Shaping the Future of Youth
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About Us
Down the Middle Foundation was formed out of the passion Darnell Lee, Jr. has for his community and for children in general. In 2009, he launched out to serve his community and bridge the gap in hunger through the Lending a Hand Community Initiative.
While working in recreation management in Leesburg, VA, he continued to develop his passion to teach and mentor youth. When returning to the Franklin/Southampton area and becoming the Franklin High School Baseball coach, he began to see the lack in baseball and softball skills within the city. Since 2009, Mr. Lee and his staff of volunteers and Board of Directors, have reached over 100 baseball players through camps and clinics.
Our Mission
The mission of DTMF is to support the character development and athletic skills of youth through community service, mentorship, team building, and sports education.
Our Programs
Empowering Children to Be a Better Version of Themselves
Camps
Mentorship
Volunteer
Here’s What’s Going on
At Down the Middle Foundation, we have been involved with our ever growing community, and are happy to share our achievements with you. For many years, we have been making a difference in the lives of youth in the Franklin Southampton County area, and we take pride in everything we do. Read all about our latest updates, and get involved today!
DTM 16U Crushers
Top Gun-USA Tournament
Gold Bracket Runner-Up!
DTM 14U Crushers
2025 14u Field of Dreams Tournament Finalist!
DTM 12U Crushers
2025 12u Field of Dreams Tournament Finalist!
DTM 12U Crushers
2025 Perfect Game Fastpitch Finalist!
DTM 14U Crushers
2025 Top Gun-USA Money Ball Tournament
Gold Bracket Runner-Up!
DTM Baseball & Softball
Spring 2026 Registration
🌟 Calling All Baseball & Softball Stars! 🌟
Registration is open December 9 – February 1 (closes at 5:30 PM).
We’re excited to welcome athletes back for another season of baseball and softball focused on development, confidence, and community!
All players receive a jersey and hat as part of their registration.
We’re building more than just teams—we’re building a community!
At Down The Middle, our mission is to inspire a love for the game while creating a positive, supportive space for every player.
We can’t wait to see you on the field!
DTM Thanksgiving
Friends & Family
Event
FREE THANKSGIVING MEAL!
Join us for a FREE curbside meal!
Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025
2:00 - 4:00PM
For pre-orders of 10+ please email us at eevans@dtmiddle.org
Pre-order pick up time: 1:00 - 2:00 PM
MLK Jr. Community Center
673 Oak St., Franklin, VA. 23851
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Champions League
Sign-Up
Down The Middle Foundation’s Champions League is an inclusive baseball program that celebrates differences while giving every student athlete the chance to be part of a team.
This groundbreaking league provides athletic opportunities for individuals with disabilities who are not currently participating in school sports, as well as their peers who would like to join as Baseball Buddies.
👉 Players can register here at no cost.
👉 Interested in volunteering as a Buddy? Head over to
"Our Programs" tab on our website to sign up as a Volunteer.
Come be part of a community that values teamwork, friendship, and fun on the field!
Our Events
Down The Middle FundraiserMon, Jul 28Franklin
DTM Thanksgiving Friends & Family EventSat, Nov 08MLK Jr. Community Center