JTCC’s Pasquale Procaccino hosted a Game On! fundraiser on Friday, May 24
Tenacious. Philanthropic. Altruistic.
These characteristics rarely define a teenager. But Pasquale Procaccino of the Junior Tennis Champions Center is not your typical 13-year-old.
In a sport that by its nature engenders selfishness, Pasquale decided instead to lend a helping hand. Last Friday, May 24, he organized a fundraiser at the Royal Restaurant in Alexandria, Virginia to benefit JTCC’s Game On community outreach program. The restaurant generously donated 10% of each check to the cause.
“I invited my entire school,” said Pasquale. “Then I followed up with a phone call to each student.”
The burgeoning marketer also placed calls to local newspapers and met with JTCC CEO Ray Benton to discuss a plan of attack.
“All proceeds will benefit after-school academic and tennis instruction at CAPCS [Community Academy Public Charter School], one of 11 Game On! sites,” said Pasquale. “The response has been overwhelming. Before the event, I received over $500 in checks.”
Pasquale is a member of the Champions program, an invite-only high performance training regimen. As a requirement, each Champion player has to visit a Game On! site eight times per year. At the site, they serve as mentors and leaders for at-risk youth.
“Last summer, I visited CAPCS and was taken aback by the state of their tennis courts,” said Pasquale. “The courts were unplayable. Weeds were growing out of control. There was trash everywhere. I wanted to take action.”
Pasquale’s efforts fetched nearly $1,500 in donations. On the heels of a successful fundraiser, he remains steadfast in his commitment to re-surface the CAPCS courts.
“I am already planning the next event and I know I will reach my goal.”
