Hi everyone! My name is Patrick Buffum, and I'm currently a member of Carolina Youth Coalition's Young Professionals Board and a volunteer for Carolina Youth Coalition (CYC). On March 22, 2025, our young professionals board will be hosting Paddles for a Purpose, a 18 team pickleball tournament and networking event at Tipsy Pickle from 9:30am-12:30pm. Attendees will also be able to learn more mentorship opportunities and CYC's 100 Heroes Campaign, which was launched in late 2024 to recruit 100 mentors in 100 days to support CYC's rising senior class!

Proceeds from the event will be used for Carolina Youth Coalition’s Persistence Program, which supports "Fellows" from the time they make their college decision through all four years of college with support such as assistance with travel to and from school, technology, dorm room supplies and other educational expenses, as well as connection to career development and internship opportunities.

" Being a part of CYC has helped me in many ways. Coming from a first-generation background, there were things I wasn’t exposed to in the education route. CYC filled that gap by giving me access to opportunities that otherwise wouldn’t have been possible. For example, going on college tours, preparing for college applications, and receiving mentorship that guided me through the entire process. Through mentorship and support, I received access to resources that gave me confidence in my future. I’m grateful for all the opportunities CYC provided that helped shape my path." - My Mentee, Simon Getahun 

Why "Paddles for a Purpose" is important to me:
I've spent the last six years supporting CYC and continue to be amazed with what this organization has done for students across the Charlotte Region. CYC's slogan "Every Dream Needs a Team" reflects how impactful a strong network of peers, mentors, and community resources can be when applied effectively to help young people reach their full potential, and I’ve seen firsthand the amazing programs and opportunities this organization has created for high-performing, under-resourced students throughout the Carolinas. During my time as a CYC Fellow mentor, I've gotten the opportunity to get to know Simon (pictured above), one of CYC's College Fellows, and I continue to be impressed with how much he's done academically and professionally during his time at NC State.

Welcome to Paddles for a Purpose!

Join us on Saturday, March 22nd for an unforgettable day of pickleball, networking, and purpose! Hosted by Carolina Youth Coalition’s (CYC) Young Professionals Board, this 18-team pickleball tournament is your chance to have fun, connect with like-minded young professionals, and make a lasting impact on our community.

Proceeds from this event will directly benefit CYC’s Persistence Program, which supports first-generation and under-resourced college students in staying on track and achieving their dreams of graduation and workforce readiness.

Why Your Support Matters

At Carolina Youth Coalition, we’re on a mission to nurture and propel high-achieving, under-resourced students to and through college. Every donation to Paddles for a Purpose helps us provide the guidance, mentorship, and resources students need to succeed in college and beyond.

Nearly 90% of CYC "Fellows" are first-generation college students. While getting into college is certainly an accomplishment, there are myriad barriers and obstacles that can derail first-generation and low-income college students from persisting through college and earning a degree. 

This is where CYC's Persistence Program steps in! Our holistic support follows Fellows from the time they make thier college decision through all four years of college with support such as assistance with travel to and from school, technology, dorm room supplies, and other education expenses, as well as connection to career development and internship opportunities. 

Have lots of fun and help CYC ensure our Fellows have what they need to graduate on time and be ready to enter the workforce! 

How You Can Make an Impact

Whether you’re playing in the tournament, attending to network, or simply donating, your participation will create ripple effects for students striving for brighter futures.

• Register to Play: Form a team and compete for the Paddles for a Purpose title!

• Fundraise: Rally your network to support this incredible cause by creating your own fundraising page.

• Donate: Every dollar counts and directly supports college persistence efforts.

Event Details

📅 Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025
📍 Location: Tipsy Pickle
🕘 Time: 9:30 am - 1:00 pm 

Spread the Word

Help us grow our impact by sharing this page with friends, family, and colleagues! Together, we can ensure that more students achieve their college dreams and transform their lives.

Let’s Rally Together for a Brighter Future!

Your paddle is more than just a tool for the game—it’s a symbol of the impact we can make together. Thank you for supporting the Carolina Youth Coalition and our incredible Fellows.

Donate Today or Register Now

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