Mike Norris, grew up in San Francisco's Western Edition, and is a former MLB starting pitcher with the Oakland A's, playing from 1975-1983. Norris remains passionate about baseball, and seeks to encourage its growth among youth, especially those in underserved areas. He is also focused on helping community youth overcome some of the many obstacles they may face growing up without recreation. Mike Norris sought partnership with Peacemakers, Inc. to fulfill his vision.

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The Mike Norris Baseball and Wellness Program (MNBWP) is an innovative, year-round after-school program serving youth in urban areas throughout the Bay Area. In partnership with the mentoring organization Peacemakers Inc., the MNBWP will provide a unique combination of organized sporting activities alongside a culturally sensitive health and wellness curriculum. It is all supported by individualized mentoring tailored to promote life, social, and academic skills. MNBWP is motivated by the belief that every child can succeed and is entitled to the tools, means, and instruction allowing them to do so. The MNBWP will assist underserved, urban youth build resilience, health, and character in a safe environment, and thereby reduce many of the negative situations associated with living in low-income, urban areas.

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The MNBWP proposed budget is $1.45 million for the support of its work with underserved youth in six different Bay Area cities (Alameda, Marin, Oakland, Richmond, San Leandro and San Francisco).