We are a faith-based organization
committed to supporting and
enabling young athletes, children and
families in need through scholarships,
camps and outreach programs.
Tara’s Story
Tara Sawyer was a wonderful inspiration who
passed at the age of ten from a waterborne
illness. She touched countless lives as a caring
family member, compassionate friend and
an exceptional and encouraging teammate.
Tara had a passion for sports, but Tara really
loved baseball. The only girl on her team,
Tara’s talent and friendship earned her
the nickname “Uno,” the one and only.
She even led her team to a World Series tournament.
But, more than anything, Tara’s selfless example caused
others to need to examine their own lives to find ways
to be better and to do more.
The Tara Sawyer Classic
In our attempt to keep Tara’s memory alive for her young brothers
and friends, we created a Baseball tournament: The Tara Sawyer
Classic.
The community rallied behind us with such vigor, it rapidly grew
resulting in an all new awareness of
needs among families of young
athletes. The Tara Sawyer
Foundation, therefore, was birthed
to answer those many needs.
Annually, every first weekend in October, more
than 220 youth baseball teams from surrounding areas convene in North Texas for the
Tara Sawyer Classic: the premiere youth
baseball tournament in the state of Texas.
The tournament is full of excitement for the
players and families. Each player receives a
tournament hat pin, gift for participating and
an invitation to return next year. Families
enjoy the games while treating the younger siblings to a carnival type atmosphere.
Activities include bounce houses, clowns, face painters, photo buttons, etc.
• Over 7,500 people including players, coaches, supporters, fans and volunteers
are involved in this weekend event.
• 2,640 players
• 444 coaches
• 5,500+ parents/grandparents/siblings
• 175 volunteers
Slant 45 & The Tara Sawyer Foundation
The Tara Sawyer Classic is an officially sanctioned NFL Super Bowl Slant 45
Event.
Every elementary aged participant and volunteer at the Tara Sawyer Classic
qualifies as a Slant 45 participant. Participants are invited to reflect through
artwork or writing on serving others through the Tara Sawyer
Foundation, and will be invited to the Slant 45
celebration in January, 2011 at the AA Center
where President George Bush and many other
famous personalities will appear in a celebration
of giving.
The Barnabas Award at the Classic
The Tara Sawyer Foundation was established in
2002 to continue Tara’s passion and love for
baseball, for giving and for encouraging others in
need. We hope to build and esteem in others
these character qualities friends and family grew to
admire and love most about Tara.
The name Barnabas means
“Son of Encouragement”
Each participating team nominates a player to receive
this award. Players are personally recognized for
good character by a Sawyer
Family member awarding them, personally, with a
certificate and gift. Letters pour in every year
about how this award means more to many of
these players than any other trophy or token of
recognition.
How We Help…
Scholarships
Athletic and academic scholarships, children’s ministry,
education and enrichment programs are funded
directly to specific organizations in a child’s name. We
carefully oversee our funding so that it is not lost in a
“shuffle.” We assist our families of athletes and young
children financially and with in-kind contributions.
Royal Family Kids Camp
Tara enjoyed fellowship with other children and was committed to encouraging others. We
are committed to bring that same support to children who have not had the joy of true
friendship or family in their lives. This charitable organization provides fun, caring camps
for abused, neglected or abandoned children.
Life Outreach International’s Water for Life
Because Tara contracted a water borne parasite while swimming in a lake, we find it fitting
to help provide clean, safe water for other children. This outstanding charity is committed
to drilling safe wells in impoverished nations around the world. The wells produced
through this work provide safe, healthy
water to communities for generations.
Tara Sawyer Helps
Over 1,000 Children have been provided sponsorships to
participate in athletic programs including associations,
teams, schooling and camps.
Basketball
Baseball
Track
Football
Volleyball
Education
Dance
Thank You for
considering
partnering with us!