ABOUT US
Who We Are
The Youth Pickleball Initiative (YPI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to introducing, growing, and sustaining youth participation in pickleball.
We believe pickleball is more than a sport — it’s a powerful tool for building confidence, promoting healthy lifestyles, and creating meaningful community connections for young people.
YPI exists to ensure that every child has the opportunity to play, learn, and grow through pickleball — regardless of background or financial circumstance.
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Our Mission
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To make pickleball a gateway to physical fitness, mental well-being, and social enrichment for youth.
We do this by creating accessible programs that combine skill development, mentorship, and fun, while partnering with clubs, schools, and community organizations to expand reach and impact.
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Why Youth Pickleball Matters
Today’s kids face more barriers to physical activity than ever before — from rising costs to limited access and increased screen time. Pickleball offers a unique solution:
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Easy to learn and welcoming for beginners
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Encourages movement, coordination, and confidence
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Builds sportsmanship, teamwork, and social skills
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Creates a lifelong connection to an active lifestyle
Pickleball meets kids where they are — and gives them a place to belong.
What We Do
YPI supports youth through:
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Youth leagues focused on development, fun, and inclusivity
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Clinics, camps, and after-school programs
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Equipment access for kids and communities in need
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Partnerships with clubs and schools across the Pacific Northwest and beyond
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Pathways for competition, leadership, and long-term engagement
Our model allows local clubs to deliver programs while YPI provides structure, resources, curriculum, and guidance — creating consistency and scalability.
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Our Vision
We envision a future where:
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Pickleball is recognized as a mainstream youth sport
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Every community has affordable youth pickleball opportunities
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Kids grow up seeing sport as a source of joy, confidence, and connection
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Youth pickleball becomes a pipeline for healthy, engaged adulthood
We’re not just growing the game — we’re growing the people who play it.
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Community First. Kids Always.
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Everything we do is guided by a simple belief:
When kids have access, encouragement, and a supportive community, incredible things happen.
YPI is built on collaboration — with families, coaches, clubs, volunteers, and donors who believe in the power of sport to change lives.