Our Glimmer of Hope - Austin Tennis Academy Campaign

Through the Austin Tennis Academy's work with A Glimmer of Hope Foundation, they give back to the community by helping A Glimmer of Hope fulfill its mission. Working with organizations like A Glimmer of Hope's Camp Glimmer, the coaches, parents, players, and members of the community who support the Foundation help make a difference in many lives.

Over the past four years, the academy has raised more than $300,000 to build eight water wells, a health clinic and two schools in rural Ethiopia. In 2008 alone, the Playing for Glimmer campaign raised over $150,000.

One of the campaign's organizers was 14-year-old Josh Hagar and he was on the trip to Ethiopia this summer.

"We're so privileged here to have running water, electricity, a place to sleep. They're just basic things we take for granted that people in Ethiopia don't have," said Josh, who was recently personally congratulated for his efforts by sporting icon Billie Jean King.

The man behind the academy's unique culture is Head Coach and CEO Jack Newman.

"What we're trying to do here is mold citizens of significance rather than ones simply of accomplishment. And, tennis is one of the best tools I've found to help shape a student's character," Newman said.

Newman has now been to Ethiopia twice with A Glimmer of Hope, the organization he chose because of its efficient model and promise to deliver 100% of every donation to the projects.

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• A Glimmer of Hope
• ATA
• Austin Tennis Academy
• Ethiopia
• Camp Glimmer
• Austin
• Texas