Scholarships memorialize youth sports enthusiast

Jeanne P. Alessandro, who was known for her love of sports and family and was a regular at her children's baseball and softball games, is being remembered through scholarships at East Brunswick and Raritan high schools.

EAST BRUNSWICK - A woman who loved sports and family will be memorialized through scholarships given to high school seniors who show exemplary sportsmanship.

The Jeanne P. Alessandro Foundation will provide three $500 scholarships this year to students graduating from East Brunswick High School and Raritan High School, located in Hazlet.

Well loved in her community, Alessandro was a regular at her children's baseball and softball games. She is also remembered for her gentle nature and patience. As an occupational therapist, she assisted those in her care in learning important tools to help them function with their disabilities.

But in 2002, Jeanne was overcome by colon cancer.

Tom Alessandro, Jeanne's husband for 23 years, continues to be involved in East Brunswick sports - coaching baseball at the senior Babe Ruth level and basketball at the recreational level.

"Jeanne had a soft spot in her heart for those in need," Tom said. "She would be touched by the purpose of this foundation, and I am grateful to know how many people remember her goodness and generosity,

by passing it on to others." The purpose of the foundation is to raise and distribute funds for worthy sports-related causes that advance the love of sports, promote sportsmanship, serve as a means of bringing families together, and promote a strong sense of community and fellowship. The foundation also seeks to nurture young people to maximize their potential, build character, understand the value of teamwork, enhance self-confidence and encourage respect for others.

Raritan High School, Jeanne's alma mater, received the first scholarships awarded by the foundation. In 2005 and 2006, two $500 scholarships were awarded, one to a boy who played baseball; the other to a girl who played softball.

The foundation announced that it is expanding its programs to include a $500 scholarship to be awarded to an East Brunswick High School senior involved in sports this year.

Applications for scholarship grants can be obtained in the guidance office of both high schools.

Some of the requirements are that the applicant be a high school senior who was involved in sports, one who demonstrates good sportsmanship and has respect and compassion for others, and is a student in good academic standing.

In addition to scholarships, the foundation board members - Tom Alessandro, Martin Raffel, Basil Kotsis, Wayne Christie, Kevan Lunney, Joel Lunney and Mary Ruggiero - are currently pursuing other ways to reward and encourage sportsmanship, in populations other than high schools.

Those with suggestions for nearby sportsrelated causes to be considered for funding should send an email to JPAFoundation.@yahoo.com.