Sanford Family Hosts 15-Hour Pickleball Fundraiser: A local family in Sanford is raising funds for a Guatemalan orphanage mission through a unique 15-hour pickleball event. The fundraiser took place from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, December 27, at Groveview Park, intending to provide essential support for abandoned children in Guatemala.
Fundraiser Details
Cary Hays and his three children organized the event, joined by family, friends, and community members. Participants played pickleball throughout the day, engaging in friendly competition while contributing to a worthy cause. Donors were given the chance to win special giveaways from Amazing Adventure Hunts for those who managed to beat the Hays family in games.
Hays explained that all funds raised will go to Child Beyond International, a Guatemalan organization that partners with Resurrection Church, part of the Central Florida Cross Network. This network includes various churches, schools, and social ministries dedicated to serving the community.
Mission to Support Abandoned Children
The funds will provide critical resources such as food, shelter, medicine, and care for children who have been abandoned. Hays shared that the inspiration for this fundraiser came after he and his wife visited the orphanage in October.
“Meeting the children and staff moved us to help,”(Cary Hays).
Community Engagement and Support
The pickleball fundraiser brought together a diverse group of participants, highlighting the community’s commitment to helping those in need. Hays emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating,
“Every donation counts and will make a difference in the lives of these children.”(Cary Hays)
Through this event, the Hays family hopes to raise awareness about the challenges faced by orphaned children in Guatemala. They encourage more community members to get involved in supporting similar missions.
Future Impact and Initiatives
As the Central Florida Cross Network continues to grow, initiatives like this fundraiser play a vital role in meeting community needs. The success of this event could inspire future fundraisers, making a lasting impact on the lives of children both locally and internationally.
Those interested in donating can find more information through the link provided in the event announcement. By coming together, the community aims to change lives and provide hope for children in Guatemala.