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. 

To that end I have committed myself to helping where I can.  For the last eight years, 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.

Much of what we learn, we learn from our mistakes.  I am thankful that I have learned from my mistakes to become the type of man I can be proud of today.  Like many of the youth I meet today, I made mistakes along the way.  My goal is to let them know that mistakes are part of life.  What you choose to do about these mistakes is what defines you.

My family is very important to me.  I once read a book that said; "Be the man that you want your daughter to marry."  Great quote!  One that I try my best to live up to every day. 

Life is a learning experience.  If we pay attention, we can learn something beneficial every day.  One of my more meaningful learning experiences is from a passage in Steven Corey's book, "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People," which asks that you begin with the end in mind.  Corey has you imagining your own funeral and what your friends and relatives are saying about you.  This passage was an epiphany for me, for there was a time when no one would have come to my funeral, much less had something nice to say about me.  I've worked long and hard to make amends and am happy for the peace I have found in giving to others.  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.