Pickleball & PJ’s event raises awareness and support for long-term care residents
FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Long Term Care Ombudsman Program is inviting the community to grab a paddle, pull on their comfiest pajamas and support advocacy for long-term care residents during its upcoming Pickleball & PJ’s fundraiser. The double-elimination tournament is slated for April 25th from 1 to 5 pm at Wildwood Racquet & Wellness Club in Fort Wayne.
The event blends friendly competition with a lighthearted twist. While it’s not required, it is encouraged that participants play pickleball in pajamas while raising funds to support residents living in nursing homes and assisted living communities across the region. Proceeds benefit the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program’s mission to advocate for quality care, dignity and residents’ rights.
“Pickleball & PJ’s is meant to be fun, welcoming and open to all levels of pickleball ability, but the reason behind it is incredibly important,” said Zanzy Lewis, executive director of the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program. “Every day, our advocates stand beside residents who need a voice. This event helps ensure we can continue that work while also bringing the community together in a joyful way.”
Lewis said the event is designed to appeal to teams, friends and supporters of all ages and experience levels.
“You don’t have to be a pickleball pro to participate,” Lewis said. “You just need a heart for advocacy and a willingness to show up—in pajamas if you want—to support some of the most vulnerable members of our community.”
Participants can register as teams, sponsor the event or make a donation. Funds raised will help sustain advocacy services, education and outreach for long-term care residents and their families.
“Our work is about dignity, respect and ensuring residents are heard,” Lewis said. “Events like Pickleball & PJ’s remind us that advocacy can be powerful and fun at the same time.”
More information, including registration and sponsorship details, is available at https://www.longtermcareombudsman.org/pickleball.
