My philosophy of education is simple:  I believe that lack of education is the root of most of the troubles in this country. Educating our youth will help reduce crime, poverty and violence. 

The U.S. public school system guarantees all school-aged children, even those with learning disabilities, a “free and appropriate public education.” Education is primarily a State and local responsibility in the United States. It is States and communities, as well as public and private organizations of all kinds, that establish schools and colleges, develop curricula, and determine requirements for enrollment and graduation.
Unfortunately, due to economic funding, lack of resources and teacher quality issues in our country, many children today do not receive an adequate education.

To that end I have committed myself to helping where I can. For the last decade, I've been on the Board of the Joe DiMaggio Committee, the fund raising arm of my alma mater, Xavierian High School in New York City which raises money to help financially challenged families give their children a good education.

I also serve as Chairman of the Board for Children of the City, a grassroots non-profit that that has served the children and families of Southwest Brooklyn for more than two decades, and has been successful in breaking the cycles of poverty. The organization uses home visits to connect individual children and families with the programs and resources to empower them with the skills to overcome poverty. Children of the City strives to change the culture of poverty.

Outreach, counseling, and support instigate positive changes among students:

• 100% students tested increased in *DRA by 1 level over 8 weeks.
• 20% increased by one grade level.
• 97% said they were more comfortable and confidence in math.
• 50% felt the program deterred them from drug use and gang activity.
• 81% said they had set new life goals.

*Developmental Reading Assessment

Life is a learning experience.  If we pay attention, we can each learn something beneficial every day. By participating and helping to guarantee better education, I believe we can create a new culture of prosperity. You too can make a difference.  
  Rocco Basile

If you, or your non-profit organization are involved in any events, projects or activities that are of benefit to the children of New York City or want to help participate in our charity, please contact Children of the City.