December 10, 2008
CSC Establishes the John Ruggiero Grant
As many of our friends and family know, John strongly believed in the impact sports has on children’s development. Whether he was coaching CYO and AAU men’s and women’s teams, PAL softball or JV basketball at St. John’s High School he taught more than just the sport; he taught his players about life. This year, with the help of Children's Sport Connection, a non profit that provides opportunities for underprivileged youth to participate in sports programs, we have identified a young child in need.
A local single parent raising three sons has had to foreclose on her home twice in five years. Funds that were previously provided to the family for sports activities have been completely depleted.
In memory of dad, the Children’s Sport Connection has established the John Ruggiero Grant. This holiday season we are raising money for this grant to help provide fees for the parent’s youngest son to continue participation in his travel hockey league.
We understand these are trying times, but if you would like to donate, checks can be payable to: Children’s Sport Connection.
Children's Sport Connection and it's founder, Patricia D'Accolti, have appeared in many local newspapers as well as the television station, News 12.
The recognition CSC receives has been astonishing. In June 2008, Executive Director, Patricia D'Accolti, was recognized by the Long Island Press as one of the most influential business women on Long Island. This honor is only granted to 52 women per year.
There is a lot of work still to be done and with the public recognition CSC receives, it leads to more and more positive role models lending their hands to support children in need.