Spiking for a Cause: Hope From The Heart Volleyball Fundraiser

By Alanna Contreras

In a heartwarming display of solidarity and support, on January 31st, 2024 members of the Hope From the Heart club held a teachers versus students volleyball tournament to raise funds for breast cancer awareness. With passion and purpose, many students from all grade levels and teachers came to support and participate. Their unwavering dedication not only showcased the athletic prowess of our student body but also illuminated the deep-rooted spirit of compassion and community that defines the essence of Hope From the Heart.

President of the club, sophomore Kamryn Tung, showcased her dedication to this event: “The experience was really fun! I had a great time organizing the whole event and even though it was a lot of work, it was for a good cause! I loved working and communicating with so many people and it helped me get to know more people and see their skills. To prepare, I did a lot of stuff like creating the teams, getting volunteers to work tables, getting the gym to let the teams practice, and organizing donations. I spent a lot of time walking around New Rochelle finding donations from local businesses and lots of them gave gift cards which we raffled off! The game was mostly for fun and entertainment, but the main goal was to raise money for breast cancer awareness. A big part of our club is doing events throughout the year and raising lots of money which we donate to a local charity by the end of the year. So at this game, we made a little more than $700 and we hope the number goes up for our charity basketball game in a couple of months.”

Faculty members and students immersed themselves in the excitement of participating in the game, relishing the opportunity to contribute. While fiercely competing against each other on the court, their dedication to winning was matched only by their commitment to raising funds.

¨I was very happy to support a fun event for a good cause. I enjoyed the camaraderie with colleagues trying to beat the students; unfortunately, all our wisdom and strategizing just couldn't overcome the superior skills of our youthful opponents. I wish there were more events like this to support good causes. It was an opportunity to display good sportsmanship and have fun,” said Phil Maresco. 

"I had a great time playing in the Hope for the Heart volleyball game. It was fun getting out on the field for a good cause and spending time with colleagues in a different setting. The student team had excellent serving and impressive, frog-like vertical leaping ability. I'm going to have to do some exercises to strengthen my legs for next year's competition and buy sneakers that enable me to jump higher. Don't publish this part- A couple of the teachers told me that they were sore after just a couple of volleyball games. That's sad. Of course, the faculty would have won, but we didn't want to make the children cry," explained Eric Katz. 

Ellen Salov added, “I loved playing the students vs. teachers volleyball game! I played volleyball for NRHS in the '90s, I also played for SUNY New Paltz, as well as in various adult leagues. But I haven't played in years, so coming back to the gym felt amazing! It was awesome to have fun with my colleagues, and it was a joy to see the athletic talent of so many of our students. I am 100% going to play in any future staff volleyball games!”

Jax Ciscone, a 10th grader who helped volunteer, said, “It felt nice to give back to the community and put a smile on people's faces. I loved seeing everyone having fun, being happy, and raising money for breast cancer because that’s what mattered the most to me.”