Ryan Kalish in Tanzania: ‘True wealth lies in serving others’

Hai. Former Major League Baseball (MLB) player Ryan Kalish has said that true wealth in life comes not from fame or personal success, but from positively impacting the lives of others.

Kalish played in Major League Baseball for the Boston Red Sox in 2010 and 2012 and for the Chicago Cubs in 2014 and 2016.

A standout high school baseball and football player, he was drafted by the Red Sox in 2006.

Kalish, who rose to prominence in the United States, is currently in Tanzania visiting centres that support children from underprivileged backgrounds.

His aim, he said, is to explore how best to assist them and their families.

On Thursday, July 11, 2025, Kalish visited the New Life Foundation in Hai District, Kilimanjaro Region—a local organisation that supports vulnerable children.

“Fame and popularity may bring personal joy, but they only benefit the individual. When you shift your focus and begin to touch the lives of others, that’s when you experience true wealth,” he said.

He also emphasised the importance of compassion, unity, and community support—values he believes transcend geography and circumstance.

“Since retiring seven years ago, I’ve dedicated my time to seeking Jesus and engaging in community service. I now believe more than ever that the world must come together to show love and kindness, no matter our circumstances or the countries we come from,” he said.

Kalish encouraged Tanzanians to embrace unity and remain proud of their country.

“I urge you to love your country. And even those Tanzanians living abroad—cherish your homeland. I love you all. I love your country. Thank you sincerely for the warmth and kindness you have shown me,” he added.

Speaking about the visit, New Life Foundation president Bishop Glorious Shoo said Kalish’s trip was motivated by a desire to see firsthand the organisation’s work and explore ways to support children in difficult conditions.

“He showed interest in visiting after learning about the work we do here. He wanted to discuss with us and see how we could collaborate—not only in Tanzania, but across Africa,” he said.

According to Bishop Shoo, Kalish and his team have been visiting some of the poorest households in the region as part of their mission to identify areas in need of support and transformation.

“They’re committed to finding the most vulnerable families and exploring how to uplift them. We’re currently in talks to explore how they might assist children here in Tanzania through long-term partnerships,” he said.

Kalish’s visit has been welcomed as a sign of solidarity and shared humanity, reinforcing the idea that global celebrities and athletes can play a meaningful role in advancing social causes far beyond their countries of origin.

His message—rooted in humility, service, and love—has resonated strongly with local communities and organisations alike.