Max Bobholz – At 12 Years Old He Helped Bring Baseball to Africa!
Max Bobholz, from Green Bay, Wisconsin, was only 12 years old when he got came up with the idea to create a charity to provide baseball equipment to children in Africa.
While watching his favorite sport, baseball, on tv, Max learned about little league teams from Africa who did not have the proper equipment to play in games. They either made equipment themselves or had to few items among all the children.
He thought about all of the extra bats, balls and equipment that he and his friends had in their garages and homes.
Then, inspired by his former baseball coach, T. Williquette, who passed away earlier that year, he decided to take action and help. All equipment donated to Africa has Coach Williquette’s softball number (20) hand-written on each item.
His charity became known as Angels at Bat and, for far, he has donated over 10,000 pieces of equipment to kids in need! Along with this, Max has traveled to Africa several times to donate equipment and coach some of the kids.
His charity has grown to include six branches in other towns around the USA! And Angels at Bat was recognized as the primary source of baseball equipment for the entire country of Kenya by the President of Kenya’s Little League!
Recently, Max, now age 18, was honored by CNN as one of 5 Young Wonders, for his amazing spirit of giving and service.
Check out his very inspiring story below and then see how you can help:
Additional Resources:
- Learn more about Angels at Bat
- Watch other great IMK stories about children and adults that exhibit caring
- Read IMK’s list of great quotes for kids about caring
Topics for Discussion:
- What character traits does Max exhibit?
- What inspired Max to take action and do something to help African children?
- Why is it so important to treat everyone with respect and dignity?
Take Action:
- Sponsor a team, donate to Angels at Bat or maybe even start a local chapter in your area
- Think about something you are passionate about (like baseball). Think about someone in need. Imagine ways you might be able to help them. Go do it!!!
