Dunwoody’s FIRST SERVE, a local nonprofit on a mission to foster interest in the sport of tennis. delivered its first fully equipped tennis cart to Children’s Development Academy in Roswell.
“What began as free tennis lessons for local high schoolers has grown into a monthly Friday night junior round robin fundraiser that’s become our own version of Friday Night Lights,” said FIRST SERVE founder Kelly Ellis.
“Each month, we gather teenagers, parents, and supporters at Redfield Swim & Tennis for an evening of friendly matches, a taco bar, and a shared purpose – raising funds to donate fully-stocked tennis carts to schools and nonprofit organizations that otherwise wouldn’t have access to equipment,” Ellis said.
The response from the community has been inspiring, with local businesses and individuals stepping up to support the mission, she said. Each cart, which contains 200 tennis balls and a variety of racquets, costs about $400 to equip.
On June 27, the group donated its first tennis cart to the Children’s Development Academy in Roswell, and capped the day off with its monthly round robin that evening.
“We are so grateful to FIRST SERVE for donating a tennis cart filled with little racquets and balls for our pre-K kids,” said Children’s Development Academy CEO and Executive Director Sheila Sillitto. “The kids love it and it is such a great way to introduce tennis to a group of kids that otherwise wouldn’t have this opportunity!”
Ellis said the teens feel as much joy in giving opportunities to others to learn the sport, while also having a great time with long-time friends.
“It’s great to see the energy, the impact, and the joy of teenagers playing their hearts out for something bigger than themselves,” she said. “This is a truly dedicated group of kids who have known each other for years.”
