Record-breaking Charity Tournament Raises Over $25K for Autism Assessments at Douglas Park Community School
Langley City-based pickleball players have set a new record with their latest charity tournament, raising over $25,000 to provide autism assessments for students at Douglas Park Community School. The fourth annual Douglas Park Pickleball charity tournament, held in July, saw more than 230 players participate and raised a total of $25,205.97. This donation will help fund learning assessments, primarily for autism, for underprivileged children at the school.
Tei James, a director of the Douglas Park Community School Society, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, stating, “It’s unbelievable, actually. I’m very emotional.” The society typically relies on fundraising through concessions and raffles, making this record-breaking donation even more remarkable.
Last year, the society was able to help 10 families get assessments and built a sensory climbing wall in the school. Kristina Crosgrey, the fundraising coordinator for Douglas Park Pickleball, estimated that more than a dozen kids will benefit from the funds raised this year. She expressed excitement for next year’s tournament, hoping to surpass this year’s success.
Langley MLA Andrew Mercier commended the community for coming together to support each other, emphasizing the positive impact this donation will have on the lives of many children and parents. Langley City Deputy Mayor Rosemary Wallace highlighted the financial and time-consuming challenges of getting an assessment, making this donation even more significant.
The charity tournament is set to return next year from July 3-6 at the Douglas Park courts, with organizers already gearing up for another successful event. The generosity and support shown by the pickleball community have made a lasting impact on the students at Douglas Park Community School.
