New Youth Ballfields Open at Cynthia Mann Elementary

The Borbonus Family Foundation funded the project to expand athletic opportunities for kids in North Boise.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Philanthropy

New Youth Ballfields Open at Cynthia Mann Elementary

Live Poll

Do you support private funding for new sports facilities at local public schools?

Two new youth ballfields have officially opened at Cynthia Mann Elementary in North Boise. The project was funded by a grant from the Borbonus Family Foundation to honor the legacy of John Borbonus.

Why it matters

This construction project aims to provide expanded space for local youth athletes to practice and play. It also serves as a permanent community tribute to John Borbonus, a soldier who was killed in action in 2007.

The Borbonus Family Foundation awards more than $1 million annually across Idaho. The new site at the school features updated fencing, bases, and specialized infield dirt for local youth league play.

The players

Borbonus Family Foundation

This organization awards more than $1 million in grants annually to support charitable causes throughout the state of Idaho.

John Borbonus

He was a soldier who died in Iraq at age 19 and was posthumously awarded a Silver Star for his service.

Boise North End Little League

Operating as an all-volunteer organization since 1989, this group manages youth baseball programs for the local community.

The details

The ballfields were opened following a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Boise North End Little League, which has served the area since 1989. These facilities were constructed to specifically support the league's all-volunteer operations in the North End.

Boise North End Little League was founded in 1989.
John Borbonus died in an explosion in Iraq on April 12, 2007.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new ballfields took place on October 20, 2026.

Market Landscape

This development reflects a trend of private family foundations investing in public school infrastructure to bolster community sports programs. Such projects position the local Little League to expand its capacity against growing regional demand for youth recreational space.

Families in the North Boise area gain immediate access to upgraded facilities for youth baseball activities at Cynthia Mann Elementary. The project ensures that local athletes have higher-quality fields without requiring additional league fees.

The takeaway

Communities often find meaningful ways to honor the legacies of fallen veterans through infrastructure that benefits future generations. Residents looking to support similar local efforts can reach out to neighborhood leagues to learn about ongoing volunteer or donation opportunities.