CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. (WKBW) — April is National Volunteer Month and we are highlighting an organization whose work succeeds through its volunteers. Leveling The Playing Field is a national organization working to address the growing inequities in youth sports by collecting used athletic equipment through donations.
"The easiest way to think about leveling the playing field is we are essentially a food bank for sports equipment," LFP WNY Program Director Taylor Cicoria said. "We collect used excess gear and distribute to kids in need throughout Buffalo and Western New York."
The organization recently moved to Western New York in 2023 and is currently looking for volunteers to help at the warehouse and beyond. The organization collects gear from balls, bats, helmets, shoes, and nearly anything else sports related.
"We're really building up our inventory so we can start distributing," Cicoria said. "We offer several volunteer opportunities at the warehouse as an individual or with a group. We also have the opportunity to run your own collection drive to help us stock up the warehouse."
Leveling The Playing Field is planning to start the distribution of the gear to families in July. There are four locations that you can drop equipment off listed below. If you'd like to volunteer at the warehouse, you can sign up here.
DROP OFF LOCATIONS:
- North Tonawanda Athletic Association / 1241 Strad Avenue, North Tonawanda
- The R.O.C.K / 425 Meyer Rd, West Seneca
- LFP Warehouse / 79 Benbro Dr, Cheektowaga
- Bob Jones Field / 4415 Millersport Highway, Amherst
