The Cooperative Credit Union Association’s (CCUA) Credit Unions of Rhode Island and Special Olympics Rhode Island (SORI) celebrated the success of the 16th Annual Strike for Gold bowling tournament on March 26th at East Providence Lanes in Rumford, RI. In a vibrant display of community and inclusion, 34 teams and over 150 participants gathered for an evening of friendly competition, networking, and support for SORI athletes—raising nearly $22,000 at this milestone event.
For the first time in the tournament’s history, each credit union team was joined by a SORI athlete, transforming the competition into a unified team effort. This new format not only amplified the spirit of inclusion but also fostered lasting connections between credit union leaders and SORI athletes.
“For years, the Credit Unions of Rhode Island have supported our Special Olympics athletes, and we are thrilled with the success of the Strike for Gold tournament,” said Ed Pacheco, President and CEO of Special Olympics Rhode Island. “They raised critical funds while uniting our athletes with credit union employees for a fun, inclusive day of bowling. We deeply appreciate their partnership and commitment to our community.”
This annual tournament marks another milestone in a longstanding tradition of community support and partnership showcasing the credit union difference.
“We are deeply committed to working with our member credit unions to make a real impact in the communities they serve, and I extend sincere gratitude to the Credit Unions of Rhode Island and Special Olympics Rhode Island for their steadfast support,” said Ron McLean, President and CEO of the CCUA. “Together, we’re not just raising funds—we’re building a community that embraces diversity, inclusion, and shared success.”
“Rhode Island’s credit unions are proud to stand with Special Olympics Rhode Island athletes, and by fostering inclusion and creating opportunities for all, we united our teams at our 16th Annual Credit Unions of RI Bowling Tournament,” said David P. Dupéré, President and CEO of Wave Credit Union and Chair of CCUA’s Rhode Island Social Responsibility Committee. “Our continued commitment reflects the credit union industry’s core values of collaboration, compassion, and making a positive community impact.”
Congratulations to the winning teams and individuals:
- First Place Team: Navigant Credit Union – Don Lancellota, Scott Hogeboom, Randy Saccilotto & Justin Hatch
- Second Place Team: Ocean State Credit Union – Kevin Simonelli, Mary Hasney, Kat McConnell, Jowell DaSilva
- Top Bowling Score: Coastal1 Credit Union’s Kasie Costa
- Top Fundraising Individuals: Rhode Island Credit Union’s Nancy Zeppa and Navigant’s Lori Jordan
- Top Fundraising Team: Rhode Island Credit Union – Nancy Zeppa, Stacy Arnold, Gary Moukharian, Andewele Samuel
- Second Place Fundraising Team: Navigant Credit Union – Lori Jordan, Annette Neimceik, Nicole Soullier, Charlie Zawacki
The unity and generosity shown at Strike for Gold exemplify the ongoing promise of the CCUA’s Rhode Island’s credit unions and Special Olympics Rhode Island to fostering an inclusive and compassionate community. Save the date for the 17th Annual Strike for Gold tournament: March 25, 2026.