Fort Wayne’s beloved holiday event, Christmas on Broadway, has chosen the World Baseball Academy as its featured non-profit for 2025. This selection highlights the academy’s work in youth leadership and community service during the 21st annual celebration on November 21 at Broadway Plaza.

The tradition brings together families for lights, a parade, and tree lighting starting at 5 p.m. Organizers picked the academy to showcase its impact on local kids through baseball and beyond.

A Holiday Spotlight on Youth Development

Christmas on Broadway marks its 21st year as a key Fort Wayne tradition. The free event features a 40 foot Colorado spruce tree, festive music, and community gatherings that draw thousands each year.

This year’s focus on the World Baseball Academy ties the winter festivities to summer sports values. The academy uses baseball to teach life skills, making it a fitting choice for the holiday spirit of giving back.

Leaders from the event say the selection aims to boost awareness for non-profits that serve young people. Past featured groups have seen increased donations and volunteer support after the spotlight.

The Roots and Growth of World Baseball Academy

The World Baseball Academy started back in 1993 with a simple baseball tournament in Fort Wayne. Founders wanted to teach the game but soon saw the need for deeper lessons in leadership and character.

Over two decades, it grew into a full nonprofit that runs the ASH Centre, a 26 acre sports campus. Today, it serves more than 5,000 kids each year with programs that blend fun and growth.

The academy’s vision centers on creating leaders who make a positive difference. Baseball serves as the tool, but the real goal is building strong values for life success.

Staff members often share how the work changed their own paths. One instructor notes the joy of watching kids find confidence on the field and carry it off.

Key Programs That Build Future Leaders

The academy offers a range of initiatives tailored to different needs in the community. These efforts go beyond basic training to address real challenges faced by young athletes.

For example, the On Deck program targets at risk students with mentoring and skill building. It provides a safe space where kids learn teamwork and resilience.

Another focus is on athletes with special needs, offering inclusive opportunities to play and grow. The STEM initiative links math and science to baseball, sparking interest in education through sports.

Here are some standout programs:

• On Deck: Supports at risk youth with leadership training and baseball skills.
• Special Needs Athletics: Creates accessible events for participants with disabilities.
• STEM Baseball Camp: Teaches science concepts like velocity and distance via hands on activities.
• Mission Trips: Sends teams abroad, such as recent visits to the Dominican Republic, to build global perspectives.
• Wiffle Ball Tournaments: Fun fundraisers that raised over $58,000 in 2025 for community youth.

These programs show how the academy turns passion for the game into lasting personal development.

Community Impact and Recent Achievements

The World Baseball Academy has become a cornerstone in Fort Wayne’s sports scene. Its campus hosts tournaments that attract teams from across the region, boosting local economy and youth engagement.

In 2025, the group held its 7th Annual Dinner on the Diamond fundraiser. The event brought together supporters to celebrate progress and plan ahead.

Partnerships like the one with the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation have expanded reach. They added a Youth Development Park and “Badges for Baseball” to reward good character.

To illustrate the academy’s growth, consider this table of key milestones:

This timeline highlights steady expansion and community ties.

Gratitude and Looking Ahead

Staff at the World Baseball Academy express deep thanks for the honor. They see it as a chance to share their story with a wider audience during the holidays.

One director calls it a true privilege amid many great local groups. The recognition will help spread word about serving students year round.

As the event approaches, excitement builds for how it might inspire more involvement. The academy plans to keep delivering meaningful experiences long after the lights dim.

Even beyond the season, the group commits to gifts like mentorship and opportunity. These efforts shape young lives in ways that last a lifetime.

Readers, join the festivities on November 21 and support the World Baseball Academy’s vital work. Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word to friends and family.