SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC NEWS) – Upbeat music fills empty spaces throughout Destiny Mall. Elevators ring upon arriving at selected levels while businesses set up for a mild Sunday afternoon turnout.
At Bullfinch Brewpub, one man stands in a Stranger Things ‘Jim Hopper’ costume in preparation for a big event. Brian Cocca, president of the Syracuse Trivia Company, was two hours away from hosting the Stranger Things Trivia Night. An event that advertised over 150 participants and the opportunity to win $2,000 dollars in prizes.
Cocca said he launched his company in 2009 to engage local residents throughout the week.
“The whole premise behind what we are doing here is to create community, create opportunities for people to get together and do things they enjoy with maybe people who they are not always seeing on a regular basis or need a little nudge to see,” Cocca said.
Cocca was happy with his business, but felt he could do more for the community.
Cocca said he tries to consistently donate to local charities when affordable. The most recent organization he supported was the Onondaga Earth Corps or OEC, a youth empowerment program through environmental work.
“We have given, you know, tens of thousands of dollars over the years to various organizations,” Cocca said.
According to their website, the Syracuse Trivia Company raised exactly $23,204.40 dollars for Onondaga Earth Corps.
Cocca said it is important for him to also give players the opportunity to donate. He places a donation bucket at nearly every event for participants to contribute.
The Syracuse Trivia Company runs weekly trivia nights throughout the local community.
