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When COVID-19 hit in 2020 and upended everyone's summer, Jake created Impactful Tennis - an initiative that met two needs. He knew that Meals on Wheels Diablo Region helped deliver meals to elders who are food insecure and he recognized there would be an increasing demand from seniors who were affected by the pandemic. Also, with most youth activities closed, he saw a way to use his skills as a varsity tennis player to get young children outdoors, learning how to play tennis.
Impactful Tennis gave lessons for free, and in turn, parents made a donation in any amount to Jake's GoFundMe campaign to benefit Meals on Wheels Diablo Region.
The first summer, with just three teen instructors, he surpassed his $10,000 goal raising $15,000 in the first four days of lessons. In the summer of 2021, he increased the number of instructors from his varsity tennis team at Campolindo High School and again met with tremendous success.
Jake just completed his third summer of Impactful Tennis, with twice as many instructors giving 268 lessons and raising $11,125. In total, Jake has given 808 lessons and raised $34,725.
"I'm so glad this money is going to a terrific cause and am grateful that I found a way to contribute," says Jake.
Jake's efforts earned him an interview on Good Morning America, and he was awarded the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 2022 Youth Hall of Fame Volunteerism Award, which recognizes young people who have a commitment to service and community.
"The demand for meals remains high as the senior population continues to increase," says Caitlin Sly, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels Diablo Region. "The funds that Jake has raised from Impactful Tennis has had a significant impact, allowing us to deliver more meals to more elders. He's an amazing young man."
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA