On Saturday, Voices of Stephenson County used the growing popularity of pickleball to highlight the important issue of domestic violence awareness. As one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, pickleball became more than just a recreational activity—it served as a platform to engage the community on a critical social issue.
The idea for the event came from one of Voices’ employees, who was passionate about pickleball and taught their colleagues the game. What started as a fun and regular activity at Krape Park soon evolved into something more meaningful. The organization saw an opportunity to use the game as a way to bring people together while addressing the pressing issue of domestic violence in a supportive and approachable environment.
Beth Maskell, the Executive Director of Voices, emphasized the importance of activities like these for both the staff and the survivors they support. “It’s important for us as staff to engage in activities that help relieve stress. For survivors, it’s essential to come out, feel the sunshine, and engage in positive activities. It’s all part of promoting a healthy lifestyle,” Maskell explained, underlining the value of recreation as a tool for healing and community connection.
In addition to raising awareness, Voices of Stephenson County also sought tangible contributions from the community. They encouraged donations of essential household items such as paper towels, toilet paper, laundry detergent, and dish soap. These items are crucial for the organization’s operations, helping them continue to provide much-needed support to domestic violence survivors.
The event seamlessly blended physical activity with a call to action, reminding participants of the broader mission: to foster a community where survivors feel seen, supported, and empowered, all while enjoying the simple joys of a shared game.