Record-breaking Charity Tournament Raises Over $25K for Autism Assessments at Douglas Park Community School
The Douglas Park Pickleball charity tournament in Langley City has set a new record by raising over $25,000 to help provide autism assessments for students at Douglas Park Community School. The fourth annual tournament, which took place in July, saw more than 230 players participate, making it the largest pickleball tournament in the Lower Mainland.
The funds raised were presented to the Douglas Park Community School Society on Tuesday, Sept. 10, and will go towards providing autism assessments for underprivileged children. Tei James, a director of the society, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, stating, “It’s unbelievable, actually. I’m very emotional.”
Last year, the society was able to help 10 families get assessments and built a sensory climbing wall in the school. With the new record-breaking donation, more than a dozen kids will now have access to assessments that they otherwise couldn’t afford.
Langley MLA Andrew Mercier praised the community for coming together to support each other, emphasizing the positive impact the funds will have on children and parents. Langley City Deputy Mayor Rosemary Wallace highlighted the financial and time-consuming challenges of getting an assessment, making the donation even more significant.
The success of this year’s tournament has organizers already looking ahead to next year’s event, with plans to surpass the current fundraising record. The next charity tournament is scheduled for July 3-6 at the Douglas Park courts, promising another opportunity for the community to come together and make a difference.
