The True Foundation
The True Lacrosse Foundation provides first-time access to the sport of lacrosse, focusing on holistic support to the students we work with.
Our Mission
At the True Lacrosse Foundation, we believe every child should have the opportunity to experience the game of lacrosse regardless of economic circumstances. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, our mission is to reshape the future of the sport by providing free year-round programming and meaningful support systems for youth from a wide range of socio-economic backgrounds. Through partnerships with schools and community organizations, we introduce lacrosse in underserved areas while emphasizing mentorship, foundational skills, personal growth, and community pride.
Our Pillars of Support
Providing free year around after-school introductory programming to the sport of lacrosse.
Pairing students with mentors on and off the field to support their holistic growth.
Offering scholarship opportunities to support need based athletes in pursuing their passion for lacrosse through advanced or travel-based programs.
Academic support and structure through partnerships with schools and in-class tutors.
Equipment drives and gear support for athletes in need.
Providing coaching and mentoring outlets for active, lacrosse-focused community leaders
Who We Are
Jim Pursley
Chairman
A Chicago resident and proud father of three boys, one of whom plays competitive lacrosse, Jim is the President of Hinge Health. Before joining Hinge, he served as the Chief Commercial Officer for Livongo Health, playing a key role in establishing the company as a global industry leader. Jim strongly believes in the value of sports in providing additional support and purpose to youth.
Thomas Moriarty
Executive Director, True Lacrosse Foundation
Thomas, a proud Maryland native, joined the True Lacrosse Foundation in Autumn 2023, bringing with him years of experience in youth non-profit work and project development. His passion for empowering youth began with teaching summer classes and leading field trips for students from Southeast D.C. Before joining The True Foundation, Thomas served as the program director and founder of the Mentor+ initiative for the Youth Leadership Foundation. The initiative aimed at establishing accessibility to after-school programs for students from lower-income households in the D.C. and Baltimore areas. Under his leadership, the initiative experienced remarkable annual growth, evolving from just a few students meeting twice weekly to one of the region’s foremost outdoor education and recreation programs. Thomas holds a Bachelor of Science from Appalachian State University.
Contact: thomas@truelacrossefoundation.org
Board of Directors
Jennifer M. Smoter
Vice Chairman
Jennifer, a proud mother of three boys, two of whom are competitive lacrosse players, serves as the Chief Communications Officer and Senior Vice President, at United Health Group. She is passionate about accessibility and youth development and brings years of experience from various leadership positions on non-profit boards dedicated to supporting youth.
Rafael Muzones
Treasurer
Rafael is a small business owner with over 25 years of experience in business banking, bringing a strong financial background to the Foundation’s Board of Directors. He currently serves on the boards of two other nonprofits focused on expanding access to lacrosse, coaches at Lakes Community High School, and is the proud father of four. His youngest is a competitive player who has been involved in the sport since his U10 days, giving Rafael a long-standing appreciation and love for the game.
Dennis Pousak
Secretary
Since 1997, Dennis has owned and operated Dennis M. Pousak, P.C., following his tenure as an attorney with one of Michigan’s largest law firms. With over 30 years of experience in providing counsel on a broad spectrum of immigration needs, Dennis has served on several boards of both for-profit and non-profit entities throughout his career.
Jake Deane
Founder - True Lacrosse Foundation
Jake’s professional lacrosse career brought him to Chicago, where he met teammate Mike Gabel. Noticing a lack of quality lacrosse organizations in the Midwest, they founded True Lacrosse in 2008. In 2022, Jake and Mike expanded their vision by launching The True Lacrosse Foundation to create accessibility and support for students who traditionally haven’t had access to the sport.
