Pickleball Tournament in Winona Lake: The Helping Heroes Pickleball Tournament at Limitless Park is set to raise funds for first responder mental health, with all proceeds benefiting Project Ebenezer. The event, taking place over the weekend, aims to provide critical support to Kosciusko County’s first responders.
Community Engagement
At the recent Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory board meeting, EMS Chief Chris Fancil highlighted the importance of the tournament, which is sponsored by Project Ebenezer.
“So I would encourage anyone who is available to at least try to attend that. There’s going to be some opportunities for food and games for kids, and things for other people to do.” – (Fancil)
Although Fancil doesn’t play pickleball, he will be present to assist, emphasizing the event’s focus on enhancing mental health support for first responders.
“Their goal is to just focus on, and have the financial means to, help first responders and take care of mental health for the first responders in our community.” – (Fancil)
Tournament Details
With over 70 teams already signed up, Fancil noted the event promises two days of competitive play. “It’s going to be two days of pickleball. I’ll probably understand the game by the time the tournament’s over,” Fancil remarked, praising the community for its involvement.
According to Paige Wood, president of Project Ebenezer Inc., 100% of the tournament’s profits will support the mental health and wellness of local first responders. The funds will help Project Ebenezer continue providing crucial resources for therapy, medications, and training.
Project Ebenezer’s Role
Project Ebenezer offers financial aid for mental health therapy, medications, and events to first responders in Kosciusko County, including active, volunteer, and retired police, fire, dispatchers, jailers, and medics. The organization also supports Peer-to-Peer Support Programs and conducts PTSD awareness training for local agencies. They will provide meals for Peer Support team members during CISM training and a support dinner for families of new first responders.
Event Activities
The tournament will feature activities for kids, including a police K9 demonstration, arts and crafts, EMS hands-on activities, and opportunities to explore first responder vehicles. Public lunch will be available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on both days, with burgers, hotdogs, nachos, and desserts for purchase, all proceeds benefiting Project Ebenezer. Additionally, a raffle will be held, with tickets available for purchase, and the drawing will occur on August 18. No need to be present to win.
News in Brief: Pickleball Tournament in Winona Lake
The Helping Heroes Pickleball Tournament at Limitless Park will benefit first responder mental health through Project Ebenezer. Over 70 teams are set to compete in the two-day event, with all proceeds going to support Kosciusko County first responders. EMS Chief Chris Fancil, despite not playing pickleball, encourages community participation and will assist at the event.
Project Ebenezer provides crucial mental health resources, including therapy and training, for local first responders. The tournament will feature kids’ activities, public lunches from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and a raffle. All event proceeds and raffle funds will support Project Ebenezer’s mission.
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