Charity Pickleball Tournament in Mishawaka Rallies Community: On September 14, the Central Park in Mishawaka, Indiana, was abuzz with excitement as the Center for Hospice Care (CHC) teamed up with the Michiana Pickleball Club to host a charity pickleball tournament. This event, a vibrant display of community spirit, attracted over 90 participants of all ages and skill levels. The day was not just about competition; it was a celebration of the sport and a dedicated effort to support CHC’s mission of providing compassionate care to those facing serious, advanced illnesses.
Mission-Driven Support
Robert “Red” Fisher, the events manager at Center for Hospice Care, expressed his deep gratitude for the outpouring of support. “The Michiana Pickleball Club’s assistance with this event is invaluable,” Fisher said. “It supports not only our general hospice patients but also our bereavement and education programs.”
Fisher underscored the significance of such events in sustaining CHC’s services, which are offered free of charge to the public, including those not directly connected to hospice care. “Events like this are crucial for maintaining these services and helping those who need them the most,” he added.
Volunteers and Community Support
Fisher highlighted the indispensable role played by volunteers and the community in making the event a success. “Center for Hospice Care and the Hospice Foundation rely heavily on volunteers and community support,” Fisher noted. “Today’s event showcases the dedication of many volunteers from both our organization and the Michiana Pickleball Club.” The tournament’s success is a testament to the collective effort of those who not only came to support but also paid to participate, all in aid of continuing the hospice’s mission.
Michiana Pickleball Club’s Charitable Endeavors
The Michiana Pickleball Club, known for organizing several major tournaments throughout the year, balanced this event between fundraising for the club and supporting charitable causes. Nick Falletta, the club’s president, has been instrumental in this charitable approach. “It’s fantastic to partner with the Center for Hospice Care,” Falletta said.
“This is our final major fundraiser for the year, and we hope to raise around the same amount we recently donated to the Boys and Girls Club, which was $4,300.” Falletta’s commitment to promoting pickleball and community welfare is evident in the club’s activities. With eight years of experience in the Michiana area, the club’s mission is to enhance community health and engagement through pickleball.
A Personal Touch
Paul Wasowski, a board member of the Michiana Pickleball Club, shared his excitement about the tournament and the opportunity to support such a significant cause. “The game itself is enjoyable, but it’s also about the people you meet and the friendships you form,” Wasowski said. “Participating in this event and supporting the Center for Hospice Care is an incredible experience. It’s rewarding to contribute to their mission in such a meaningful way.”
The Spirit of Pickleball
The tournament proved to be more than just a competitive event; it was an opportunity for participants to come together in support of a crucial cause. “In the seven years I’ve been playing pickleball, I’ve met more people than in the 78 years before that,” Falletta reflected. “The sense of community is remarkable. You can show up any weekday, put your paddle in the rack, and find yourself on the court with new friends.”
The charity pickleball tournament served as a powerful reminder of the impact that community-driven events can have. With its success, both the Michiana Pickleball Club and the Center for Hospice Care are looking forward to continuing their partnership and making a difference in the lives of those in need.
News in Brief: Charity Pickleball Tournament in Mishawaka Rallies Community
On September 14, the Center for Hospice Care and Michiana Pickleball Club hosted a charity pickleball tournament at Central Park, Mishawaka, raising funds for hospice care. The event attracted over 90 participants and highlighted the importance of community support for CHC’s mission and programs.
The Michiana Pickleball Club’s commitment to charitable causes was evident, with this being their final major fundraiser of the year. The tournament was a successful blend of sport and philanthropy, demonstrating the power of community engagement in supporting important causes.
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