Rhode Island Credit Unions Unite to Strike for Gold
On Wednesday, March 26, the Credit Unions of Rhode Island came together for the 16th annual Strike for Gold bowling tournament in support of Special Olympics Rhode Island. Excitement filled the air at East Providence Lanes in Rumford, RI, as—for the first time—each credit union team became a unified team, a tradition that will now continue for years to come. Each team proudly welcomed a Special Olympics Rhode Island athlete to compete alongside them in the quest for the coveted championship trophy.
With a sold-out crowd of 34 teams and over 150 participants, the energy was electric. At 4 pm, David Dupere, CEO of Wave FCU and RI Social Responsibility Chair, kicked off the event, highlighting the incredible opportunity for teams to connect with and compete alongside Special Olympics athletes.
Throughout the evening, bowlers enjoyed plenty of networking, laughter, and friendly competition. As the night wrapped up, Ed Pacheco, CEO of Special Olympics Rhode Island, expressed his gratitude to the credit unions for their unwavering support. He spoke about how the event was both inspiring and inclusive, reinforcing the power of teamwork and community.
Then came the moment everyone was waiting for—David Dupere proudly announced that this year’s event raised an impressive $21,800, surpassing last year’s total.
Congratulations and thank you to all who participated and supported the bowlers and fundraising efforts. A special thank you to the RI Social Responsibility Committee for organizing such a fantastic event!
First Place Team
Navigant CU - Don Lancellota, Scott Hogeboom, Randy Saccilotto & Justin Hatch.
Second Place Team
Ocean State CU - Kevin Simonelli, Mary Hasney, Kat McConnell, Jowell DaSilva
Top Bowling Score
Coastal1 CU - Kasie Costa
Top Fundraising Individuals
Rhode Island CU - Nancy Zeppa and Navigant’s Lori Jordan
Top Fundraising Team
Rhode Island CU - Nancy Zeppa, Stacy Arnold, Gary Moukharian, Andewele Samuel.
Second Place Fundraising Team
Navigant CU - Lori Jordan, Annette Neimceik, Nicole Soullier, Charlie Zawacki
