Grassroots Coaches Circle Members are Essential to Our Work

If you’ve heard the words “Grassroots Coaches Circle” floating around but are wondering, “what exactly is that?”, then you’ve come to the right blogpost. The Coaches Circle is an honorary group open to all TGP supporters who make a recurring, monthly donation. Members choose the amount they contribute and can come and go from the circle at any time. We caught up with two of our most loyal members to hear their stories and learn why they give!

Paulette Cocco

Hey Paulette, tell us a little bit about your story!

In 2017 I set out to run a marathon, my first. I wanted the goal race to be special. Through a friend of a friend, I was introduced to running the Marines Corp Marathon with The Grassroots Project. I have a heart for local charities so I was excited to learn more about TGP. It doesn’t take long to catch the enthusiasm and vision from Tyler and Jane. Plus they are fun people to hang out with. I knew immediately that this was an organization I wanted to support. I ran MCM with TGP again in 2018. Running a marathon gives you a special connection with a city; supporting a local charity takes that bind to a whole new level.

What do you love about Grassroots?

I love that Grassroots is making a difference in DC schools. I am from the Midwest but it’s always bothered me that DC is the gathering place of our nations top leaders, and yet, the city is one the most divided, neglected cities in our country. It really bothers me! How can these leaders change a country when they can’t even serve and improve a city? I love the creative way Grassroots has found to influence the Jr High and HS students by infusing college students, athletes into their lives as mentors. It is good for the younger students but it is also good for these young adults. I would guess the college students are as impacted for life as the people they serve.

You’re our longest recurring donor ever (Thank You!) Why do you continue to give generously?

I give because I have a heart for DC and the inner cities in general. As a middle aged, white woman from the Midwest I do not have a voice in these kids lives, but I can support and encourage those that do.

Anything else?

I trust the leadership at Grassroots. Tyler, Jane and others have proven they believe in this organization. They are continually looking to improve and expand TGP influence in the lives of the next generation living in the inner cities. If you are reading this, and you do not support TGP in a regular, meaningful way, then I ask, “What’s stopping you? If you have been impacted by Grassroots in any way, then please give something so that others can benefit too.”

Michael Bourie

Many of us know you, but some don’t! Tell us a little bit about your story and what you’re up to now.

I am a graduate of George Washington University (‘15) and was briefly on the men’s crew team before a back injury forced me to retire. i work for both oysters xo and Hyperice, and i live in Denver with a fellow TGP alum (we actually even coached a program together back in 2015). I also competitively train and race marathons in my spare time.

What first drew you to TGP, and what makes you continue giving back?

Cameron Chen, an upperclassman on the crew team, brought me into Grassroots my freshman year. the team-like camaraderie and energy at TGP kept me coming back. I continue to stay involved and give back in hopes that other, current student athletes can have as influential an experience through TGP as I had.

Any advice for student-athlete coaches and/or students?

After graduating, my experience at TGP provided me the opportunity to work for Amandla Edufootball in South Africa. Never underestimate the experiences and opportunities provided at and through TGP!