Southern Grit Advocacy Hosts Pickleball Tournament: Southern Grit Advocacy is set to host a pickleball tournament at The Pickleball Hangar, located just off Henry S Grace Freeway, starting on February 15. The event aims to raise funds to support the organization’s community outreach programs focused on personal safety and human trafficking prevention.
Tournament Purpose and Community Impact
Vicky Payne, the executive director of Southern Grit Advocacy, explained that this tournament is modeled after a successful event held in 2023. The funds raised will help educate students in grade school, middle school, and high school about safety and human trafficking issues.
“We educate students about personal safety and human trafficking prevention. We also raise awareness and educate adults so that money goes to support our programs.” – (Vicky Payne)
Payne highlighted the enjoyment of participants and the health benefits associated with playing pickleball.
“It’s a great way to stay in shape. There are statistics that it can prolong your life by nine years. Not only are you helping us and preventing abuse, but you’re also helping yourself when you play.” – (Vicky Payne)
Building Awareness in the Community
According to Payne, events like the tournament serve a dual purpose: they provide physical activity and help educate the community about serious issues.
“The more people that learn about it and recognize it, the more people that can get help and the greater chances of us disrupting what is going on in our neighborhood.” – (Vicky Payne)
Southern Grit Advocacy is still seeking more sponsors and participants to join the tournament, emphasizing the importance of community support for their mission.
“We want to encourage as many people as possible to get involved.” – (Vicky Payne)
News in Brief: Southern Grit Advocacy Hosts Pickleball Tournament
Southern Grit Advocacy will host a pickleball tournament on February 15 at The Pickleball Hangar to raise funds for community outreach focused on personal safety and human trafficking prevention. Executive Director Vicky Payne emphasizes the event’s fun and health benefits while seeking more sponsors and participants.