The Parkesburg POINT announces fall fundraiser

Super Bowl champion coach, sports analyst and author Tony Dungy will be the keynote speaker at The Parkesburg POINT's annual fall fundraiser.

"A Night With Tony Dungy" will be presented on Monday, Nov. 4, at 7 p.m. at Coatesville Area Senior High School, 1445 Lincoln Highway East, Coatesville. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.

Dungy is the latest in a long line of sports figures that have spoken at The POINT's fall fundraiser. Past speakers have included former NFL players Tim Tebow and Brian Dawkins. The POINT was able to secure the speakers with the help of sports radio talk show host Rob Maaddi, who has a syndicated talk show, "Faith on the Field." Maaddi will also be featured at the upcoming event.

All speakers "align with the values" of The POINT, according to Dwayne Walton, executive director. "We're excited. (Dungy) is so respected in the world of sports not just as coach but a mentor," said Walton. "He has written several books to challenge people to be leaders. Anyone that knows the NFL and sports respects him."

Former Eagles coach Dick Vermeil is scheduled to introduce Dungy at the event. "(Vermeil) is a wonderful man, and he and Tony are good friends," noted Walton.

Walton said that it is especially fitting to have a coach speak at a fundraiser that will benefit youths. "Coaches are so important to the demographic we work with. Coaches encourage (student-athletes) to also focus on their academics and get them graduated," said Walton. "Our kids matter, and we want to do whatever we can to keep them ahead of the game. There are obstacles, but together we can help them through the obstacles."

Players and coaches from throughout Chester County, including the Coatesville and Octorara Area School districts, have been encouraged to attend. "We serve Coatesville and Octorara students (at The POINT), but other students throughout Chester County need that message of hope, and Tony will bring it and hopefully it will resonate with them," said Walton. "Bringing people like Dungy in matters. He will bring a message of hope."

All proceeds from ticket sales will benefit The POINT, located at 700 Main St., Parkesburg. The POINT provides a variety of programs and services for students in grades two through 12 such as offering a healthy dinner during the school year and both lunch and dinner during the summer. The POINT also offers sports and recreation programs, including basketball, boxing, soccer, gaga ball and flag football, as well as hands-on job training.

"From January to now, we registered over 700 students, which does not count the weekend sporting events. We serve 20,000 meals every year," Walton reported. "We are growing exponentially, and to keep up with the growth we need the support."

The POINT also offers opportunities for students to serve the community. "In September, we took 10 students from Collegium Charter School, Coatesville, Octorara and Conestoga Christian School to Montana to serve at the Crow Indian Reservation," Walton said. "Some of these kids are beaten down with challenges, but they were inspired to serve and help others."

"Native American reservations are the toughest places with a lot of poverty," he continued. "(Students from The POINT) played basketball with the young people to connect and develop relationships. Kids traveling to serve others is something we can all applaud."

In an Instagram post, Dungy expressed his excitement about speaking in Chester County, noting he has an affinity for Pennsylvania because of his time spent playing with the Pittsburgh Steelers. "I'm excited to really share the message of hope and the Gospel," he stated. "Our young people need to get that message, and I hope we can get pastors and caring adults to bring young people (to the event). Yes, it is a sports fun night, but we will hear a Gospel message ... and it will be impactful for the rest of your lives."

Tickets can be purchased through noon on Nov. 4. No tickets will be sold at the door. For tickets or more information, visit www.parkesburgpoint.com or http://www.facebook.com/parkesburg.point. Those with questions may call The POINT at 610-857-3393.