Annual Poker Tournament Raises $96,000 For Special Olympics

An annual poker tournament hosted by two retired Santa Clara police officers raised nearly $100k for Special Olympics of Northern California.

Four thousand dollars short of their goal, but they’re not giving up hope. Retired Santa Clara police officers Frank Saunders and Johnny Fanucchi are still hoping that this year, some donor will come through and help them achieve their dream of raising $100,000 in one year for the Special Olympics of Northern California (SONC).

Every year for the past 12 years, Fanucchi and Saunders have co-hosted an annual poker tournament with all the proceeds benefiting the SONC.

It started out, as things sometimes do, with a bit of bragging and a challenge.

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“We went to an event … we were sitting there, and we said, ‘Hey, it was cool. They didn’t have food. They didn’t have this. They didn’t have this.’ And then a girl from Special Olympics goes, ‘Are you done with your foot in your mouth?’ And she goes, ‘You have one year to have a Special Olympics poker tournament,’” recalled Saunders with a laugh.

From there, the event was born. Fanucchi and Saunders hosted the first event at the Santa Clara Police Officers Association Union Hall and raised $20,000. They upped the ante a few years later and moved to the Triton Museum. Most recently, the stakes were raised again, this time, moving to Wedgewood Boulder Ridge in the Almaden Valley.

“It’s an amazing event. We’re so successful because of the big hearts that come and join us, and really, that’s what helps us grow and really fulfill all of the dreams. And it’s special, so it touches my heart,” said Fanucchi.

Giving is right. Maggiano’s has donated food for the event every year since its inception. Other local businesses have also donated since then. This year, Santa Clara’s own Rocko’s Ice Cream donated dessert, while Blue Dog Events donated the dealers.

Several local businesses bought tables, including sponsors like Joseph J. Albanese Inc., Lima Towing Services, LLC, Unique Towing and Mari Rossi. The police union and firefighters also purchased tables, sparking a bit of friendly competition.

“There’s firemen and because they need idols and we’re the policemen,” said Saunders with a laugh. “When we get to the police and fire, there’s a little bit … everyone loves a fireman and we love the police. It’s a good … I hope a policeman wins tonight.”

Saunders got his wish. Santa Clara police Lt. Dustin Silva won. His second time in the last three years.

But the real winner was SONC and its athletes.

“This is my first time [at the poker tournament]. I love it, seeing all these people help out for Special Olympics. I love it. It’s amazing,” said Jennifer “J Lo,” who has competed in the Special Olympics in softball, soccer and flag football for several years.

“I just want to have fun and who knows, play a little poker here and there maybe,” said 21-year-old Dashiell, who competes in bowling and also plays on the Earthquakes soccer team.

“We’re here for a purpose. We’re here to raise money, bring awareness to all the good work that’s being done in the Special Olympics,” said Stefanie Bruggeman, the senior vice president for SONC. “That kind of work brings visibility to individuals with disabilities, builds confidence, builds social connections, health and well being.”

Even though the tournament is over, you can still help Fanucchi and Saunders reach their goal. Just visit https://support.specialolympics.org/a/northern-california and add “Frank’s Poker Tourney for 9/11” in the notes and they’ll get credit for the donation.