What does the foundation do?

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Since April of 2000 The Joe Santacrose Foundation has been helping children in the Broome County Area to afford to play sports, who other wise would not be able to participate. Whether it's soccer, basketball, dance or gymnastics - whatever sport they desire to be a part of - we provide for their tuition, uniform, and any equipment needed because we feel that being able to be involved with sports has a positive and lasting impact on the lives of our young people. Over $5000 in sports scholarships were given out in 2008 alone!

Yearly we give out two $250 college scholarships, renewable for four years, awarded to one boy and one girl who have shown to have good sportsmanship and care for their community.

We strive to remember and represent the spirit of Joe who would often come to the aid of someone in need and who loved sports with a passion.

Who was Joe?

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Joseph Thomas Santacrose was born in Binghamton New York on April 9, 1986 second, by 7 minutes, to his twin brother, Michael. The boys were born to Jim and Norma Santacrose of Endicott who already had two daughters, Theresa and Christian. Three years later little sister Jessica would come along.

Joey showed an early interest in sports, watching and playing. Through grade school he played t-ball, soccer, basketball, golf, and baseball through the Boys and Girls Club. Once in Jr. High he played on the school soccer, track, and basketball teams. In 1996 both Joe and Mike made it onto the USA Force travel soccer team where they made many close friends.

At home Joe enjoyed watching ESPN and his two favorite athletes were Michael Jordan and Bernie Williams. He could always tell you their current scoring and batting averages!

Although sports were at the top of his list of favorites, Joe did like other activities as well. He was an expert on whales and other endangered species, and was very creative often spending time by himself making up stories of adventure. He was always thirsty for knowledge and would often aggravated his older sisters by following them around asking them how things worked and why. He was also somewhat of an artist as you can see in the two drawings pictured here.

Joey was very involved with his large extended family, church and community. At school he was in FCCLA (Future Leaders) and Student Council. His razor sharp wit both endeared him to others and got him into trouble! He was not only funny but also not afraid to stand up for what was right or for the under dog.

Joe died December 27, 1999 from congenital heart disease after collapsing at the end of a soccer game. He wasn't perfect but he was ours and he is missed.