NEW YORK /PRNewswire/ — Community organizations, schools, and parks in 14 cities and towns across the country are using $1.275 million in new grants from The DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation to improve sports facilities in under-resourced neighborhoods.

The awards represent the first round of funding through the Game On-Community Places to Play Initiative, a partnership of The DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC). The program selected 15 non-profit community-based organizations to receive grants ranging between $50,000 and $100,000 to advance sports renovation projects in low- and moderate-income communities.

“We are thrilled these communities will be able to offer revitalized sports spaces to deserving athletes across the country,” said Rick Jordan, vice president of The DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation. “We are proud of this partnership and believe that the rejuvenation of sports facilities is not just an investment in infrastructure, but an investment in the future of youth athletes.”

Grantees were selected through a competitive application process administered by LISC earlier this year, which required applicants to secure 1:1 match funding. In addition to managing the grant program, LISC will provide technical assistance to grantees to help them move projects forward.

“Sports teaches young people about teamwork and community, all while nurturing healthy bodies and minds,” said Beverly Smith, LISC vice president. “We are so glad The DICK’s Sporting Goods Foundation joined with us to invest in creating safe, quality sports facilities where youth and their families can play, exercise and spend time together.”

Grants will be used to meet a range of renovation needs. The 15 organizations selected to receive funding through the Game On-Community Places to Play Initiative include:

• Brooke Charter Schools (Boston, Mass.): Transform an unused four-acre portion of the former Boston State Hospital grounds into athletic fields and outdoor space.
  
• Highline Public Schools (Burien, Wash.): Install additional lighting for six tennis courts at Highline High School.
  
• The YMCA of Greater Cincinnati (Cincinnati, Ohio): Build new outdoor basketball courts at Blanchetta Park in Colerain Township.
  
• The Urban Community School (Cleveland, Ohio): Create two mini pitch soccer fields on its campus in the Near West Side.
  
• The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas (Dallas, Texas): Install a natural grass multipurpose athletic field and sprinkler system at its Grand Prairie Club.
  
• Detroit Horse Power (Detroit, Mich.): Build and activate an equestrian center for youth at a demolished school site in the Hope Village neighborhood.
  
• KIPP Bold City High School (Jacksonville, Fla.): Develop an athletic field for football and other community sports programs.
  
• Memphis Business Academy Schools (Memphis, Tenn.): Install an outdoor natural grass multipurpose athletic field on its campus in the Frayser neighborhood.
  
• The Police Athletic League (New York, N.Y.): Renovate and repurpose an undersized and underutilized gymnasium in Washington Heights into a multi-sport training facility.
  
• Nicetown Community Development Corporation (Philadelphia, Pa.): Install four basketball courts on underutilized land in the Nicetown neighborhood.
  
• The Kingsley Association (Pittsburgh, Pa.): Renovate the gymnasium at its facility in the Larimer neighborhood.
  
• The Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh, Pa.): Renovate a baseball and softball facility at its Shadyside Clubhouse.
  
• The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego (San Diego, Calif.): Resurface the soccer arena at its branch in the Logan Heights neighborhood.
  
• Spokane Hoopfest Association (Spokane, Wash.): Resurface two existing basketball courts and convert an unused tennis court into pickleball courts in the East Central neighborhood.
  
• The Wichita Parks Foundation (Wichita, Kan.): Install programmable lighting at the largest baseball field at McAdams Park.

About LISC
LISC is one of the country’s largest community development organizations, helping forge vibrant, resilient communities across America. We work with residents and partners to close systemic gaps in health, wealth and opportunity and advance racial equity so that people and places can thrive. Since our founding in 1979, LISC has invested $29.7 billion to create more than 489,000 affordable homes and apartments, develop 81.4 million square feet of retail, community and educational space and help tens of thousands of people find employment and improve their finances. For more, visit www.lisc.org.

About The DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation
The DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation is a tax exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation with a mission to inspire and enable sports participation. It was created by DICK’S Sporting Goods as a private corporate foundation to support DICK’S charitable and philanthropic activities. Driven by its belief that sports have the power to change lives, The DICK’S Foundation champions youth sports and provides grants and support to under-resourced teams and athletes through its Sports Matter program and other community-based initiatives. Additional information about The DICK’S Foundation can be found on www.sportsmatter.org.

SOURCE Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC)

HILTON HEAD, S.C. , Nov. 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Pickleball Kingdom, a leading name in the world of pickleball, is thrilled to announce an exciting partnership with Kelly and Christopher Ogden, CEO of RT2 Holdings and past franchisees with Orangetheory Fitness, Restore Hyper Wellness & Cryotherapy, and Tony Roma’s Restaurant. This talented couple is set to bring the thrill of indoor pickleball to the Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and Charleston Metro areas through a significant 6-club deal.

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Pickleball Kingdom, known for its commitment to promoting the sport of pickleball and creating top-notch facilities, is excited to join forces with Kelly and Christopher, who have a proven track record of success in the franchise industry. The Ogden’s extensive experience and passion for health and wellness align perfectly with Pickleball Kingdom’s mission to provide accessible and high-quality pickleball facilities.

“Pickleball is the fastest-growing sports in the United States, and we believe that the Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and Charleston Metro areas are ripe for the growth of indoor pickleball facilities,” said Ace Rodrigues, CEO of Pickleball Kingdom.

COO, Rob Streett, added, “We are delighted to join forces with Kelly and Christopher, whose entrepreneurial spirit and proven track record in franchising make them the ideal partners for our ambitious growth plans. With their dedication and expertise, we are confident that pickleball enthusiasts in these vibrant South Carolina communities will enjoy top-notch facilities and experiences.”

Kelly and Christopher have a strong connection to the communities they will be serving with these new indoor pickleball facilities. “We are excited to introduce pickleball to these vibrant communities and provide a fun and engaging activity for people of all ages and skill levels,” said Kelly Ogden. “Pickleball promotes physical fitness, social interaction, and mental agility, making it a perfect fit for our passion for wellness.”

Christopher Ogden, CEO of RT2 Holdings, stated, “Having been franchisees in the past, we understand the importance of quality and service excellence. Pickleball Kingdom’s core values align with ours perfectly. We are excited to be a part of the Pickleball Kingdom family.”

The new indoor pickleball clubs will feature state-of-the-art facilities, professional coaching, and a welcoming atmosphere for players of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pickleball pro or a newcomer to the sport, Pickleball Kingdom and the Ogdens aim to create an inclusive and enjoyable pickleball experience.

Pickleball Kingdom and the Ogdens are committed to community engagement and plan to collaborate with local organizations and schools to promote active and healthy lifestyles through pickleball.

The exact locations of the new indoor pickleball clubs will be announced soon, with plans for Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and multiple locations throughout the Charleston Metro area.

About Pickleball Kingdom:

Pickleball Kingdom is a leading brand in the world of pickleball, committed to promoting and growing the sport through high-quality facilities, professional coaching, and community engagement. With a mission to make pickleball accessible to all, Pickleball Kingdom is dedicated to fostering active and healthy lifestyles.

About Kelly and Christopher Ogden:

Kelly and Christopher Ogden are seasoned franchise owners with a passion for health and wellness. Their experience includes successful ventures with Orangetheory Fitness, Restore Hyper Wellness & Cryotherapy, and Tony Roma’s Restaurant, and they are excited to bring their expertise to the world of pickleball with Pickleball Kingdom.

SOURCE Pickleball Kingdom

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When you step into a ballpark, the sights and sounds of the game surround you. The aroma of hot dogs and the refreshing taste of a cold beer are often part of the experience. Perhaps you’ll even have the chance to catch a fly ball. But beyond the thrill of the game, there’s something special about the Arizona Diamondbacks. As a team deeply invested in their community, the Diamondbacks have made a significant impact through their philanthropic efforts. Let’s explore how this Major League Baseball team has gone above and beyond to support their community through charitable initiatives.

The Arizona Diamondback Foundation:
Working at Chase Ballpark has given me the opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible work of the Arizona Diamondbacks in the community. Since its establishment in 1997, the Arizona Diamondback Foundation has been a driving force behind numerous charitable endeavors. This nonprofit organization has consistently contributed $50 million annually to various charities, focusing on areas such as homelessness, indigent healthcare, and children’s programs.

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Supporting Education and Youth Programs:
One of the standout initiatives of the Diamondbacks is their dedication to education and youth development. They have refurbished 41 baseball fields across the state, providing safe and enjoyable spaces for young athletes. Additionally, the Diamondbacks have partnered with organizations like the Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center and the Boys and Girls Club of Maricopa County, recognizing their outstanding work in these areas.

Recognizing Academic Excellence:
The Arizona Diamondbacks also recognize the importance of education and academic excellence. Through their commitment to supporting schools, they established an excellent award program. By the end of 2012, they had awarded $250,000 to 51 schools across the state, highlighting and celebrating the achievements of students and educators alike.

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Diana Gregory Outreach Services: Nourishing Veterans and Seniors Through Food Access

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The 50/50 Raffle:
During every Diamondbacks game, fans have the opportunity to participate in a 50/50 raffle. Half of the proceeds from this raffle go to a designated charity, while the other half goes to the lucky ticket holder. This unique initiative not only raises funds for worthy causes but also engages fans in the spirit of giving back.

A Community-Driven Team:
When you enter Chase Ballpark in Arizona to witness a Diamondbacks game, it’s clear that they are more than just a baseball team. They are a team committed to making a positive impact on the community they call home. By supporting various charitable initiatives, the Diamondbacks have demonstrated their dedication to improving the lives of those in need.

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The Arizona Diamondbacks have proven themselves to be champions not only on the baseball field but also in their unwavering commitment to the community. Through the Arizona Diamondback Foundation, their investment in education, youth programs, and charitable initiatives has made a significant difference in the lives of many. So, next time you head to a Diamondbacks game, remember that you’re not just supporting a baseball team, but an organization that truly cares about its community. Join them in their mission to make a positive impact and witness the power of sports in transforming lives.

If you’re interested in learning about the ways in which Dback engages with the community, please visit this link for more information. https://www.mlb.com/dbacks/community