GLADSTONE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Delta County will soon have more places for pickleball enthusiasts to play, thanks to a crowdfunding effort by a local club.
Gladstone Area Pickleball launched its “Courts of Dreams” campaign in late July, with the goal of building eight dedicated pickleball courts at the John & Melissa Besse Sports Park.
“Our mission all along has been to promote the sport,” said treasurer Janet Shandonay-Beauvais. “Many of us that have played for a while realize how fun it is and the health benefits. We’re looking to broaden that for the community, bring more people in, and also offer visitors a place to play.”
By September 28, the nonprofit group had to raise $50,000 to secure a matching grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Public Spaces Community Places program.
More than 176 individuals and businesses donated to the “Courts of Dreams” campaign. Gladstone Area Pickleball exceeded its fundraising goal, ending the campaign with $66,101.
“We’re very grateful for all in the community that have helped us,” Shandonay-Beauvais said. “The response that we got was overwhelming, and we’re so happy to be at this point now.”
The “Courts of Dreams” campaign also brought in new players to join Gladstone Area Pickleball.
“We’ve had more people join our club and also follow us on Facebook,” said Shandonay-Beauvais. “We’ve had people from different areas of the state even support us too, and they’re looking to come back.”
Going forward, Gladstone Area Pickleball will work with the City of Gladstone to begin excavating before winter to prepare the site for spring.
To learn more about Gladstone Area Pickleball and to see future updates on the courts, visit the group’s Facebook page.
