Westport Properties Inc. (WPI), which operates more than 120 self-storage facilities under the US Storage Centers brand, is supporting the Major League Baseball Compton Youth Academy in Compton, Calif., with a monetary donation. The company is also providing free space at one of its facilities for the storage of baseball equipment, according to a press release.
WPI and its general contractor, Damato Associates Inc., each donated $1,000 to the academy to replace recently stolen equipment and help fund costs for the 2019 season. Diamond Sports, a supplier of sporting goods, donated 120 baseballs to the organization.
“Community involvement is a core value of our company,” said David Kelly, director of development for WPI. “It is our practice to look for difference-makers in the communities in which we develop to offer a helping hand. Coach G and his organization came to our attention early on as one such organization. We are grateful for the help of our general contractor and Diamond Sports for their donations.”
Founded in 2006 and operated by coach Gerald Pickens, the academy is a nonprofit that offers low-cost and free baseball and softball training for kids during the months outside of Little League season. It aims to cultivate diversity in the game, provide a safe activity for urban youth, and prepare players for college and professional leagues, according to its website. Registration is free, but a $25 donation per child is suggested.
Founded in 1985 and based in Irvine, Calif., WPI is a real estate investment company that acquires, develops and operates self-storage facilities and provides third-party management services. Its portfolio comprises more than 9 million rentable square feet in 15 states.
