This year, the charity event will benefit Backpacks For Life, a non-profit founded by Verona High School graduates Brett D’Alessandro and Kevin Clarke to help homeless veterans. “With each backpack, we hope to not only provide homeless veterans with the things they need for daily living but also give them hope and resources for the future,” says D’Alessandro. He and Clarke were recently honored for their efforts with a special dinner at Ariane Kitchen & Bar.
The Bocce Bash, which starts at 9 a.m. and runs until 5 p.m., will feature a day-long festival around the tournament, including food vendors. There will also be a special kids zone including games, face painting, balloons and a bouncy house free of charge from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Back in 2012 the Anthony Fasano Foundation, along with dozens of volunteer workers and contractors, partnered with Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. to build four brand new bocce courts in Verona Park that are the permanent home for the Bocce Bash.
“I look forward to the Bocce Bash every year,” says Fasano. “It’s a great opportunity to get back home and see family and friends while raising money and awareness for a great military charity, Backpacks for Life. I want this to be something the community is excited about every Summer and the Kids Zone allows families to come to Verona Park and experience the Bocce Bash together.”
