Though there are community rec programs, youth baseball and youth softball programs around the world, there are a lot of communities that "think they have Little League" for their kids, when, in fact, they are not chartered and are not legally part of Little League! 

Little League is a Federally-chartered non-profit entity - and only leagues chartered with Little League Baseball can legally use the trademark names "Little League," "Little Leaguer," "Challenger Division," and several other specific combinations.  In fact the terms are protected by the Federal Government.  For further information specific to the use of trademark names and legal matters, please go to:  http://www.littleleague.org/about/federal.asp
So, if you're curious ... 

Is your "league" required to run background and sex offender registry checks through ChoicePoint on all volunteers who will be working with your kids on a regular basis?

Are your kids wearing the Little League Patch on their uniform? 

Are games played by the published Little League Baseball or Softball Rules and Regulations?

Are the 9-18 year olds eligible for selection to post-season teams that play in Little League tournaments at the District, State, Regional or International level? 

Are your kids covered by Little League's Insurance?

Is your "league" involved in the Little League "A Safety Awareness Plan"?

Is there an emphasis n training managers and coaches in safety & fundamentals of the game?

Are you part of the largest CHILD DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM that just happens to use sports to reach that goal?

If not, check out ... http://www.littleleague.org/media/whyaffiliate.asp
    and let us welcome you on board!