Sisters-in-Arms Pickleball Fundraiser: Celebrating four years of impactful service, Sisters-in-Arms is gearing up for its annual fundraiser with a new twist that highlights the growing popularity of pickleball. On Friday, October 25, the Ponte Vedra Beach-based non-profit will host the “Arm-in-Arm Showdown,” featuring an exciting pickleball tournament alongside golf. This innovative approach not only promotes healthy competition but also aims to empower young women aging out of foster care—one pickleball swing at a time. The pickleball event will take place at The Yards in Ponte Vedra Beach, setting the stage for a memorable day of sport and community engagement.
Pickleball Takes Center Stage
Co-founders Mary Lourdes Saenz and Steph McFee expressed their enthusiasm for the event, particularly for the role that pickleball will play in fostering pickleball community spirit.
“Our first annual Showdown combines our golf and pickleball tournaments into one and will prove to be one of the most fun and inspirational events of the year. Our goal is to support 10 – 20 girls through our program in 2025, and The Showdown will be our major fundraiser to support this goal. Each young woman in our Purpose to Possibilities program receives training, mentorship, clothing, and the community they will need to transition and thrive.” – (McFee)
The pickleball tournament promises to be an exhilarating experience for players and spectators, offering a fantastic opportunity to engage with the sport while raising funds for a noble cause.
Event Highlights and Community Involvement
Tickets for the dual tournament will include drink tickets, light food, entertainment, and access to an epic after-party featuring Howl at the Moon. Open to the public, the event offers team and individual pickleball player tickets, with sponsorship opportunities still available for local businesses eager to support this meaningful initiative.
The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive, with numerous local sponsors stepping up to back the event. Sponsors include Duval Clinical Solutions, Mike Ammirata with Resource Solution Plus, O’Steen Volvo, and many others, with silent auction items valued at $3,000 contributed by local businesses, further enhancing the fundraising efforts.
A Focus on Empowerment Through Sport
Chip O’Steen, president of O’Steen Automotive Group, is proud to support the event, highlighting the importance of community involvement in helping young women succeed.
“It is amazing to see what Mary and the Sisters-in-Arms organization is doing in our community. We could not be prouder to stand behind and support such a wonderful organization in helping young women change their circumstances and secure a better future for themselves and future generations.” – (Chip O’Steen)
Sisters-in-Arms aims to empower young women not only through pickleball and golf but also by providing essential life skills. The organization offers various programs, including etiquette classes, money management training, and mentorship, all crucial for young women transitioning into adulthood.
Building Futures Through Pickleball
Saenz expressed gratitude for the community’s support, particularly emphasizing partnerships with local organizations that enhance their offerings.
“Sisters-in-Arms partners with various local entities to invest in the young women we serve, preparing them for success in adulthood.” – (Saenz)
The programs include professional dress workshops and business etiquette sessions, complemented by resources such as laptops and interview attire—all provided at no cost through the generosity of donors.
By hosting events like the Arm-in-Arm Showdown, Sisters-in-Arms aims to create safe spaces and support systems for women aged 18 – 24, a crucial time for many transitioning out of foster care. The funds raised from the pickleball tournament will be instrumental in helping Saenz and McFee achieve their long-term goal of establishing a transitional house for these women, further reinforcing the mission of empowerment through pickleball sport.
News in Brief: Sisters-in-Arms Pickleball Fundraiser
On October 25, Sisters-in-Arms will host the “Arm-in-Arm Showdown” in Ponte Vedra Beach, featuring a pickleball tournament to raise funds for young women aging out of foster care. Co-founders Mary Lourdes Saenz and Steph McFee aim to support 10-20 young women in 2025 through their Purpose to Possibilities program.
The event includes drink tickets, light food, entertainment, and an after-party with Howl at the Moon. Local sponsors and businesses are contributing to the fundraiser, reinforcing community support for this vital initiative.
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