‘Boom Boom’ launches charity foundation

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini said that no matter where he lived throughout his career, he always called Youngstown home.

Because home is where his heart is, he has formed the Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini Foundation since he returned to the Valley in November.

While living in California, he thought about forming a charity. Mancini said he realized that his presence was needed more in Youngstown than in California.

So in November 2014, Mancini and his wife, Tina, moved back to Youngstown and revisited the charity idea. In December, the Mancinis, Maria Meadors, Dr. David Weimer, Paul Burgoyne, A.J. Turner and Atty. John Petrony met to discuss the logistics of setting up a charity and what the goals for that charity would be.

Meadors, Weimer, Burgoyne and Turner already were associated with Hope House Visitation Center and presented that idea to Mancini. He liked the idea and decided that he wants to give to charities that do not receive federal funds and depend on the support of the community.

A few of the charities he has decided to support are Hope House, Purple Cat and The Difference Makers. He said he wants to reach out to individuals and/or families who are struggling.

Some upcoming events that the foundation is planning are Curbstone Coaches at Mr. Anthony’s, May 3; an Evening with Youngstown Champions at The Lake Club, May 7; and Men Who Cook at Antone’s, May 16.

For information about the foundation, call Maria Meadors at 330-559-8891.