Paddles and Pinwheels Pickleball Tournament: Camp Opportunity, a local non-profit, is hosting the “Paddles & Pinwheels: Rally for Prevention” pickleball tournament on Saturday, April 26, at the Pickleball House in Middle River. The event will raise funds for the non-profit’s summer camp and year-round programs that support youth who have experienced abuse or neglect.
Event Details and Purpose
The tournament is part of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, observed every April, which aims to raise awareness and encourage action to protect children. The event is a family-friendly fundraiser to help Camp Opportunity continue its mission of providing a safe, nurturing environment for children ages 8 to 11.
“For Camp Opportunity, that mission is year-round—and the Paddles & Pinwheels event is a fun and impactful way for the community to get involved.” – (Camp Opportunity)
These children have often experienced abuse or neglect, and the non-profit helps them build confidence, connect with peers, and enjoy being kids.
“Camp Opportunity provides these children with a safe and nurturing environment to build confidence, connect with peers and mentors, and simply enjoy being kids.” – (Camp Opportunity)
Camp Opportunity Executive Director Trish Woodward emphasized the importance of the event, saying, “Paddles & Pinwheels isn’t just a pickleball tournament—it’s a rallying cry for prevention, healing, and hope.
“Every child deserves a safe, joyful childhood. When we show up—for a game, for a cause, for a child—we are making a powerful statement that every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported.” – (Trish Woodward)
Facility and Community Impact
The Pickleball House, where the event will be held, opened in December 2023 in the Greenleigh community. The 27,000-square-foot facility features 10 indoor pickleball courts, providing a great venue for both competition and community gatherings. The event will also include food, music, prizes, and opportunities to learn more about child abuse prevention efforts in Maryland.
Statistics and Growing Need for Support
The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services reports that nearly 560,000 children experienced abuse and neglect in 2022. In Maryland alone, more than 20,000 children were investigated for suspected abuse and neglect in 2023. Camp Opportunity is working to make a difference, one child at a time, by providing trauma-informed care and activities that promote resilience.
Significance and Future Goals
The proceeds from “Paddles & Pinwheels” will support Camp Opportunity’s goal of keeping its programs free for children in need. The non-profit’s 1-to-1 camper-to-counselor model helps these children heal, grow, and thrive in a safe and supportive environment. The event offers a chance for the community to come together and make a powerful statement about the importance of protecting children.
News in Brief: Paddles and Pinwheels Pickleball Tournament
Camp Opportunity will host the “Paddles & Pinwheels” pickleball tournament on April 26 at the Pickleball House in Middle River. The event supports the non-profit’s programs for children affected by abuse or neglect. It features pickleball, food, music, prizes, and awareness activities.
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