Pickleball for a Cause: For many communities, pickleball has become more than just a recreational activity. It’s now being used as a vehicle for raising awareness of serious social issues, including domestic violence. This past Saturday, the Voices of Stephenson County organization used the sport to bring attention to their ongoing efforts to support survivors and engage the public.
Voices, an organization committed to assisting domestic violence survivors, found an unconventional but effective way to engage people through pickleball. The initiative began when one of their employees, who was passionate about the sport, introduced it to colleagues.
After several games at Krape Park, they realized pickleball could do more than relieve stress—it could serve as a gateway to start meaningful conversations about domestic violence.
Pickleball as a Tool for Healing and Engagement
The Voices team understands that physical activity can be crucial in stress relief and overall well-being. According to Voices Executive Director Beth Maskell,
“It’s important for us as staff to do those activities and relieve stress. it’s important for survivors to come out, feel the sunshine, good activity. it’s important for everyone as part of a healthy lifestyle.” – (Beth Maskell)
Pickleball provides a fun, low-impact way for people of all ages and fitness levels to engage in physical exercise while also participating in a larger cause. Events like this allow survivors to feel part of a community, providing them with a safe and supportive environment.
Through pickleball, participants can focus on their health and healing while also promoting awareness of domestic violence issues. By fostering a sense of togetherness, these events encourage open dialogue, making it easier for individuals to share their experiences and find the support they need.
Community Support and How to Get Involved
While pickleball tournaments and events serve as powerful tools for awareness, Voices also emphasizes the importance of community support through donations. The organization calls on individuals to contribute essential household items like paper towels, toilet paper, laundry detergent, and dish soap, which are crucial for those staying in emergency shelters.
These donations go directly toward supporting survivors, helping them maintain a sense of normalcy and dignity during difficult times. As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, it’s also becoming a platform for non-profits like Voices to reach new audiences.
The simplicity and accessibility of the game make it an ideal choice for community-driven events that raise awareness on critical issues. Whether a pickleball player or someone just starting, there’s an opportunity to make a positive impact.
News in Brief: Pickleball for a Cause
Pickleball has proven itself to be more than just a sport—it’s a tool for change. By using it as a way to raise awareness of domestic violence, Voices of Stephenson County shows how communities can come together to support survivors, encourage healing, and engage in meaningful conversations.
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