I think it depends what you are trying to promote. For example: I worked in marketing at a fast food company and we did sponsor heaps of kids with branded shirts and food vouchers every week. We gave away thousands of dollars in free food. I dont believe it made any difference to whether people developed any loyalty for our product. And when we said no and didnt give any vouchers, they just went straight to McDonald's and asked them. Also, with childhood obesity being such a public issue now I would definitely discourage food companies from this type of sponsorship.

I would recommend looking for other ways of sponsorship (ie not kids) - look at your product, your audience and work out a method connection that will encourage the best result for your marketing goals.

If your local little league is a member of the National Little League Association they are required to have a Board of Directors who should be able to help you. If this information is not on their website, ask the coaches who the league President is.

Depending on the league, you can "sponsor" a team and have your name on the shirts and/or by advertising on dugout and outfield signs, website etc.

Our legaue (I coach) sell advertising on the outfield fence, website, dugout, etc.

I like your idea of helping kids who might not be able to afford to play. Perhaps your company could develope a "scholarship" or "adopt" a kid program where you also help buy equipment for certain kids - the league should support you in this. It is always very sad when kids can't play becasue it cost too much to join or they join but don't show up with a golve becasue they can't afford one!

Most leagues are oprtae on a shoe string budget and anything you can do to help would be apperciated. Perhaps join the board and help drum up more advertisers!