A $9,000 donation to 16 schools in seven St. Clair County school districts has covered pay to play athletic fees for numerous students thanks to the Lelito’s Legacy Foundation.
Districts require a $50-$175 payment for sports participation and for some families, that fee can be a barrier to a child joining a team. That barrier, for many, has been removed. The Lelito’s Legacy Foundation “exists to function exclusively for charitable purposes providing financial assistance to deserving youth programs that promote skill development, sportsmanship, and positive self-growth” and was started by Tim Lelito, a St. Clair High School grad who played in the NFL.
Kelly Klemmer, Development Director for the Foundation, said, “Lelito’s Legacy Foundation envisions a safe and inclusive athletic community for all, and breaking down those financial barriers for those in need can create amazing opportunities for kids.” She went on to also say that “Sports is a gateway to keeping kids excited and attending school, better grades, and a healthier lifestyle – we don’t want anyone to miss out on that!” Klemmer credited the Community Foundation of St. Clair County and the St. Clair Inn’s Donor Advised Fund for assisting in the donation.
Reporting for WGRT, Karly Hurley.
