Pickleball Players Brave the Cold for a Good Cause
The Giving Coast
SRQ DAILY WEDNESDAY PHILANTHROPY EDITION
WEDNESDAY FEB 4, 2026 |
BY BARBIE HEIT
Pictured: Kathy Schwartz (left) and Eunice Grippaldi bundled up for a worthy cause.
It was cold and windy on Saturday, January 31. Still, warmth was in the hearts of the residents of the Esplanade at Palmer Ranch who gathered for the community’s sixth annual Pickleball Street Brawl, raising awareness and donations for a worthy cause.
The event featured seven neighborhood pickleball teams, each representing a different street, competing for bragging rights and the coveted "winner" label to display on their street sign.
Beyond the competition, the Street Brawl served as a fundraiser for Second Chance Last Opportunity, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. This organization is dedicated to empowering individuals in crisis by equipping them with the essential skills and tools to lead more productive lives, serving as a gateway to hope and positive change.
Tournament organizer Kathy Schwartz shared, "Our Pickleball Street Brawl is the most requested event in our community. Residents love to show their support for the work that goes into this event by donating to the wonderful charity, Second Chance Last Opportunity."
The tournament raised over $2,000 and much-needed supplies–including food and personal care items. The generous donations were later delivered to those in need by resident Eeunice Grippaldi, who volunteers with the organization.
For more information about Second Chance Last Opportunity, please visit their website: secondchancelastopportunity.org/
Pictured: Kathy Schwartz (left) and Eunice Grippaldi bundled up for a worthy cause.
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