Our Story
It started with a band of brothers and a single act of generosity.
Thirteen years ago, when the brother of one in the group lost his home to Hurricane Sandy in New York, the friends came together and held a racquetball fundraiser to help him rebuild. In a single day, they raised $2,000. Seeing what they could accomplish together, they knew this was only the beginning.
What began as one fundraiser became a tradition. The group went on to host racquetball and pickleball honor dinners, raising money for the community year after year. When the pandemic brought them to pickleball, they turned their passion into a business — Banger Pickleball — crafting paddles, shirts, shoes, and eye protection.
As their events grew, so did their purpose. They formed a 501(c)(3) out of Banger Pickleball, and BP Gives became the name behind the mission. At its heart, the story is simple: a group of friends with a shared belief that they could make a difference for their community. Thirteen years later, that first $2,000 has grown into more than $150,000 raised for North Texas — and the mission is still going strong.
A racquetball fundraiser raises $2,000 in a day for a friend's brother who lost his home to Hurricane Sandy in New York.
Racquetball and pickleball honor dinners become a tradition, raising money for the community.
The group takes up pickleball and forms a business called Banger Pickleball.
BP Gives — a 501(c)(3) formed from Banger Pickleball — has raised $150,000+ for North Texas.
What we're building.
A North Texas where every veteran is valued, every child has opportunity, and every act of giving creates a ripple of hope.
To honor veterans, uplift children, and strengthen our community by transforming generosity into meaningful action.
Host & Support Community Events
We host our own events and help businesses run theirs.
Veteran Direct Benefit Program
We connect resources straight to veterans in need.
Sponsor Veterans to Participate
We sponsor veterans to join our community events — building a broader community around them.
BP Gives Directors
Mark Waldorf
A Flower Mound resident for more than 25 years, Mark has always been active in the community through his children’s schools, church projects, fundraisers, and local events. An avid racquetball player, he was a member of Memphis State University’s national championship team, and for more than a decade he has helped lead BP Gives’ efforts to support Wounded Warriors and local causes across North Texas. Mark and his wife, Connie, have four children, including a son serving as a U.S. Army Drill Sergeant.
Dean Desiderio
A longtime North Texas resident and proud U.S. Army veteran, Airborne, Dean served with honor and continues his commitment to service through volunteer work and advocacy. Dean is the father of three sons, two of whom followed his path of service in the United States Air Force. A former racquetball player, Dean stays active and competitive as an avid pickleball player, enjoying the sport’s camaraderie and energy. His unique blend of military experience, family values, and community spirit makes him a valued advocate for those who have served and the families who support them.
Gary Coman
A native Texan and member of a seventh-generation U.S. military family, Gary brings decades of executive business experience to BP Gives, fueled by a deep passion for service and giving back. Still active in both racquetball and pickleball, Gary enjoys bridging the friendly divide between the two sports — and mediating the “which game is better” debate with Mark and Dean. Gary’s life remains centered on family, including his wife, two daughters, and a large local extended family.
Communities We Impact
Veterans & Their Families
Honoring North Texas veterans and the families who serve alongside them.
Children in Need
Supporting hospitalized children and those facing physical or mental challenges.
Businesses Making a Difference
Helping local businesses turn goodwill into lasting community impact.