On June 6th, the Clifftops Pickleball Courts came alive with laughter, friendly competition, and the unmistakable energy of neighbors coming together for a shared purpose. Housing Hub hosted its second annual Pickleball with a Purpose, and the morning was nothing short of inspiring.

What began as a simple idea—pairing a fun community activity with a mission‑driven fundraiser—has quickly become one of our most joyful traditions. This year’s event brought together beginners, seasoned players, families, supporters, and curious spectators, all united by a desire to strengthen homeownership opportunities on the South Cumberland Plateau.

Learning, Playing, and Cheering Each Other On

The courts buzzed with activity as local IPTPA Pro Allen McDonald introduced new players to the basics of pickleball, turning nervous first‑timers into confident teammates within minutes. On the other side of the courts, IPTPA Master Pro Kenda West, founder of House of Courts Pickleball Club in Columbia, TN, guided more experienced players through strategy, technique, and fast‑paced play that drew cheers from the sidelines.

Whether people came to play, learn, or simply enjoy light bites and beverages, the atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and full of connection.

Celebrating Community Impact

Throughout the morning, Housing Hub staff and board members shared updates on our mission—especially the progress on House #2 and House #3, two homes that represent hope, stability, and a future rooted in Grundy County.

Thanks to the generosity of attendees, we raised $5,6000! And there is still time to give. Help us reach our $10,000 goal to unlock an additional $10,000 matching gift. Without a doubt, the event raised meaningful support toward building the kitchen in our third affordable home. Every donation, every conversation, and every moment on the court helped move that vision forward.

Donate | Housing Hub | South Cumberland Plateau, TN

A Heartfelt Thank You

Events like this are only possible because our community shows up—joyfully, generously, and with a shared belief that everyone deserves a place to call home. We are deeply grateful for the partners who helped make this year’s Pickleball with a Purpose such a success.

Corporate Sponsors

We extend our sincere appreciation to the businesses who invested in this event and in the future of homeownership on the Plateau:

Big A Marketing
MOONEY’S
Tower Community Bank
Oakes and Oliver’s
Monteagle Inn and Retreat Center
Mountain Goat Market
Mountain Top Restaurant
Gooch Beasley Realtors
Monteagle Sewanee Realtors
McEwen Group Realty
Piggly Wiggly
Sublime Haven Spa

Your generosity strengthens the foundation of our work and helps ensure more families can put down roots in Grundy County.

Planning Committee

A special thank‑you goes to our Pickleball with a Purpose Planning Committee, whose creativity, coordination, and dedication shaped every detail of the event.

Linda Baldini
Jeanine Jacobs
Lele McCollum
Lynn McDonald
Shannon Paty
Patti Ruccio
Karen Walton
Stephanie Wright

Your leadership brought this event to life—and your work made it joyful, welcoming, and impactful.

A Morning That Mattered

To everyone who played, volunteered, donated, or simply came to cheer: thank you. Your presence made a difference, and your support helps build more than homes. It builds belonging.

We can’t wait to see you on the courts again next year. Until then, we’ll keep working—together—to make homeownership possible for more families across the Plateau.

Pickleball with a Purpose: A Joy‑Filled Day of Community, Connection, and Impact