First Serve New Mexico Gala Raises $1.5 Million
Tennis stars and local supporters gathered in Santa Fe to fund youth academic and sports programs.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Tennis
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The First Serve New Mexico Foundation secured $1.5 million at a recent gala event held at the Forked Lightning Racquet Club. The funds support ongoing efforts to provide free academic tutoring and tennis instruction to local students in grades 3-12.
Why it matters
The foundation provides essential resources for Santa Fe Public Schools students, helping them reach their full potential at no cost. These funds ensure the continuity of programs that blend athletic training with academic support for local youth.
The gala drew 700 VIP guests, while 500 club members participated in team tennis events. Tennis legends present at the event held a combined total of 152 major titles.
The players
Andre Agassi
A former professional tennis player who won eight Grand Slam singles titles and is a prominent philanthropist.
First Serve New Mexico Foundation
An organization dedicated to supporting Santa Fe Public Schools through athletic and academic development programs.
The details
The fundraising effort featured live and silent auctions alongside a significant $100,000 personal contribution from Andre Agassi. Throughout the weekend, professional tennis players provided hands-on instruction to youth participants during clinics at the Forked Lightning Racquet Club.
Timeline
First Serve New Mexico was founded in 2003.
The gala and related tennis events occurred October 17-18, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This successful fundraising effort secures the financial runway for the First Serve New Mexico foundation's academic and tennis curriculum. By solidifying its budget, the organization ensures it can maintain consistent weekly sessions for students throughout the upcoming school year.
The foundation's success guarantees that two-day and four-day weekly tennis and tutoring sessions remain free for families in the Santa Fe area. Students in grades 3-12 can continue to access these programs without financial barriers.
The takeaway
Supporting youth sports and academic programs provides a dual benefit that strengthens the local community. Families interested in these free educational and athletic resources should monitor the foundation's official announcements for enrollment periods.
Further reading
For more news on local matches and developments, visit our Tennis section.
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Do you believe private charity events are effective for supporting extracurricular programs in your local schools?
