Joe Mazzulla, Jayson Tatum join groundbreaking for Providence early childhood education center

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla and star player Jayson Tatum attended Thursday’s groundbreaking for a new early childhood education center in Providence’s Manton Heights neighborhood.

Also in attendance were Celtics president Rich Gotham and Providence Mayor Brett Smiley.

The center, funded by the Amica Companies Foundation and the Celtics’ Shamrock Foundation, is set to open in early 2026.

The Celtics Shamrock Foundation a the charitable arm of the Boston Celtics.

It focuses on supporting programs and nonprofits that benefit children, families, and communities across New England, especially in areas like:

• Youth education – literacy programs, after-school activities, and college readiness initiatives.
• Health and wellness – fitness programs, access to healthy food, and medical support for children.
• Equity and inclusion – opportunities for underserved and underrepresented communities

Joe Mazzulla and Jayson Tatum won their first NBA championship together in 2024.

Photo credit: @jbfilmedit (Instagram)