Sponsors
Be A Sponsor
Every spring and fall, we provide organized baseball and softball experiences and memories for kids all across the Lawrence, Oaklandon, and surrounding areas. OYO is an all-volunteer effort, and sponsorships are a major key to the success of our organization.
When you add up all the expenses related to operating a youth program that involves 1400 players, 125 teams, 12 fields, 3 batting cages, and 2 concession stands, the per player fee is expensive — and one too great for any individual family to afford. However, when you add in the generous support and loyalty from our local businesses, OYO is able to provide an affordable experience for every family who wants to play at Oaklandon Youth Organization. We recognize the economic challenges continue to linger, but we’re seeking your help in 2012.
Below are answers to some commonly asked questions we receive every year:
Does a sponsor have to have a child playing at OYO to be able to sponsor?
No. In fact, dozens of our sponsors are local businesses that support a variety of youth and non-profit organizations.
What types of sponsorship opportunities do you have?
The popular sponsorship packages we introduced in 2011 are back. Our most popular sponsorship – team sponsorship – is available. A Team Sponsorship provides your company name on one team’s player jerseys. Your company also will receive its own individual banner on one of the fences along our most popular walkways. And lastly, your company will be recognized on the seasonal banners listing all the sponsors on each field. This sponsorship is $350 for spring/$175 for fall (or $500 for both). We also have a variety of sponsorship packages available for businesses seeking alternate sponsorship opportunities. For a list of all sponsorship packages, click here.
How do sponsorships work now that you have a spring and fall season?
Easy! Businesses can choose to be a sponsor for just one season or both. We offer discounted packages for businesses that agree to sponsor both a spring and fall season.
How much of a difference do the sponsorships make for OYO?
A lot. Without the generosity and support of our sponsors, registration fees would increase by more than $50 per player.
Times are tight, and I can’t afford to cut a $300 sponsorship check. Can I donate services of that value?
We have coordinated in-kind sponsorship trades in the past. Companies that have special equipment or a specific skill set they can donate to OYO, we welcome your contribution. And, yes, we’ll coordinate a sponsorship trade. In 2012, we’re in specific need of help with maintaining our grounds, improving the infields of our ball diamonds, placing electrical outlets near our batting cages, repairing our fences, and addressing a range of water drainage issues on our back diamonds. If you can help us, please let us know.
I think I know some businesses that would be great sponsors for OYO, what should I do?
Feel free to direct them to our Web site or contact our sponsorship co-chairpersons –contact Donetta Gee-Weiler or Dana Bowser – who will gladly contact the business(es).
What’s the deadline for being a sponsor this season?
For any sponsors interested in a team sponsorship, we need to secure your support by March 1 for Spring Ball and August 1 for Fall Ball to ensure we can assign the business to a team of choice without any restrictions. Banner sponsorships are accepted throughout the season.
If your business or employer is interested in sponsoring a team or banner for this spring and/or fall ball season, please email our co-chairs, Donetta Gee-Weiler or Dana Bowser.
