I M PA C T R E P O R T 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 24
FULL CIRCLE MOMENTS—BOTH HUMBLING AND AFFIRMING—HAVE BEEN A HUGE PART OF MY SQUASHBUSTERS JOURNEY…
Graduating from Bates College and retuning to SQB as a coach with the power to change lives; working and playing alongside my early mentors and junior squash competitors; watching the first class of students that I recruited in Providence graduate high school; and of course, being entrusted with the future of this incredible organization as the new CEO.
Twenty years ago, I was a young kid navigating the streets of Dorchester with a squash bag slung over my shoulder. I never could have imagined life would lead me back to the original source—that I would one day run the program that gave so much to me. Greg Zaff invested in me not just as a student but as a person, becoming a mentor and a second father. The opportunity to carry on his legacy is a deeply personal achievement. I’ve dreamed of running a squash program since high school, but never thought it would be SquashBusters. From the moment I picked up a racquet in sixth grade to the moment I was appointed CEO, my journey has been intertwined with the values and success of this incredible organization. From being part of the first class in the SquashBusters facility at Northeastern, to opening and leading the Providence program, its growth was my growth. Now, as I witness the third building rising in Lawrence, I feel a deep sense of pride and excitement about the future of SquashBusters and I know that SQB and I will once again grow together. As we move forward, I’m committed to embracing the moments of love, belonging, respect, and opportunity that are at the core of SQB and using them as a foundation to inspire and lead with purpose, encouraging our students to take risks and embark on their own transformative journeys. In this year’s Impact Report, you will find other stories of transformation, reconnection, and return. I hope you will take some time to read them, and I look forward to connecting with you this year and in the future.
RO D N EY G A LVAO SQB Boston 2010 CEO
SQUASHBUSTERS 2023-2024 1
SQUASHBUSTERS 2023-2024
A Y E A R I N R EV I EW
2
COLLEGE
CHARACTER
HEALTH
CAREER
➜ All 35 students from the class of 2024 graduated from high school on time and have meaningful post-secondary plans.
➜ 86% attendance rate across all three sites demonstrated commitment to the program and ensured full program dosage.
➜ SquashBusters students engaged in over 1400 hours of squash practice and health and fitness training throughout the year.
➜ 29 students are enrolled in bachelor’s degree programs at schools like Northeastern University, Connecticut College, and Dartmouth College; 6 students are enrolled in associate’s degree programs at schools like Rhode Island Community College, UMass Boston and Northern Essex Community College.
➜ Students engaged in 28 community service opportunities, totaling 300 hours with organizations such as Positive Tracks, Community Servings, and Arbor Hill Assisted Living Center.
➜ SQB teams played in more than 40 local squash matches and tournaments against teams like Dexter Southfield School, St. George’s School, Moses Brown School, and Brooks School.
➜ Students spent over 40 hours in academic and career enrichment sessions with professionals from various fields, including physics, engineering, medicine, and finance.
➜ 78% of the SQB class of 2024 will graduate college with no student loan debt, guaranteeing flexibility in their career choices. ➜ SquashBusters provided over $115,000 in scholarship awards to our post-secondary students.
➜ Over 50 students helped organize the first-ever SQB 5K Run for a Healthy Community, showcasing their commitment to ICARE values and community. ➜ Each student took part in at least one of over 25 team trips offered throughout the year. These included senior trips to Alnoba’s Pinnacle Leadership Foundation, highlevel squash camps in England over the summer, and a special trip to Washington, DC, for a group of academically accomplished students.
➜ Students developed their squash skills in 41 professionally coached clinics and camps. ➜ A total of 87 summer programming opportunities kept students active and engaged throughout the summer, ranging from casual hit-arounds and squash camp at PVD Squash to bike rides and beach trips.
➜ Of the 18 students who graduated from post-secondary programs in 2024 ➜ 8 have secured full-time jobs or internships at companies like EY, The Broad Institute, Wayfair, and Holy Family Hospital. ➜ 5 are exploring further education through graduate programs at institutions like Dartmouth College, Tufts University, Boston University, and Merrimack College.
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SQUASHBUSTERS 2023-2024
IN REMEMBRANCE OF LENNY BERNHEIMER The world lost a gem and SquashBusters lost its loudest cheerleader when Lenny Bernheimer passed away earlier this year. Few people were more instrumental in SQB’s creation and long-term success. Founder Greg Zaff remembers, “I would not have even tried to start SQB without Lenny. He was there from the very beginning, present at the March 1995 Mass Squash board meeting when SQB was first conceived. He was the first person I invited to join SQB’s Board, serving as our Board Chair for 15 years. SQB owes everything to Lenny’s unwavering support and dedication. From day one and for every day of these past almost 30 years, Lenny was there for SQB and for me.” Lenny’s influence extended far beyond the squash court. His involvement with US Squash, the Boston Open, the University Club of Boston, the University Club Pro Doubles Tournament, Mass Squash, the Jesters, Williams College, and SquashBusters showcased his generosity and commitment to the community. Just a few weeks before he passed away, Lenny reached out to Greg to ask about SQB, as he often did. He confided, “Of all the wonderful causes and organizations I have contributed to throughout my lifetime, SQB remains dearest to me.”
SQB’s most devoted supporter, Lenny saddled up his ”horse” in the middle of the pandemic for our virtual Derby in 2021.
And then of course there is his greatest joy, his family—his daughter Beth and son Jon whom he adored, his seven grandchildren, and the love of his life, Lyn, with whom he shared just about every day for more than sixty years. Lenny’s life was a model of kindness, generosity, hard work, honesty, compassion, humility, and dedication. His legacy lives on through SQB, and we are profoundly grateful for all he contributed.
ALANA’S JOURNEY WITH SQUASHBUSTERS STARTED AS A SIXTH GRADER IN LAWRENCE. NOW A SENIOR PREPARING TO APPLY TO COLLEGE, SHE REFLECTS ON HER JOURNEY WITH SQB AND THE IMPACT THE PROGRAM HAS HAD ON HER ACADEMIC AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT.
“More than anything else,” Alana remarks, “SQB has provided me with structure and discipline and a real sense of teamwork. I appreciate how the staff invested time in me, helping me navigate challenges on and off the court, and exposing me to opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise.” Alana was initially drawn to SquashBusters for the supportive staff and fun atmosphere. Her passion for squash evolved over time. Initially, she played for fun, but as she matured, she took the sport more seriously. Squash gave her a sense of purpose, taught her resilience, and helped her form lasting friendships. It also opened doors to unique opportunities, like traveling to Ireland and Amsterdam with other SQB team members to train and compete. Reflecting on her time with the program, Alana says, “Growing up in the program, I had two mentors who significantly impacted who I am today—my teammates Lia and Adrian. Adrian reminded me of my own brother; he always pushed me and wanted the best for me. Lia encouraged me to be more social outside my circle. Her warmth and inclusiveness were inspiring.” Now, Alana is giving back by mentoring Angie, a middle school student. She understands the importance of guidance from older teammates, much like the support she received from Adrian and Lia. Volunteering at a practice for new recruits was a full-circle moment for Alana. “It was surreal to think that I had once been in their shoes—new to squash and receiving help from older students. Now, being in the opposite role made me realize how much I have grown, both on and off the court.” As Alana enters her final year with SquashBusters, she looks forward to playing in the new Lawrence facility, a place she sees as her second home, one she can always return to for years to come.
ALANA M A RT E SQB Lawrence 2025
SQUASHBUSTERS 2023-2024 7
RO C K Y CLARKE SQB Boston 2024
SQUASHBUSTERS 2023-2024
North Carolina A&T 2028
8
ROCKY CAME TO SQUASHBUSTERS AS A SEVENTH GRADER AT THE JOHN D. O’BRYANT SCHOOL OF MATH AND SCIENCE WHEN A FRIEND CONVINCED HIM TO “MAKE SOME NEW FRIENDS AND TRY A NEW SPORT.” WHAT STARTED AS A WAY TO PASS TIME AFTER SCHOOL SOON BECAME AN EXPERIENCE THAT WOULD SHAPE HIS FUTURE.
Rocky quickly became a fixture at SQB and SquashBusters became a refuge, a place where he could stay active and focused even during the uncertain times of the pandemic. His growth, both as an athlete and a person, was evident in many standout moments—such as his comeback from a 2-0 deficit in a challenge match against his classmate and top of the ladder, Haleef. He learned that you need to approach every challenge—on the court and in life—with the same intensity and determination, no matter how unlikely success may seem. Rocky took inspiration from challenges like these and the mentoring and support of staff like former Boston Program Director Mikhail Darlington. Rocky reflects, “Mikhail represents that full circle experience, you know? You see someone the program trained, who now comes full circle as a program director. He’s a leader in the whole urban squash community, and I definitely want to have the same level of impact that he does one day”. Staff like Mikhail and Post-Secondary Director Mai Mitsuyama pushed Rocky to hold himself to high standards academically and professionally. Now, as a freshman at North Carolina A&T, he is pursuing a degree in computer science with the dream of building a successful career and giving back to the community. His work with BYTE Ventures, a nonprofit he co-founded with his mother, reflects
this ambition. Focused on introducing minority communities to coding and STEM fields, Rocky’s leadership role in the organization echoes the mentorship and guidance he received at SquashBusters. Rocky’s story is a testament to the lasting impact of SquashBusters. His advice to current students—take advantage of every opportunity the program offers and stay connected. “You never know where it might take you.” For Rocky, it took him from the courts of Boston to a future full of promise, with the SquashBusters community by his side the entire way.
THIAGO WAS A SHY, INTROVERTED MIDDLE SCHOOLER AT DELSESTO IN PROVIDENCE. BUT WHEN RODNEY AND THE SQB STAFF CAME TO HIS GYM CLASS TO INTRODUCE THE PROGRAM, HE WAS INTRIGUED BY THE CHANCE TO TRY SOMETHING NEW, ESPECIALLY SINCE THE PROGRAM WOULDN’T BE A FINANCIAL BURDEN ON HIS FAMILY. WITHOUT FULLY UNDERSTANDING WHAT LAY AHEAD, HE TOOK A LEAP OF FAITH AND SIGNED UP.
At first, Thiago’s goal was simple—learn a new sport and get good at it. But as time went on, his perspective shifted. What started as a curiosity about squash grew into an understanding of how SquashBusters could help him academically and personally. Even during moments of doubt when he considered stepping away from the program, the unwavering support from the SQB community kept him engaged. A pivotal moment for Thiago came in 8th grade during the high school application process. He struggled with self-doubt, feeling unmotivated and unsure of his chances. But, the guidance and encouragement from SQB staff pushed him to persevere, and he successfully gained admission to a high school that offered new opportunities. Being part of a team was also a new experience for Thiago, who had never played organized sports before. Through SquashBusters, he learned the importance of teamwork, sportsmanship, and community. One challenging match stands out in his memory. “I was down two games and on the verge of giving up. But my teammates were there cheering me on and I found the strength to come back. I ended up winning the match in five games.” This experience was a testament to the self-belief that SQB instilled in him. SquashBusters has provided Thiago with a community that supports and challenges him. The friendships, mentors, and opportunities he’s gained have boosted his confidence and helped him grow. Looking ahead, Thiago is excited to continue improving his squash skills and stay connected to the SQB community that has been so pivotal in his journey.
T H I AG O ZABALA SQB Providence 2025
SQUASHBUSTERS 2023-2024 11
CHARLIE HUMBER
SQUASHBUSTERS 2023-2024
SQB Board of Directors
12
FOR SQB BOARD MEMBER CHARLIE HUMBER, SPORTS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN MORE THAN A PASTIME, THEY’VE BEEN A WAY OF LIFE. GROWING UP IN TORONTO WITH HIS TWIN BROTHER, CHARLIE SPENT HIS DAYS RUNNING, SKATING, SLEDDING, AND CLIMBING. A NATURAL ATHLETE, HE EXCELLED IN MULTIPLE SPORTS IN HIGH SCHOOL AND WENT ON TO CAPTAIN THE BROWN UNIVERSITY HOCKEY TEAM. AFTER COLLEGE, CHARLIE PURSUED A SUCCESSFUL CAREER IN FINANCE, BUT HIS PASSION FOR SPORTS NEVER WANED.
When Charlie returned to the Boston area in the mid-2000s, he joined the University Club and discovered squash. It was there that he met individuals like Amrit Kanwal and John Blasberg, who introduced him to SquashBusters. As Charlie became involved in the Derby, SQB’s biggest annual fundraising event, his connection to the organization deepened. “Part of the reason I enjoyed the Derby every year was getting more immersed in the SQB community,” Charlie recalls. “I’d recognize the students when they came to the UClub, I’d get on the courts with them at Northeastern or see them at tournaments with my own children.” For Charlie, SquashBusters represents more than just squash. It embodies love, gratitude, and appreciation for the adults who guide and support the students—staff, coaches, mentors, and donors alike. One of the most meaningful experiences for him has been watching students, like SQB’s new CEO Rodney, grow from high schoolers into accomplished individuals. “Seeing Rodney progress into who he is today is what SQB is all about for me. It’s about so much more than squash.”
For Charlie, SQB’s mission is deeply personal. “I came from modest means, but my parents gave us a foundation—belief in ourselves, community, and love,” Charlie reflects. “The grounding my parents and mentors gave me directed me down paths I might not have otherwise found. That’s what I see in SQB. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, and it’s fulfilling to pay it forward.” For Charlie, this is a full-circle moment—supporting an organization that offers students the same foundation of community, opportunity, and love that shaped his life.
IN 2019, JOSIAH BENNETT AND GERARDO GARCIA TOOK THE STAGE AS KEYNOTE STUDENT SPEAKERS AT THE SQUASHBUSTERS DERBY, SHARING THEIR STORIES WITH A COMMUNITY THAT HAD PROFOUNDLY SHAPED THEIR LIVES. AS ALUMNI THEIR EXPERIENCES ENCAPSULATE THE FULL CIRCLE IMPACT THE ORGANIZATION STRIVES TO HAVE ON ITS STUDENTS.
Josiah’s path was not always smooth and his perseverance is a testament to the power of community. At one point Josiah found himself at a crossroads, feeling a sense of boredom and contemplating leaving SQB. However, the strong relationships he had built within SquashBusters—friendships that felt like family— kept him rooted. “The people I met and the bonds I formed were what made me stay,” Josiah reflects. His commitment was rewarded when he represented Boston Public Schools at the High School Nationals, where SquashBusters clinched their division. “Winning Division Four at Team Nationals was one of my proudest achievements. It wasn’t just about the victory, but what it represented for all of us at SquashBusters.” Gerardo’s path was marked by both departure and return. Overwhelmed by the demands of a job and the departure of close friends, Gerardo left SquashBusters during his sophomore year, but it didn’t take long for him to realize the mistake. “Leaving felt like the right choice at the time, but I quickly understood what I was missing,” he recalls. His decision to return was pivotal. With renewed focus, Gerardo tackled his academic struggles, eventually earning his first honor roll and qualifying for SEA Individuals—a significant milestone. “The support I received from SquashBusters was a game-changer. It wasn’t just about getting better at squash; it was about growing as a person.” Gerardo’s dedication paid off, leading to a 3.8 GPA during his Foundation Year at Northeastern and a full scholarship. For both Josiah and Gerardo, the friendships formed through SquashBusters have withstood the test of time. Though they don’t talk every day, their bond remains strong, often reconnecting over online video games. These friendships, borne out of countless practices, matches, and team trips, are a testament to SquashBusters, and their experiences exemplify the true essence of what it means to come full circle—growing, returning, and giving back to the community that helped shape them.
G E R A R DO GARCIA SQB Boston 2019 Northeastern University 2024
SQB Boston 2019 Wesleyan University 2023
SQUASHBUSTERS 2023-2024
JOSIAH BENNETT
15
ANGELA B E N I PAYO
SQUASHBUSTERS 2023-2024
SQB Providence 2029
16
the squash court. Her love for the sport is evident in her commitment to improving her skills, and she is excited to continue playing as she transitions into high school. ANGELA’S INTRODUCTION TO SQUASHBUSTERS CAME DURING A ROUTINE DAY AT DELSESTO MIDDLE SCHOOL, BUT IT MARKED THE BEGINNING OF AN EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCE. WHEN THE PROVIDENCE STAFF VISITED TO INTRODUCE STUDENTS TO SQUASH AND THE OPPORTUNITIES SQUASHBUSTERS OFFERED, ANGELA WAS INTRIGUED. DESPITE KNOWING NOTHING ABOUT THE SPORT, SHE DECIDED TO SIGN UP—A CHOICE THAT LED HER TO DISCOVER A NEW PASSION AND SENSE OF BELONGING.
Over the past two years, Angela has developed a deep love for squash and found a supportive community. As someone who has always been shy, she initially struggled to step out of her comfort zone. However, SquashBusters provided a welcoming environment where she felt seen, heard, and valued by her teammates. The friendships she formed—both within the Providence program and with peers from other locations—have become some of her most cherished memories. Participating in the SEA Individuals tournament was a highlight, allowing her to compete and connect with students from Boston, New York, and Connecticut. This experience broadened her horizons and deepened her appreciation for the sport and its reach. Through SquashBusters, Angela has developed skills both on and off the court. Math and English were subjects she initially struggled with, but with consistent practice and support from SQB staff and volunteers, she has made significant progress. Angela now approaches schoolwork with the same confidence she’s gained on
SquashBusters has also instilled in Angela a desire to give back. She hopes to help new members feel as welcomed and supported as she did when she first joined. For Angela, the sense of community at SQB has been transformative, and she’s eager to pass it on to others. Looking ahead, Angela envisions squash remaining a part of her life beyond high school, as she continues to grow both as a student and an athlete.
BRENDA’S JOURNEY WITH SQUASHBUSTERS BEGAN IN THE THIRD GRADE, WATCHING HER OLDER SISTERS PLAY SQUASH. DRAWN BY THE SPORT’S COMPETITIVE EDGE AND THE CAMARADERIE OF THE STAFF, BRENDA JOINED SQB IN THE SIXTH GRADE AND QUICKLY IMMERSED HERSELF IN THE PROGRAM. THOUGH SHE WAS INVOLVED IN SPORTS LIKE TRACK, VOLLEYBALL, AND BASKETBALL, SQUASH CAPTURED HER HEART WITH ITS COMPETITIVE NATURE, DRIVING HER DESIRE TO SURPASS HER SISTERS.
However, her path wasn’t always smooth. Frustrated by losses, Brenda considered quitting several times. The unwavering support of staff members like Vicky and Andrés kept her grounded. They understood her need to cool off after tough matches and always made her feel heard. Through these experiences, Brenda grew as an athlete, learning to manage her emotions and develop resilience. One of Brenda’s most memorable moments was a narrow loss at Urban Team Nationals, nearly causing her to quit. Instead, this moment became a turning point, teaching her accountability, resilience, and grace in defeat. It helped her realize how her actions reflected on her teammates and her community. Now a staff member at SQB Lawrence, Brenda is committed to mentoring current students, just as the staff once supported her. Her understanding of SQB has deepened—what began as a program focused on squash became a comprehensive growth experience. SQB’s influence extended beyond the courts, especially during her college application process, where the program pushed her to apply when she might not have otherwise. Her advice to current students is simple—cherish the relationships, take advantage of the program’s offerings, and stay connected. In her words, “You never know when you’ll need someone.”
B R E N DA HERNANDEZ SQB Lawrence 2021
SQUASHBUSTERS 2023-2024 19
MYRA & J AS O N MU YO N J O
SQUASHBUSTERS 2023-2024
SQB Boston 2027
20
JASON AND MYRA MUYONJO, RISING SOPHOMORES AT SQB BOSTON, EMBODY THE SPIRIT OF DEDICATION AND COMMUNITY THAT DEFINES SQUASHBUSTERS. THEIR INVOLVEMENT WITH SQB BEGAN SOMEWHAT SERENDIPITOUSLY WHEN THEIR FATHER, RECOGNIZING THE ENRICHMENT AND COLLEGE PREP OPPORTUNITIES, SIGNED THEM UP DESPITE THEIR HESITATION.
Their initial reluctance quickly gave way to enthusiasm as they began to forge deeper connections with their peers. Jason notes how the program brought him closer to those he already knew, while Myra found herself growing more confident and outgoing. “Playing squash taught me to be more open to learning new things. It became the best decision I ever made,” she says. Both siblings have set ambitious academic and athletic goals. Myra, who describes herself as “an academic weapon,” aims to maintain a 4.0 GPA, score high on her AP exams, and achieve a top ranking in squash. “I want to be number one on the ladder,” she asserts. Jason, motivated by past experiences, strives for straight A’s and to keep improving his squash game, aiming to win the U17 individuals. They are counting on the support of SQB to help them achieve these goals. Through SQB, the Muyonjo twins have built a strong community that extends beyond Boston. “Now I have friends all over the country, which is crazy,” Myra says. Jason echoes this sentiment, reflecting on how the program has opened doors to friendships throughout the SEA network, broadening his sense of community. Looking ahead, both Jason and Myra are excited about playing college squash and pursuing their academic dreams—Myra in
medicine, while Jason is considering engineering or business. They are confident that SQB will continue to support them through college and beyond. “I know if I’m feeling down, SQB will be there to pick me up,” Myra says, while Jason adds, “It’s like being part of a family.” As they anticipate their own “full circle” moments, Jason and Myra are already planning to give back to the program that has given them so much. Whether through volunteering or donating, they are committed to ensuring that future generations of students can experience the same growth and support that they have enjoyed. In Myra’s words, “One word to describe SQB is community,” while for Jason, it’s simply “caring.”
Creating Extraordinary Opportunities Beyond the Walls of SQB Thanks to your generous support, the Champions League raised $100,000 to fund 40 students this year, and allowed SQB to provide meaningful experiences beyond core programming. Highlights included a training camp where students met squash champion Mohammad El Shorbagy, the SEA Changemakers Tour, academic trips to Washington, D.C., and record participation in national tournaments—culminating in two SEA Individual Tournament wins, our first in 15 years. We look forward to growing this impactful initiative and invite others to join us in empowering future SquashBusters leaders.
2024 Champions League Frank Chalk
Tom Kellogg
Sandy Tierney
Steve Clair
Henry Manice
Andy Walter
Scott DeSantis
Mary McKee
Kincade Webster
Chessin Gertler
Chris McNeil
Rob Wheeler
Bob & Robin Hall
Will Muggia
Simone Winston
Charlie Humber
Andy Neher
Amrit Kanwal
Antoinette Russell
PA RT N E R S FACILITY PARTNERS Boston Northeastern University Lawrence Brooks School Phillips Academy Andover Providence Moses Brown School
PARTNER SCHOOLS Boston Rafael Hernandez School Joseph Lee Elementary School John D. O’Bryant School of Mathematics and Science Public, charter, parochial, and exam high schools across the city
Providence DelSesto Middle School The Met High School
EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING PARTNERS Black Knight Hemlock Ink New Balance ParsonsKellogg
PROGRAMMING PARTNERS Volunteers More than 100 volunteers help out on the court, in the classroom and in various ways throughout the year to make all that we do possible. Thank you to our volunteer squash coaches and mentors, academic tutors, college mentors, Derby, MashUp, and Rumble players, squash and paddle professionals, Marathon Runners, and guest speakers— we couldn’t do it without you! Design Partners Marilyn Humphries, Photography Hemlock Ink Rob Levine, Design
Don Mykrantz, Chair The Jeffrey Company
Jeff Harper Foxfield, LLC
Henry Manice, Treasurer Mighty Squirrel
Charlie Humber Baupost Group
David Antonelli MFS Investment Management
Kat Leiva Cincinnati Squash Academy
Francisco Calderon Compt
Bill Monaghan SevenOne
Michael Davis Northaeastern University
William Paine WilmerHale
Maria Diaz Lawrence Community Leader
Chip Robie Eagle Capital Management
Scott DeSantis Civic Financial
Zoe Russell Equal Justice Works
Jamie Fagan JP Morgan
Michelle Thompson-Dolberry MFS Investment Management
Rodney Galvao SquashBusters
Chandler Willett Cinctive Capital
Chessin Gertler Gertler Clark Foundation
Simone Winston The Newbury Cup
Habib Gorgi Nautic Partners
SQUASHBUSTERS 2023-2024
Lawrence Abbott Lawrence Academy Arlington Middle School Greater Lawrence Technical School Lawrence High School Leonard Middle School Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School
BOA R D O F D I R ECTO R S
23
F I N A N C I A LS
SquashBusters, thanks to our supporters, has maintained a position of financial strength throughout the fiscal year, both on an operating level and in the capital campaign for our future home in Lawrence. Our operating revenues largely held steady versus FY22 and we were fortunate that a strong market gave some extra lift to our overall financial position that the one-time Employee Retention Tax Credit had provided in the prior year. Our main fundraisers, the Derby, the MashUp, and the Rumble, are the backbone of our operating revenue and, once again, our generous donors turned up to support our students through these annual events. Here are a few notes to keep in mind as you review our progress this year: • All numbers come from SquashBusters’ audited financial statements which were approved by the board in April, 2024. • Per FASB rules for non-profits, top-line revenue includes donations, endowment gifts and the full value of any multi-year pledges made in this
SQUASHBUSTERS 2023-2024
fiscal year.
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• Program Services, Fundraising and Management, and General ratios all continue to be in the very healthy range relative to other nonprofits.
TOTAL REVENUE = $6,605,00
Individual, Corporate & Foundation Contributions
1,692,500
Capital Pledges
16% 2,220,000
Net Special Event Income & Program Reimbursement (775,000)
10%
74%
1,917,500
Investment Income
Revenue in Dollars
l Program Services
3,037,000
l Fundraising
636,00
l Management & General
386,00
TOTAL
$4,059,000
YEAR ENDED JUNE 2023
YEAR ENDED JUNE 2022
YEAR ENDED JUNE 2021
Change in Net Assets per Financial Statements
2,546,000
2,609,000
5,192,000
Contributions -- Capital Campaign (see notes)
(2,220,000)
(3,818,000)
(3,232,000)
Contributions -- Anticipated PPP Loan Forgiveness (see notes)
(375,597)
(700,000)
Realized/Unrealized Investment (Gains) Losses
(592,000)
1,472,000
(1,544,000)
Net Investment Income
(183,000)
(83,000)
(99,000)
Lawrence Facility Project Settlement and Write-Off of Fixed Assets (see notes)
497,000
Depreciation Expense
278,000
337,000
313,735
Change in Net Assets from Operations (excluding PPP)
(171,000)
314,000
255,138
SQUASHBUSTERS 2023-2024
Contributions -- Employee Retention Tax Credit (see notes)
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DO N O R S $100,000 + Brooke Bailey & Todd Bourell Richard K. Lubin Family Foundation MFS Investment Management New Balance Foundation
$50,000 - $99,999 Amelia Peabody Foundation
George & Carrie Bell Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island Thomas & Lisa Blumenthal Collis Foundation Cummings Foundation Economic Development & Industrial Corporation of Boston
Stephen & Anne Peacher
Eastern Bank
ECMC
Randy Peeler/ Berkshire Partners
David Ellen
Jack Esselen/The Saint Paul Foundation
Phoebe & John Lewis Foundation
Foundation M
David Fialkow/General Catalyst Partners
Michael Pierce
Floyd Advisory LLC Mark Froot Chris Gordon
Steve & Nancy Fischman
The Plymouth Rock Foundation
Joshua Greenhill
William Poorvu
Justin Harrison
Rhode Island Foundation
William Helman
Charlie Humber
Rhode Island PBS WSBE-TV
Doreen Ho
Hunt Street Fund Inc.
Rogers Family Foundation
David & Hope Jeffrey
Intex Solutions, Inc.
Dennis & Fran Slutsky
Andrew Kane
Haldeman Family Foundation
David & Becky Hamlin
Alex Hurwitz
Chessin Gertler
Tench & Simone Coxe
Robert & Robin Hall
Scott DeSantis/ Civic Financial
Barbara & Amos Hostetter
Kevin Jernigan
Andrew Slutsky
Amrit Kanwal
Samuel Kaplan
Jonathan & Meg Kelly
Digger & Suasan Donahue/Brown Brothers Harriman
Jon & Francie Karlen
Michael & Martha Keating
John Spinney Jr. & Erin Halperin
Lloyd G. Balfour Foundation
Tom Kellogg/ Parsons Kellogg
Loomis Sayles
Joshua Kraft
Henry & Anna Manice
Nancy & Micheal Loucks
Scott & Tanya Martin
Philip & Ellie Loughlin
Don & Susan Mykrantz
Beverly Marram
Robert Reisman
Joshua & Sarah Marston
Highland Street Foundation
State Street Foundation
Massachusetts Charitable Society
Ralph & Janice James/ Robert & Ardis James Foundation
Andrew Walter
The Gorgi Family Jeff Harper/Foxfield LLC Tony Hatoun & Andrea Levitt
Liberty Mutual Foundation
SQUASHBUSTERS 2023-2024
David & Lisa Antonelli
Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation
The Baupost Group
Jamie & Katie Fagan/ JPMC Foundation
26
$25,000 - $49,999
Edward Mank Merriam Family Fund Muggia Family/Westfield Capital Management Peter Palandjian & Eliza Dushku Palandjian Richard & Susan Robie Paul Salem The Weezie Foundation ZOOM Foundation / Steve & Sue Mandel
The Carter Fund
George & Mindy Matouk
Jeffrey Theobald Thomas A. Rodgers Jr Family Foundation Sandy & Cathy Tierney University Club Scholarship Fund
Peter Kelly Wyatt Khosrowshahi Rob Kilgore Seth Klarman Ryan Kramer Mark Kritzman
Chandler & Denele Willett
David Levanson
Adam & Susan Winstanley
Mary & Mike McKee Monderer Foundation Inc.
$5,000 - $9,999
Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island New England Patriots Foundation
William O’Neil + Co.
William & Janice McCall David McGrath
Amica Mutual Insurance Company
$10,000 - $24,999
Stephen Mead
Anchor Line Partners LLC
Brian Peters
Abbot & Dorothy Stevens Foundation
Bill & Alison Monaghan
Anonymous
Tom Poor & Jessie Chai
Jeanne & John Blasberg
Hope & Dave Prockop
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Helen Clement Cook Family DAF Adam Corcoran Adam Craig Crescent Cares Foundation Stefano Crema D’assault Systemes Danielle De Souza Charley Dickey Daniel Doran Philip Doyle Ross Elkin Sarah Emerson Everyone’s A Player Inc. Fidelity Giving Marketplace Michael Field Susan Figenshau Heidi & David Fitz Hugo Foster Chittaranjan Gandi Ronald Garmey Nicolas Giauque Tom Golarz Jillian Golden Green Climate Fund Eric Grossman Polly & Ned Handy Lauren Holleran Gregory Jannetta Edward & Holly Jenkins
Ryan Kim Nancy King Brian Kopperl Barry & Laura Korobkin Steve Lantos Michael Lanza Will MacFarlane Richard Manley Todd Manley Robert & Donna Manning
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$500 - $999
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DO N O R S Andrew Slater
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$250-499 Syed Ahmad Sam Allen Liz Alston Laila Ameri Amins Connect Insurance Services Carey & Gordon Anderson
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Rama Vadlamudi Veson Nautical Melissa Vlak Cynthia Vreeland Jake Walton Robert Wax Harvey Weinberg Michael Weissman Kris Whalen Julia White Pendleton White Lucas Winthrop Theo Woodward Milt Yanofsky Heather Yetman Jasmine Zhou J.L. Zrebiec
T H E N EW B A L A N C E FO U N DAT I O N S Q U AS H BU ST E R S C E N T E R INVESTORS Anonymous (2) Abbot & Dorothy Stevens Foundation Amelia Peabody Foundation David & Lisa Antonelli Todd Bourell & Brooke Bailey George & Carrie Bell John & Jeannie Blasberg John & Pat Chory David Drubner Jamie & Katie Fagan Phill Gross & Elizabeth Cochary Gross Barbara & Amos Hostetter Ralph & Janice James/ The Robert & Ardis James Foundation Tony Hatoun & Andrea Levitt Jon & Francie Karlen Sarah, Ben, & Sam Krapels Alan & Harriet Lewis Michael & Nancy Loucks Richard K. Lubin Foundation
MFS Investment Management Anna & Henry Manice Robert & Heidi Manice Edward Mank Robert & Donna Manning Bill & Alison Monaghan The Muggia Family Tim & Molly Neher New Balance Foundation Peter Palandjian & Eliza Dushku Palandjian Jay & Amy Regan Chip & Susan Robie Rogers Family Foundation Ed & Barbara Shapiro Foundation Sandy & Cathy Tierney The van Otterloo Family Foundation Andy Walter The Weezie Foundation Adam & Susan Winstanley
Special recognition to John Rattigan, Oriana Montani, and DLA Piper for their extraordinary and generous contribution of pro bono legal services to help SQB Lawrence break ground on our new facility.
I M PA C T R E P O R T 2 0 2 3 - 2 0 24
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