Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish a consistent and transparent process for selecting charitable organizations supported by the Panhandle Pickleball Club. The Club is committed to making a positive impact on the community through fundraising, events, and volunteer efforts.

Charity Focus Areas

Priority will be given to organizations that demonstrate a direct impact within the local community.  To align with the Club’s mission, charitable efforts will focus on the following categories:

• • Why it fits: Easy to connect with “growing the next generation.”

  • After-school programs, scholarships and mentorship programs

• • Why it fits: Aligns naturally with pickleball and active lifestyles.

• • Why it fits: Very strong community and donor support.

• • Why it fits: Broad impact and easy for members to rally behind.

• • Why it fits: Direct connection to pickleball and inclusivity mission.

  • Programs for individuals with disabilities and adaptive sports initiatives

• • Why it fits: High engagement, especially for social events.

• • Why it fits: Keeps impact visible and local.

  • Parks and recreation improvements, local schools and community development.

Selection Structure

The Club will adopt the following approach:

• Primary Charity Focus (Annual): 70-80%
  One to two primary charities or categories will be selected each year to receive most of the fundraising support.

• Secondary Charities (Rotating): 20-30%
  Additional charities may be supported through specific events or community outreach.

Selection Criteria

Charities will be evaluated based on:

• Alignment with the Club’s mission and values

• Demonstrated local community impact

• Transparency and credibility of the organization

• Opportunities for member engagement (events, volunteering, etc.)

• Suitability for fundraising events and sponsorship alignment

Nomination Process

• Submissions / Nominations should include:

• • Organization name

  • Mission and impact summary

  • Reason for recommendation

• Submissions / Nominations will be collected annually prior to annual membership meeting 

Approval Process

• The Board of Directors will review all nominations.

• Final approval of the Primary Charity and major fundraising beneficiaries will be made by a vote of membership.

• Smaller event-specific charities may be approved by the Board of Directors and/or designated Director, provided selections align with membership input and this policy.

Fund Allocation

• Funds raised through designated events will be allocated to the identified charity.

Transparency & Communication

• The Club will communicate selected charities to members and the public.

• Whenever possible, the Club will share the impact of funds raised (e.g., donated dollars, programs supported).