Shaping the Future of Youth

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!

2024 Southampton Sussex
Coach Pitch Tournement Champions!

2024 Southampton-Sussex 10U Softball Regular Season and Tournament Champions!

We did it!

Our Founder Darnell Lee, Jr. was recognized as

"Best Local Hero" in the "Around Town" category & Won!

Congratulations Bud!

This year Down The Middle Foundation was recognized in the Hometown Choice Awards as one of the

"Best Community Service Organizations" in the "Best Overall" category & was a finalist!

Let's keep up the good work!

Field of Dreams Tournament

Field of Dreams – Coming Summer 2025
The Down The Middle Foundation is thrilled to announce that our 2025 12U & 14U DTM Crushers will be heading to Iowa to compete in the legendary Field of Dreams Tournament!

This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a dream come true for these young athletes. Representing DTM on such an iconic field is not only a huge milestone—it’s a celebration of their hard work, dedication, and love for the game.

We’ll be sharing more details soon, including how you can help support the Crushers on this unforgettable journey.

Thank you for being part of the DTM family!

DTM 8U - 16U Softball Tryouts

🌟 Calling All Softball Stars! 🌟
Join us for the DTM 8U–16U Softball Travel Team Tryouts.

Saturday, May 3rd & Saturday, May 17th, 2025
📍 Armory Field | 6:00 PM

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, and inclusive space for every player.

Grab your glove, bring your best energy, and show us what you’ve got—we can’t wait to see you on the field!

Spring Baseball & Softball Registration

Get ready to hit a home run! Down The Middle Foundation is excited to announce that registration for Spring Softball and Baseball is now open for boys and girls aged 4-12. Registration is Dec. 1st - Feb. 7th at 5:30pm.

Come join us for an unforgettable season of fun and sportsmanship!