparents/siblings 175 volunteers

The Tara Sawyer Classic is an officially sanctioned NFL Super Bowl Slant 45 Event. Every elementary aged participant and volunteer at the Tara Sawyer Classic qualifies as a Slant 45 participant. Participants are invited to reflect through artwork or writing on serving others through the Tara Sawyer Foundation, and will be invited to the Slant 45 celebration in January, 2011 at the AA Center where President George Bush and many other famous personalities will appear in a celebration of giving. Slant 45 & The Tara Sawyer Foundation

The Barnabas Award at the Classic The Tara Sawyer Foundation was established in 2002 to continue Tara’s passion and love for baseball, for giving and for encouraging others in need. We hope to build and esteem in others these character qualities friends and family grew to admire and love most about Tara. The name Barnabas means “Son of Encouragement” Each participating team nominates a player to receive this award. Players are personally recognized for good character by a Sawyer Family member awarding them, personally, with a certificate and gift. Letters pour in every year about how this award means more to many of these players than any other trophy or token of recognition.

How We Help… Scholarships Athletic and academic scholarships, children’s ministry, education and enrichment programs are funded directly to specific organizations in a child’s name. We carefully oversee our funding so that it is not lost in a “shuffle.” We assist our families of athletes and young children financially and with in-kind contributions. Royal Family Kids Camp Tara enjoyed fellowship with other children and was committed to encouraging others. We are committed to bring that same support to children who have not had the joy of true friendship or family in their lives. This charitable organization provides fun, caring camps for abused, neglected or abandoned children. Life Outreach International’s Water for Life Because Tara contracted a water borne parasite while swimming in a lake, we find it fitting to help provide clean, safe water for other children. This outstanding charity is committed to drilling safe wells in impoverished nations around the world. The wells produced through this work provide safe, healthy water to communities for generations.

Over 1,000 Children have been provided sponsorships to participate in athletic programs including associations, teams, schooling and camps. Tara Sawyer Helps

Thank You for considering partnering with us!