The 4th Annual Chester County Doubles Tennis Tournament was in full swing over Labor Day weekend, with support from USTA Middle States and Tennis Addiction Sports Club. The tournament, run by Event Chairperson T.T. Krishnagopal and Tournament Director Anthony Dececco, was held indoors at Tennis Addiction in Exton, raising over $7,000 for VEP. Tournament organizers were presented with a Certificate of Recognition from Chester County Commissioner Eric Roe for their outreach to the community over the past few years. All proceeds benefited the Volunteer English Program and the West Chester Food Cupboard.
This could not have been achieved without the support of sponsors and individual donations.
Sponsors:
Tennis Addiction
USTA Philadelphia Area District
Crimson Review
USTA Middlestates
Kimberton Wholefoods
Wegmans
Traders Joe
Frazer Dental Care
Performicon
Lowes
Home Depot
Taylor’s Music Store & Studios
Everyone’s Racquet, NJ
Frog Hollow Racquet Club
Tennis Essentials
UPenn Tennis
Tennis Warehouse
Tennis Hall of Fame, Rhode Island X Golf
Level 7 Tennis
To make a donation, visit 4th Annual Chester County Tennis Open Tournament.
The 3rd Annual Chester County Open Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles Tennis Tournament, in association with Tennis Addiction and Pennypacker Country Club, returned to play the weekend of August 18th, 2023. Thank you to TT Krishnagopal, Anthony DeCecco, and the entire Tennis Tournament Committee for their hard work in organizing the tournament, which brought together community members to benefit the Volunteer English Program and the West Chester Food Cupboard.
VEP is grateful for the recent grant towards our general operating fund from the Harry Chapin Foundation, whose mission is to support organizations that have demonstrated their ability to dramatically improve the lives and livelihood of people by helping them to become self-sufficient.
Research has shown that learning music and acquiring a new language engage similar pathways in the brain. Mastering an instrument or song and a language both involve the intricate coordination of auditory perception, memory, pattern recognition and emotion. Together, we celebrate the ways in which music, philanthropy, and volunteerism continue to move hearts and minds around the world.
When the Chester County community opens its doors to those seeking refuge from war, freedom from persecution, and relief from economic hardship, individuals turn to the Volunteer English Program for help.
This past year, VEP created pathways for 280 adult English language learners through the commitment of volunteer tutors, a 14% increase in demand since the pandemic began three years ago. As global crises forced millions from their homes in Ukraine, Afghanistan, West Africa, and throughout Latin America, VEP remained at the forefront, responding with compassion and innovation locally.
Once here, immigrants still face hurdles imposed by not having the words, understanding, or acceptance in their new communities. With an urgency to survive and a willingness to learn, VEP students courageously work to redefine their sense of home while reclaiming independence in their roles as parents, breadwinners, and individuals, now living in America.
Today, there are 196 active adult learners with over 100 more individuals still waiting for tutors. Over 60% of our current participants have families with children. Close to 75% face financial challenges living in Chester County, made more difficult with limited English proficiency.
The Volunteer English Program offers a vital link to success through language. Immigrants are then able to use their unique skills and talents, helping to make our communities places of peace and acceptance.
~Winter, 2022