Our Story

by Chad Wilkerson, Co-Founder

I had a dream in my heart for years, especially after watching my brother and his wife adopt 3 children and truly change the trajectory of their lives with that one decision. And then, one day, in the middle of a church service, my heart and mind began to stir.

What does every orphan need? They need love. They need someone to care for them. They need something fun in their life. And they need truth to live by. And…just like that, Book and a Ball was birthed!

I shared the idea with Michelle, my wife, and then with my grandfather, who was very influential in my life. Everyone agreed, THIS was a way to touch countless orphans around the world.

Shortly afterwards, when a couple walked up to us and gave us $1,200—the exact amount we needed to form a non-profit organization—we knew we were on the right path!

Then, the next week, a pastor for 52 years walked up and gave us the largest gift we have ever received, to date, for Book and a Ball.

In January 2016 we partnered with Kasey Stewart, one of my closest friends, who travels the world and has the gift of story-telling, making him the perfect partner for Book and a Ball.

Being in the sports world, I made contact with my friends, getting both soccer and basketballs. Then made connections with others to get just the right book for children, in their language, that would have the power to change their lives!

In March that same year, Book and a Ball went to Ecuador, our first overseas trip, and distributed 60 books and balls! And we were OFF!!

In April, we partnered with Royal Kids Camp, a group who throws a huge birthday party every year for foster kids. We gave away HUNDREDS of balls, and put their names on them. The smiles on their faces said it all, "My very own BALL!”

Through the last few years, we have partnered with large and small congregations, groups and individuals, both locally, domestically, and internationally. We love to partner with other non-profits, as well, such as One Hope and Compassion International.

We have completed projects in North America, South America, Asia, Europe, and Africa.