Growing the Game of Pickleball in Dorchester County, Maryland
Harvesting Hope Youth and Family Wellness in partnership with Mace’s Lane Middle School in Dorchester County, Maryland recently hosted the 2nd Annual Youth Expo. With over 200 youngsters and adults in attendance, the annual event provided impactful information and education to youth and their parents. This year, some of the topics of discussion for parents included Impact of Childhood Trauma on Behavior and Education, Mediation Skills, and Advocating for Your Child with Special Needs in the School. For the youth in attendance, speakers discussed Careers in Production Management, Youth Tobacco, Nicotine and e-cigarette Education along with Safety Awareness. Numerous community agencies were also on hand and offered information and other activities.
One specific activity was facilitated by a local group of pickleball enthusiasts who worked with 
Dorchester County’s Recreation and Parks Department and provided an introduction to the sport of pickleball. Many of the youngsters picked up paddles and took to the courts and thoroughly enjoyed learning and playing the new game.
Dorchester County Recreation and Parks is excited about the future of the sport in its county and plans are well underway for future visits with local pickleball players and their growing interest in promoting the sport to the youth of the area.
