A small gesture
"...it doesn't have to be a big thing. It can just seem that way, depending on whom you do it for.” -Trevor (from the movie Pay It Forward)
Guantes Para Ninos started as a conversation between two brothers. That conversation has turned into a way to do something in this world for others that was done for us in so many different ways, by so many different people. We have played many sports most of our lives and without those experiences and people, our lives would not be what they are today. There is no other single experience in my life that has given me more than playing ball with my brothers, friends, and teammates. I think we lose sight of what sports are for us and what purpose they can serve. When I heard my brother Eric talk about the kids he saw in the Dominican, it reminded me of playing hours of catch, and pick-up games in the yard. Our purpose and mission are simple. We want to get gloves and equipment to kids in the DR in hopes of paying something forward in the spirit of those who spent years encouraging us, coaching us and simply just believing in us.
Patrick O’Connor is married and a father of 6 great kids. He lives out a vicarious childhood going to practice and games with his little ones. They let him coach their teams on a week-to-week basis in Durham NC where he works as a paramedic.
Eric O’Connor is a talented filmmaker and stellar athlete. Eric resides in Manhattan, NY when not traveling the world documenting the human condition, and those who are trying to improve it. He has 10 nieces and nephews who all think "Uncle E" is pretty cool.