Fort Myers nonprofits host pickleball day for kids and teens

Nearly 50 children and teens participated in a day of pickleball, mentorship, and connection at PickleRage in south Fort Myers, hosted by two local nonprofits. The event, part of the Heartfelt Hangouts program organized by A.N.A.’s Friends, was designed to spark joy, build confidence, and create meaningful connections. Heartfelt Hangouts offer children and teens opportunities to try new activities, gain life skills, and connect with peers in a welcoming environment. Athletes Activating Champions and Empowerment (AACE) ambassadors, student-athletes dedicated to mentoring and encouraging youth, joined the event to teach pickleball fundamentals and build positive relationships with the children. “Some of the most heartwarming things that come out of events like this are when we hear a child who says, ‘I didn’t know anything about that and I can do it now. They find confidence. They’re around their peers. They’re around kids that are building them up,” said Jessica Kaestner, CEO of A.N.A.’s Friends. Noah Moon, founder of Athletes Activating Champions and Empowerment, said, "We’re going to take away just the experience of being able to give back to the community with ANA’s Friends and build friendships with kids who aren’t as fortunate as us and have gone through some tough times. Being able to give back to them makes a huge impact to not only them but the AACE ambassadors as well.” DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.