Who we are

At Diamond Roots Foundation, we are passionate about empowering young athletes through baseball and softball. Our nonprofit organization provides access to programs, scholarships, and mentorship for children of all backgrounds, ensuring that financial barriers never limit a child’s potential.

We believe that the lessons learned on the field—teamwork, discipline, perseverance, and integrity—are the same skills that help shape successful, well-rounded adults. By fostering growth both on and off the diamond, we aim to create a community where every child can thrive, develop confidence, and reach their full potential.

We also support reputable, trustworthy, and well-established local youth baseball and softball organizations, as well as school teams, because we believe in empowering and building community programs that are sustainable for years to come—helping today’s youth become the leaders of tomorrow. Through community clinics, coaching education, and facility improvements, we create environments where youth can learn, play, and grow safely and confidently.

Diamond Roots Foundation—where the game plants the seed, character takes root, and every child has the opportunity to flourish.

Our Leadership Team

Together, this leadership team ensures that Diamond Roots Foundation provides exceptional opportunities for young athletes while fostering character, integrity, and lifelong skills.

A.J. Belanger – Board Chair

A.J. is the founder and driving force behind the Diamond Roots Foundation. With a lifelong passion for baseball and youth development, A.J. created DRF to ensure that every young athlete—regardless of income—has the opportunity to play, grow, and build life skills through the game. He oversees the foundation’s programs, partnerships, and overall mission to inspire the next generation of ballplayers.

Barry Neff – Vice Chair

Barry brings years of leadership experience and a deep commitment to community sports. As Vice Chair, he supports organizational strategy, assists in partnership development, and helps guide the foundation’s long-term goals. Barry’s focus is on making youth baseball and softball accessible and inclusive for all families.

Samantha Autry – Secretary

Samantha keeps Diamond Roots Foundation organized and running smoothly behind the scenes. She manages board records, meeting documentation, and assists with communication and coordination among board members. Samantha’s attention to detail and dedication help ensure that DRF operates efficiently and transparently.

Suzanne Freda – Treasurer

Suzanne oversees the financial stewardship of the Diamond Roots Foundation. With a strong background in budgeting and finance, she ensures that donations and sponsorships are used responsibly to maximize impact for youth athletes. Her attention to detail and financial integrity help DRF grow sustainably and stay mission-focused.

Josh Bagley – Director of Community Engagement

Josh leads the foundation’s efforts to connect with families, schools, and local sports organizations. His passion for youth development and his ability to build strong community relationships help expand DRF’s reach and impact. He also coordinates volunteers and supports fundraising and event planning throughout the year.

Christy Smith -Director of Strategic Initiatives

Christy Smith brings a strong passion for community growth and youth development to her role as Director of Strategic Initiatives with the Diamond Roots Foundation. She focuses on building partnerships, creating impactful programs, and identifying new opportunities to expand DRF’s reach and resources. Christy is dedicated to helping the foundation grow in ways that support young athletes both on and off the field, ensuring every initiative strengthens DRF’s mission and long-term vision.

A young baseball player in a black shirt and gray pants throwing a pitch on the mound, with a baseball glove in his left hand, outside on a baseball field.
A black wooden surface with the words 'DREAM BIG.' written in white paint.
Young baseball player wearing a helmet and neon green jersey, holding a baseball glove to his face on a baseball field.
A group of people playing baseball in a grassy field with trees and a white fence in the background.

Contact us

We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have questions about our programs, want to volunteer, or are interested in supporting DRF, please fill out the form below. A member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Your support helps us provide scholarships, clinics, and mentorship to young athletes, giving them the tools to grow both on and off the field.

A person in a catcher's uniform and helmet at home plate during a baseball game, with another person in the outfield and a baseball in play.