Don Ferrarese's Legacy of Giving: $1.1 Million Raised for Local Charities

Strategic Insights -

Over the last 20 years, Don Ferrarese and his friends have been hosting charity auctions in Apple Valley, which have raised more than $1 million for local causes, including the Veterans Tribute, Moses House, and Santa's Sleigh Toy Drive. In recognition of Ferrarese's tireless efforts, a group of his friends established the Don Ferrarese Charitable Foundation in 2004, which has awarded $150,000 in scholarships to 38 senior students from High Desert high schools for their charitable work and community service.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Don Ferrarese Charitable Foundation has given over $1.1 million to local charities since its inception.
  • 38 senior students from High Desert high schools have received $4,000 each in scholarships for their charitable work and community service.
  • The foundation focuses on rewarding students who have accrued 200 hours or more of community service.
  • Don Ferrarese, now 80 years old, has sat on the boards of 11 different charitable organizations and has no paid compensation for his volunteer work.
  • Ferrarese's upbringing by Italian immigrant parents instilled in him a strong sense of community responsibility to help others in need.
  • The foundation's president, Dan Tate, credits Ferrarese's commitment to helping others as a key factor in its success.

Statistics:

  • Over $1.1 million raised for local charities since 2004.
  • 38 senior students awarded $4,000 each in scholarships for a total of $150,000.
  • 200 hours or more of community service required to qualify for scholarships.
  • 11 charitable organizations with which Ferrarese has been involved.
  • 59 years of marriage to Betty Ferrarese.

Sources:

  • "Ferrarese's Lifetime of Giving," Byline and article, Victorville Daily Press, 2009
  • Interview quotes from Don Ferrarese and Dan Tate, Victorville Daily Press, 2009
  • Statistics on charity auctions and scholarships, Victorville Daily Press, 2009
  • Picture caption: "Former Major League baseball pitcher Don Ferrarese"...