Paddle Power and Purpose: LifeWise Ashland City Smashes Fundraising Goal with Community Pickleball Tournament
ASHLAND, OHIO — What do faith, fun, and fierce competition have in common? Pickleball, of course—at least when LifeWise Ashland City is behind the event.
On Saturday, June 21, the Ashland community came together in a big way, trading tennis shoes for paddles and sunshine for smiles during LifeWise Ashland City’s Pickleball Fundraising Tournament. Held at both Cahn Grove and the brand-new Brookside West courts, the event brought together 56 players, dozens of volunteers, and generous sponsors—all for one shared mission: to support biblical character education in Ashland City Schools.
And support they did.
Thanks to the generosity of local sponsors and donors, LifeWise Ashland City didn’t just meet their $12,000 fundraising goal—they obliterated it. The tournament raised nearly $42,000, and with an additional $20,000 matching grant from the Samaritan Hospital Foundation, the total soared to over $62,000. The funds will go toward expanding the Release Time Religious Instruction program for the coming school year.
“We are so appreciative and grateful for such a connected community,” said LifeWise Ashland Director, Mary Dolce. “It’s inspiring to see our city rally together to teach our public school students morals and values from a biblical perspective.”
The tournament was divided into three events: men’s doubles at Brookside West, women’s doubles at Cahn Grove in the morning, and mixed doubles in the afternoon. Participants played under blue skies and cool breezes that made for perfect playing conditions.
Sponsors played a major role in making the day a success. At the platinum level, Dolce’s Tree Service and IBRA led the charge. Gold-level sponsors included Long Hauler Trailers, Hedstrom Fitness, and Timberline Construction. Silver supporters featured Grace Church, Fin Feather Fur, Donley Ford, and Priest Dental. A host of bronze-level backers and additional contributors rounded out the field, showing that Ashland businesses truly believe in giving back.
LifeWise Ashland City launched its program in January 2023 and ended last school year serving nearly 530 students. With this fundraising boost, organizers hope to expand into Ashland High School and increase transportation options to accommodate continued growth.
State Representative Melanie Miller, speaking on behalf of herself and her husband, Ashland Mayor Matt Miller, praised the mission of LifeWise:
“We are so thankful that moms and dads in our community have the opportunity to allow their children to not only get a great education at Ashland City Schools, but also to learn more about the very God who created them—and His truths—at the same time.”
The couple also expressed deep appreciation for the local school board, superintendent, volunteers, and donors who make the program possible.
Anyone interested in donating or volunteering as a LifeWise teacher can visit: www.lifewise.org/ashlandcityoh
Thanks to Kerry Snyder for sending me 25 pictures to post
