Meet the Founders – Promise of Hope Foundation

Meet the Founders

Scott Colletti

Scott Colletti has over 25 years’ experience in managing all aspects of a third-generation flooring business. His vision, understanding and professionalism has allowed him to respond to the changing times and create a successful commercial restoration and door business, adding to the already productive flooring company. His dedication to his family and employees allowed him to proceed with a successful transition and keep the integrity of a business that takes care of the employees and values the community that has supported them.

Scott’s enthusiasm and creativity has inspired him to become an owner of That Meetball Place; there are two current locations in Patchogue and Farmingdale. This illustrates his passion for food and the opportunity to create a place where loved ones can gather. He believes in tradition. Scott has used his success to create awareness and fundraise for many charities and for those in need. An early example, when the people of Sri Lanka found themselves devastated after the tsunami in 2004. Scott and his partner, Michael VanDenburg, used their contacts and shared their efforts to create an orphanage to provide shelter and care to the many victims’ children. He supports the Stony Brook Cancer Center and the numerous services they provide to the community with his wife Tammy. He is also a longtime supporter of The Marty Lyons Foundation. The many events they organize and attend raise necessary funds to sustain children’s wishes who are faced with a life-threatening illness. Scott and his wife Tammy regularly encourage, promote and participate in community events and activities; focusing on supporting parks, education, and families in need - just to name a few. The Promise of Hope Foundation is the representation of their continuous efforts to motivate positive change and improve the lives of others. One of his favorite quotes by Mark Twain says; “You are never wrong to do the right thing.” Scott will always remember these words and use them as a guide to focus his time, energy and resources to help others

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Michael VanDenburg

A native Long Islander, Michael’s dreams for success never came with a silver spoon. Michael’s success story is built through hard work and determination. Recognizing as a pre-teen that the first step in climbing a mountain starts at the bottom has embedded early character-building for his entrepreneurial spirit and continues to drive Michael today. Rarely do self-made men achieve success without experiencing some pitfalls in their journey. At age 20, with no fondness for formal education, but strong desires to make his success story, Michael started his own business with only the

capital saved from the hourly jobs of his teens. Despite the passion for greatness, that company failed. While that chapter was complete, the next chapter would set the stage. Michael began a new career – a commission only salesperson with Milburn Flooring. With the same passion and work ethic, his success was overwhelming which earned Michael a partnership in the family owned and operated business, started in 1959. Michael and his business partner, Scott Colletti, a third-generation owner, have grown together and their partnership has produced three other businesses started from the ground up. Through Milburn Flooring, Michael and Scott have since added Renu Contracting, Sunrise Door Solutions and two locations of That Meetball Place restaurant. The character of a self-made man speaks volumes, especially as is the case with Michael in never forgetting the road traveled. The tsunami of 2004 deeply affected all as we watched the poor children in Sri Lanka homeless and parentless. Michael was quick to react, along with Scott. Within 45 days, contacts were made in Sri Lanka and through their efforts they had raised enough money to build a brand-new orphanage. Michael’s efforts are altruistic and will continue to impact those in need. He has been active in many charitable causes, including: The Marty Lyons Foundation and was the 2012 recipient of the Man of the Year award; The A.M.T. Children of Hope Foundation, recognized his efforts in 2013; and Hope House Ministries. He has been a devoted supporter of Hope House Ministries for over fifteen years and he also sits on the board of directors. Michael is also the driving force behind the ministry’s Annual Golf Classic.

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Tammy Colletti

There is a famous quote by a well-known civil rights leader that truly exemplifies the standards and values of our founding members. Ghandi said; “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Tammy Colletti has dedicated her life to sharing this belief with everyone she encounters. Born and raised in Smithtown NY, Tammy met fellow Foundation leader, and husband Scott Colletti in 3rd grade. Their compelling bond and loyal friendship eventually developed into a wonderful love story, filled with 25 years of devoted marriage and three beautiful children.

During her college years, Tammy pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Stony Brook University and completed her Master’s in Education from Hofstra. She taught for many years, eventually deciding to leave teaching to open her own Pre-School and focus on starting a family. Her educational experience led to a rewarding career, owning and operating this successful Pre-School Center for ten years. During this time, she also became a child yoga instructor, enriching many lives in her community. Currently, Tammy is focused on raising her three teenage children, Jake, Maggie and Grace, remaining an active member of the Three Village School District and local community. Tammy & Scott have focused much of their energy on building a strong family, instilling their compassionate values to prepare their children for a successful future. Tammy donates her time to many charitable organizations, including the Stony Brook Cancer Center and various School District activities, always in support of her children and community. Her participation and contributions to these events continually illuminate her true character, defined by her desire to give back to those in need. In her spare time, Tammy enjoys yoga, meditation and writing, but most of all, her drive is fueled by helping others. To this day, her most cherished memory is the joy of leaving a positive influence on another. Optimism, compassion, kindness and empathy will always be the descriptive traits that express her motivation to accomplish goals and leave a legacy that will always be remembered.

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