LIVING BIG: Exclusives with Inspiring Leaders - Francesca Carloni
At FGS&Co. we are constantly inspired by changemakers. Every now and then, we’re lucky enough to hear how our work inspires communities around the world.
The most recent example comes from a woman named Francesca Carloni in Bologna, Italy and her group of young and passionate baseball players.
Francesca is a wife, mother and entrepreneur, who was inspired by FGS&Co. and our founder Pam Baer to use the sport of baseball to create an opportunity for the kids in her community to come together, regardless of immigration or family status. This spring, she wrote to us to express her gratitude:
“I visited your website, and read about your amazing activity. That was really inspiring … I figured out that everyone can make a difference... everyone can help others, they can make a difference, too.”
It’s no secret that Italy is the nation of soccer, but Francesca has managed to cultivate a culture of acceptance in youth baseball in her hometown of Bologna:
“When my eldest son started to play baseball I realized that helping the team to grow was a fantastic opportunity to give back to community.”
Italy, along with the majority of Europe, has seen a rise in immigration, which according to Francesca has caused social strains in many communities. Starting a youth baseball league was the perfect opportunity to encourage inclusion and diversity in her family’s community:
"The mission of our team is 'nobody is left behind.' We welcome every boy and girl, no matter what his/her family situation or origin is... Through baseball we are trying to make integration become a reality by helping these children discover the beauty of sharing the same passion, the same rules, and a coach to look up to - someone who cares."
We are humbled and honored to showcase Francesca and her team, San Lazzaro ‘90, for the incredible impact they have already had on their community, and for the work they are sure to inspire in the future.
When asked about her biggest inspiration, Francesca glows about her young players:
“My biggest inspiration is our little baseball players: I am the one who yells in the dugout! At the end of the day, they are the reason and my biggest inspiration to continue giving back.”
Francesca, from all of us at FGS&Co., thank you. You inspire us to Live Big, Love Hard and Give Back.
Are you a changemaker in your community? Have a story of inspiration you want to share? Tell us more here!
2 Responses
Francesca Carloni
On behalf of all our little players and all the people at San Lazzaro 90 Baseball Team a big big thank you for sharing our story in your site.
It was a real honor and pleasure to meet you,
We will continue to live big, love hard and give back!
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Mapi
July 07, 2016
I am proud of being a friend of Francesca’s and can only subscribe to what she said.
Cultural differences are precious in that they enrich everybody; by stressing the value of each individual, she helps overthrowing barriers and makes the World a better place to live in.
…And… did you know she’s an awesome cook? ;-)