Pickleball Club funds Improvements to Habersham Co. Courts Complex

Habersham County is celebrating its partnership with the Habersham County Pickleball Club.  Through private fundraising efforts, new bleachers and sun covers were installed this week at the pickleball courts behind Habersham County’s Ruby Fulbright Aquatic Center near Clarkesville.  These enhancements were purchased through the pickleball group’s fundraising activities.  “Our promise to the Habersham County Commissioners was for any fundraisers/events/donations we receive, we’d give back to the county by providing enhancements to the facilities or via donations to local charities and continue to provide our own equipment, such as balls, for our members,” said Peggy Fortson of the pickleball club.  “Prior to our club being established, we self-funded this sport from the beginning through donations from our members. We’ve bought the nets – 12-plus over the years due to replacement of wear and tear – and balls on an ongoing basis. And any other accessories we have, we have paid for.”  New covered bleachers have been added on the parking lot side of the courts.  “The bleachers were part of the court project package not paid for with taxpayer dollars and not a separate purchase,” Fortson said. “The bleacher cover was recently accomplished by funds from donations. Another recent donation was the AED and security cabinet for the outdoor pickleball/tennis court complex area. In addition, a donation will be made to the Habersham County Parks and Recreation Scholarship Grant Program in the near future to help children in our community who might not otherwise be able to participate in activities. On behalf of Habersham County Pickleball Club Inc., we are proud of our ability to give back to our community.”