Number of Participants: 200
Hours Donated: 2
Value of Time Served: $3,380
Event Amount Raised: $6,300
Event Type: Health & Medicine
Sport: Basketball
School: Yorktown High School
Date: January 12, 2024
Location:
Yorktown Highschool
Crompond Road, Yorktown Heights
NY
About:
The Yorktown High School Boys Basketball program will hold its 5th annual “CharlieStrong” game, an event dedicated to raising funds for Blythedale Children’s Hospital in honor of Charlie DeGennaro, son of Principal Joe DeGennaro.
Charlie, a former Yorktown student-athlete and Class of 2023 graduate, battled transverse myelitis as a freshman. His resilience inspired the creation of this annual event, which has become a meaningful tradition for the Yorktown community.
Last year’s game raised an incredible $6,300, adding to the program’s total fundraising of over $30,000 since the initiative began. The funds will directly benefit Blythedale Children’s Hospital, which provides specialized care and rehabilitation for children with complex medical needs.
Yorktown Head Boys Basketball Coach Mark Pavella launched the “CharlieStrong” initiative four years ago to honor Charlie’s journey and give back to a cause that supported him during his recovery. The event continues to highlight the power of community, teamwork, and compassion.
Thank you to everyone who contributes to this success, whether by attending the game, purchasing t-shirts, or making a donation. Your support makes a lasting impact on the lives of children and families at Blythedale.
Stay tuned for updates, event photos, and a video detailing Charlie’s journey and his connection to Blythedale Children’s Hospital. Together, we embody the true spirit of “CharlieStrong.”
