Valley East Little League received a $22,000 First Federal Charitable Foundation grant it will use to upgrade its current outdated field lighting to new energy efficient LED lighting.
The current lighting at the league's complex is unreliable and not energy efficient and several light heads are not operating and need to be replaced. By upgrading to an LED system, the league can avoid placing a safety risk on league members and local firefighters who have to elevate more than 60 feet in the air to change light bulbs. Additionally, the change will held the league lower its environmental impact and reduce its energy consumption and utility bills.
The Valley East Little League generally serves youth living in Drums who attend the Drums Elementary/Middle School, as well as some children who live in Hazle Township, Freeland Borough, and Foster Township. It also serves youth from surrounding communities that may not have a Little League organization.
Since it was chartered in 1953, thousands of area children have played every level of Little League baseball with Valley East Little League. In 2022, there were 197 youth registered with the organization, a 16% increase over 2021. The organization continues to target areas of improvement every year so it may remain sustainable.
Kevin Eckrote, Player Agent for Valley East Little League, said, “Over 30 years ago, Valley East Little League recognized the need for lighting to extend playing time for the organization and increase safety during evening low light conditions. Our new lighting project will increase the safety and security of our facilities while improving the overall attractiveness of the complex. These factors will enhance outdoor recreation and sporting opportunities for the residents and visitors of Butler Township. The new LED technology will help to create a more sustainable future by reducing our environmental footprint through reduced energy consumption. The reduced consumption will also create a financial savings allowing future funds to be better utilized supporting the youth of our organization.”
The First Federal Charitable Foundation was established to support worthwhile community causes. It strives to nurture nonprofit institutions and programs that will effectively serve those in need from the community, empower nonprofit institutions and programs that will expand their presence in and services to the area, and promote opportunities for new nonprofit institutions and programs that will serve the unserved.
Nonprofit organizations with a 501(c)(3) IRS designation that are located in Luzerne, Schuylkill, Carbon and Columbia counties are eligible to apply. Any organization whose headquarters is in another county but services either Luzerne, Schuylkill, Carbon or Columbia counties may apply for a grant to be used in one of those counties.
For more information on the foundation or to obtain a grant application, email