After months of hard work and heartfelt moments, I am incredibly proud to share the launch of the non profit Global Pickleball Initiative – Play it Forward! 

Pickleball has been more than just a game to me; it’s been a way to connect with people, build community, and create hope. Our mission is to bring that same opportunity to others—especially the youth for afterschool programs, those navigating recovery, the unhoused, or those with mental health challenges.

This journey started with a conversation on a pickleball court. I met James, and his story deeply impacted me. James had struggled with addiction and, through his recovery, he found solace and strength in pickleball. His resilience and the joy he found on the court inspired me to dream bigger and create something that could help more people experience the healing, joy, and hope that pickleball brought him. You can hear James’ story in his own words, and I hope it touches you as much as it has touched me.

"Rallying to Recovery"
James, 20, shares how pickleball became his lifeline, helping him break free from the grip of addiction. Through the sport, James found camaraderie, physical strength, and emotional healing. Now, he’s on a mission to give back and teach pickleball to kids, sharing his powerful story of recovery along the way. His journey is one of transformation—from addiction to empowerment—and we’re excited to have him as our ambassador for GPI.  

Why We Need Your Help
Our goal is to integrate pickleball into schools and communities, especially those in need, and support individuals on their recovery journeys. We are raising funds to purchase pickleball equipment, including paddles, nets, and other essential items, for afterschool programs for elementary, middle, and high school students. With your help, we can provide these resources and coaching to create a positive, engaging environment where students can discover the joys of pickleball. We are also partnering with recovery centers to offer individuals in recovery a healthy and healing outlet through the sport.

Your donation will go directly toward making this vision a reality. Whether you can offer financial support or in-kind donations, your contribution will help us reach underserved communities, providing them with the tools and resources to participate in this transformative sport.

Global Pickleball Initiative – Play it Forward is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and your donation is fully tax-deductible. Our tax ID number is 99-4637333. In return for your generosity, your business or name will be recognized on our website, social media platforms, and at our events.

We are grateful for your consideration and hope that you can join us in making a lasting impact. Together, we can play it forward, one rally at a time.

DONATE HERE

Thank you for your support.
Nicole Ponek

Founder & Executive Director

Global Pickleball Initiative Play it Forward
Tax ID: 99-4637333