As the Holiday Season arrives, so does the Giving Season, and what better way to give to others than to help give someone else the joy of tennis.

The USTA Florida Foundation has been impacting the world of tennis since 2004 and in 2023, the organization, with a mission of “Changing Lives through Tennis” has been doing that and more. 

Twice a year, the Foundation opens applications for its grants, giving tennis organizations, programs, and groups a chance to receive funding to help improve or bring the sport to their community. So far, in 2023, the USTA Florida Foundation has awarded more than 70 grants. Those came in the form of Equipment, Program Support, Wheelchair, and Hurricane Relief.  

Hear from some of our grant recipients and learn how your generous donations are impacting the lives of many. 

“Through this generosity, we were able to have racquets for juniors who otherwise would not have been able to afford these to take clinics and lessons,” said a spokesperson from the Williams Family YMCA Tennis. “This was a great way to get new juniors to learn the sport of tennis.” 

The Posh Rock Tennis Foundation received a grant from USTA Florida Foundation and thanks to everyone’s donations, the less fortunate have gotten a chance to experience the sport. “Julia always loved tennis, but we could never afford to put her in a program,” Julia’s parents said. “Now she’s playing every week [at the Posh Rock Tennis Foundation] and is looking to make the school team next year.” 

The MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation has been providing kids with Tennis-n-Tutoring since 1996 thanks to donations and grants received. “Because of supporters like you [USTA Florida Foundation], we will continue providing vital youth development programs and transforming lives for decades to come,” they said. 

Beachview Tennis Club, which was destroyed in the 2022 hurricane season, received a relief grant from the USTA Florida Foundation to help rebuild its 5 clay courts, pro shop, and facility. “Thanks to the USTA Florida Foundation, Beachview was able to bring all of these amenities back to the island,” said Toni Halski, owner of the tennis club. “For that I am forever grateful.” 

If you want to take part in the Giving Season and gift someone the love of tennis this year, visit ustafloridafoundation.com/recurring-donation. A small gift can make a world of difference.