Contra Costa teen tennis player has raised $34,000 to fight hunger
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (August 31, 2022) — For the third year in a row, Lafayette teen Jake Hammerman spent his summer vacation helping fight hunger faced by older adults by teaching young children how to play tennis.
When Covid-19 hit in 2020 and upended everyone’s summer, Jake created Impactful Tennis. His initiative met two needs. He knew that Meals on Wheels Diablo Region helped deliver meals to food insecure elders. He also recognized the increasing demand from seniors affected by the pandemic.
With most youth activities closed, Jake saw a way to use his skills as a varsity tennis player to get young children outdoors. He would teach them to play tennis.
Impactful Tennis gave lessons for free. In turn, parents made a donation in any amount to Jake’s GoFundMe campaign. The money went on to benefit Meals on Wheels Diablo Region. The first summer, with just three teen instructors, he surpassed his $10,000 goal. The effort raised $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. The endeavor paid off with tremendous success.
He did it again
Jake just completed his third summer of Impactful Tennis. Twice as many instructors joined to give 268 lessons. Together they raised $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.”
At time of this story’s posting you can still donate to Jake’s GoFundme by clicking here.