State Rep. Jared Solomon last Friday presented a check for $20,000 to Legacy Youth Tennis and Education for camp scholarships, new equipment, supplies and new instructors.
Solomon was joined at Max Myers Recreation Center, 1601 Hellerman St., by Ron Nano, CEO of Legacy Youth Tennis and Education.
The money comes from state funds.
Legacy Youth Tennis – which has had various names since its founding in 1952 – is celebrating its 70th year.
There are 60 young people, ages 5-18, taking part in the Max Myers program, which runs June 27 to Aug. 5. Participants play once a week, with the two groups divided by age.
Legacy has 20 programs this summer, including ones at Jardel, Boyle, Torresdale and Fox Chase playgrounds.
Solomon described Legacy as the “gold standard” in summer programming, promoting fitness, health, wellness and direction for young people.
“Tennis is the vehicle to get us there,” he said.
Nano thanked the staff for working this summer in the heat. He believes the program plays a role in changing kids’ lives, as working parents can drop off their children in a safe and nurturing environment. The money from Solomon, he said, allowed all children this summer to take part for free.
Solomon said he hopes to help fund a much-needed repaving of the tennis courts at Max Myers. In appreciation for this summer’s donation, Legacy presented him with a T-shirt, along with a onesie for his daughter, Charlotte Sophia, who turned 1-month-old on Friday. ••
