KAYSVILLE—In recent years, there has been perhaps no more popular niche sport than pickleball. Across the state, from Logan to St. George, pickleball courts have been popping up, and taking the state by storm. For local players, however, there’s an opportunity to do more with the hobby than just have fun and get some exercise, it can be a chance to do some good for those who really need it.

“Pickleball with a Purpose,” organized in partnership with The Christmas Box International, and The Kitchen indoor pickleball courts in Kaysville presents Davis County locals with a different way to give back. “We really like to have unique fundraisers,” said Celeste Edmunds, Executive Director of The Christmas Box International, and events like pickleball offer a great opportunity to do just that.

So many people in this and other communities around the world want to give back, or donate to others in need but are unsure of how to go about that or the best way they can. Events like “Pickleball with a Purpose” go a long way to meeting people halfway, and offering a different way to donate, and serve others.

“Donations are very unpredictable,” Edmunds said, explaining how through events like this, she and her team can help fill the gaps, and purchase items that often just don’t get donated. That’s not all these funds will help with either. One of the biggest things funds raised through “Pickleball with a Purpose” will help with is giving kids the opportunity to have positive experiences outside of shelters.

The Christmas Box International can use these funds, Edmunds explained, to give these kids, who, according to their website, “are victims of abuse, neglect, trafficking, or are facing homelessness,” the chance to visit places like the zoo, an amusement park, or something as simple as getting their own ice cream, where they can pick the flavor, the toppings, whatever it may be, for the first time in their lives. 

The event is small, but there will be plenty to do, and it’s not just for those who’ve played pickleball for years, “It’s all levels!” said Edmunds. In addition to the games themselves, participants will also be able to enter a drawing, grab some swag bags, and really have a fantastic time all the while contributing to a very worthy cause. 

“Pickleball with a Purpose” will kick off April 13, at The Kitchen indoor pickleball courts in Kaysville, and runs from 2 to 5 p.m. While participation is capped at 44 players, the tickets are going fast. More information on registration and other ways to donate can be found at thechristmasbox.org, under the “Get Involved” tab.