Pickleball Tournament Raises Funds for Make-A-Wish Foundation in Panama City
Pickleball Tournament Raises Funds for Make-A-Wish Foundation in Panama City
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) – Pickleball players from all over gathered at Papa Joes Bayside in Panama City for a special tournament with a heartwarming cause – raising money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
The goal of the tournament was to raise funds to grant one to two wishes for children in the local area who are eagerly waiting for their wishes to come true. Kathleen Hampton, Director of Development for the Northwest Region of Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida, expressed gratitude for the support, stating that the funds raised will make a significant impact on the lives of these children.
With close to $10,000 raised during the tournament, the Make-A-Wish Foundation is well on its way to fulfilling the average wish cost of $8,000. Hampton shared that in the past four years, over 125 wishes have been granted in the northwest region, bringing joy and hope to children and their families.
One family, the Bostwick’s, shared their touching story of how Make-A-Wish made a lasting impact on their lives. After their son was diagnosed with cancer, the family was able to create cherished memories during a trip to Hawaii, fulfilling his wish. Despite the challenges they faced, the Bostwick’s found solace in the special moments they shared with their son.
The Bostwick’s emphasized the importance of the pickleball tournament, not only for raising funds but also for honoring their son’s memory through something he loved. They highlighted how playing pickleball together as a family brought them joy during difficult times and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to support other children in need.
Make-A-Wish Foundation members are planning to host pickleball tournaments every three months in the Pensacola, Panama City, and Destin areas, with the hope of continuing to make wishes come true for deserving children. Additionally, the foundation is seeking volunteers in Panama City to support their mission of bringing hope and joy to children facing critical illnesses.
As the community comes together to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the impact of these efforts will continue to spread happiness and positivity to those in need.
