ACE: Serving up pickleball
The JFS Arts and Community Exploration (ACE) program is a person-centered program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, engaging in center-based activities and community outings. When ACE Activities Specialist Kim Badger shared her passion for pickleball with program participants, dinks, volleys, and serves joined the activity rotation.
Playing sports provides an opportunity to be a part of a community, increase self-esteem, and build confidence while getting exercise, all of which improves our overall well-being. “I have a passion for playing pickleball,” shared Kim, “and I love the opportunity to share something I enjoy with people. I shared a few pickleball videos with ACE participants, and it spurred interest in playing.”
Initially, Kim brought in equipment she had, but when participation expanded, a call for donations brought in additional paddles and gear. Kim began teaching pickleball basics in the program’s gym weekly, and when interest continued to grow, monthly outings to Epic Pickleball Club were added to the calendar.
Thanks to the generosity of Epic, court time is donated, and players and volunteers enjoy matches in a welcoming environment. “Participants have developed a comfort level at Epic and have begun to recognize and get to know people there and become familiar with the routine,” said Kim. “It’s fun to watch and cheer on other players in addition to getting to play. Everyone gets engaged.”