Pickleball & PJ's Tournament Raises $3,500; 600 Pajamas Collected During Annual Drive

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Community members traded competition for compassion during the first-ever Pickleball & PJ's Tournament, raising $3,500 to support the advocacy efforts of the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program.

Doing The Good hosted the tournament at Wildwood Racquet & Wellness Club as a supportive initiative for the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program. The event brought together teams, sponsors, volunteers and supporters for an afternoon of friendly competition and community impact. Proceeds from the tournament will help the organization continue providing free and confidential advocacy services for residents living in long-term care facilities.

‍"We are overwhelmed by the generosity and enthusiasm shown by everyone who participated in the first Pickleball & PJ's Tournament," said Zanzy Lewis, executive director of the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program. "Not only did participants help raise critical funds for our advocacy efforts, but they also helped shine a light on the importance of protecting the rights, dignity and well-being of long-term care residents."‍ ‍

The Long Term Care Ombudsman Program's mission is to advocate for the rights and well-being of long-term care facility residents by providing support, resolving concerns and facilitating access to quality care and services.‍ ‍

"Every dollar raised helps us continue serving some of the most vulnerable members of our community," Lewis said. "Because of this incredible support, we can be there for residents and their families when they need someone to listen and help resolve concerns."‍ ‍

The event was held in partnership with Doing The Good's annual Pajama Drive. This year's drive collected approximately 600 pajamas of all sizes and styles, which will be distributed to residents living in long-term care facilities throughout the region.‍ ‍

"Something as simple as a new pair of pajamas can provide comfort, dignity and a reminder that someone cares," Lewis said. "We're grateful to everyone who donated and helped make such a meaningful difference."‍ ‍

Doing The Good also recognized the generous support of its event sponsors, including Wealth Advisors Group, 1B Specialty, LLC, Anonymous, Beers Mallers, Sterling Realty, and Burt Blee, Dixon, Sutton & Bloom.‍ ‍

Tournament champions included:‍

• Bracket #1 Winner: Margaritas

• Bracket #2 Winner: Wags to Riches

• Bracket #3 Winner: The Diters

"We launched this event hoping to bring people together around a cause that matters, and the community exceeded every expectation," Lewis said. "We are already looking forward to making next year's Pickleball & PJ's Tournament even bigger and more impactful."

For more information about the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program and its advocacy services, visit www.longtermcareombudsman.org.

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