The Harvest Foundation has generously provided a donation to enhance the pickleball facilities in the independent city of Martinsville and Henry County, Virginia, offering local players increased opportunities to engage in the sport.
Two $25,00 Grants
At the recent Pickleball Free-For-All event at the Henry County Recreation Center in Collinsville, Martinsville and Henry County representatives were awarded $25,000 each.
These funds are designated for the refurbishment and adaptation of existing outdoor tennis courts to accommodate the rising popularity of pickleball.
Enriching Recreational Options
The Martinsville Bulletin reported how Dr. Sandy Strayer, program officer at The Harvest Foundation, emphasized the significance of these grants in a statement, expressing that they will not only enrich recreational options within the community but also promote physical activity, community involvement, and the community’s overall well-being.
Dr. Strayer stated, “This program exemplifies what can be achieved when we work together for a common goal. I look forward to seeing you all on the courts.”
Martinsville
In Martinsville, attention will be directed towards the rehabilitation of the two lower tennis courts at Martinsville High School on Commonwealth Boulevard, as well as the Spruce Street tennis courts on Spruce Street.
This will involve necessary repairs for cracks, along with recoating and restriping to accommodate both tennis and pickleball enthusiasts.
Martinsville Mayor L.C. Jones expressed enthusiasm regarding pickleball and its benefits: “With pickleball rapidly gaining popularity, we’re thrilled to provide our residents with courts where they can enjoy the game and lead an active lifestyle.”
Longstanding Interest
Former city manager Leon Towarnicki recognized the longstanding interest in pickleball among residents and pursued a grant to address this need in an act of goodwill.
Glen Adams, interim Martinsville city manager, noted Towarnicki’s foresight in securing this grant despite budget constraints, stating, “He knew funding was short, so as a last good deed, he applied for a grant on the way out the door.”
This grant stands as yet another testament to The Harvest Foundation’s unwavering support in the city’s endeavors to enhance Martinsville, ensuring it becomes an even more vibrant place for work and leisure.
Henry County
In Henry County, Jaycee Park, located on Parkwood Court in Collinsville, will see improvements to four existing tennis courts.
These enhancements will involve repairs for cracks, applying new paint lines, and providing necessary equipment for pickleball enthusiasts.
Roger Adams, Director of Henry County Parks and Recreation, said, “We are ecstatic to have a dedicated pickleball court in Henry County.”
“The growth of this sport is tremendous, and we’ve seen the demand for an outdoor venue continue to increase. It will make for a fantastic addition to Jaycee Park.”
Jim Adams, chairman of the Henry County Board of Supervisors, underscored the continuing benefits of the partnership: “Our partnership with the Harvest Foundation continues to pay dividends for our residents.
“Recreational amenities continue to be a vital part of our broader economic development initiative as we invest in these types of place-making efforts which make our community more appealing for families.”
