Reid Jarjosa’s City Pickle: Sixteen-year-old Reid Jarjosa is making waves in Detroit by introducing pickleball to local youth through his non-profit organization, City Pickle. Founded in 2022, the non-profit aims to engage children, ages 5 to 17, in active recreation and provide valuable life skills through the sport.
City Pickle’s Impact on Detroit’s Youth
Jarjosa, a student at Detroit Country Day School, explained, “Since our founding, City Pickle has worked with over 3,000 kids across 10 locations in Detroit.” The organization’s programming, which includes active engagement, volunteering, and pickleball, promotes teamwork, confidence, and social interaction. Through this initiative, City Pickle hopes to combat childhood obesity and offer children a fun, screen-free activity.
“Through our programs, we provide opportunities for children to build confidence, develop teamwork skills, and engage in active, social recreation.” – (Jarjosa)
“City Pickle is more than just a sports program. Our activities help combat childhood obesity by keeping kids active and they provide a healthy alternative to screen time, encouraging kids to put down their phones and build meaningful, face-to-face connections.” – (Jarjosa)
The non-profit’s efforts have created a positive environment for young people to engage in physical activity while learning valuable social skills.
Partnerships and Community Support
To ensure that kids have access to courts, City Pickle has partnered with the Boys and Girls Club of Southeast Michigan and Detroit Parks and Recreation to secure playing spaces. Sponsorships, donations, and grants help cover the costs of necessary equipment, ensuring that all participants have the tools they need to succeed.
Jarjosa emphasized that pickleball provides children with a fun alternative to excessive screen time.
“The organization focuses on personal growth by teaching values such as perseverance and healthy competition. Reid’s dedication to expanding these programs aims to foster community spirit and encourage healthy lifestyles in underserved neighborhoods.” – (City Pickle’s official website)
His efforts aim to give kids a healthy outlet while fostering a sense of community and teamwork.
Promoting Personal Growth Through Sport
The organization’s mission extends beyond physical fitness. The non-profit focuses on teaching values such as perseverance, healthy competition, and personal growth.
As Jarjosa continues to expand the program, he remains committed to fostering community spirit and promoting healthy lifestyles, especially in underserved neighborhoods.
News in Brief: Reid Jarjosa’s City Pickle
Sixteen-year-old Reid Jarjosa founded City Pickle, a non-profit that brings pickleball to over 3,000 kids in Detroit. Partnering with local organizations, the initiative promotes teamwork, confidence, and healthy lifestyles, while providing a fun, active alternative to screen time for youth in underserved communities.
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