We know that every act of giving has a story behind it. Join us as we learn what moves our donors to dedicate their time, talents and financial support to changing lives within Florida.

What inspired you to start giving?

Without question, the culture of my youth at home and in school: YOU can make a difference in someone else’s life.

“We work to make a difference in the world. Our relationships are collaborative and responsible, and through our interactions we demonstrate honesty, integrity, and respect.”

The Ellis School K-12 – Pittsburgh, PA

What does giving mean to you?

To me, giving means sharing what I have an abundance of: time, money but mostly talent. I want to change the world even if it’s in the smallest way both on and off the tennis court.

Tennis is more than a sport. Come let USTA Florida and the Foundation show you how our volunteers make a difference every day. By the way, no tennis experience is required!

Why do you continue to give your time, talents, money, or more to your community?

It is both rewarding and FUN to be a part of a passionate team seeking to provide opportunities to children around the inclusive sport of tennis that can have such a dramatic impact on their lives and help them to become better citizens and people.

What would you tell others who are looking to start giving back?  Share a piece of advice that will help them get started?

Charitable contributions of time and money are equally helpful. Have you been thinking about donating to a charity, or looking for a new way to give back to your community? If you’re like most of us these days, you may be on a tight budget and feel like its difficult to come up with the extra money to give as freely as you would want. While giving money to charities helps them immensely and they rely on contributions to fulfill their mission, it can also be even more beneficial to give the gift of your time.

By volunteering directly with an organization like USTA Florida, you may get the chance to work with the individuals you are helping. You’ll touch lives as you help those in need, and they will truly appreciate the time you spend with them as your time is one of the most valuable gifts you can give. Working with people can be an especially rewarding opportunity as you’ll be able to see the impact your service has had, recognize the difference you are making in each individual’s life as you get to know them, and build valuable relationships.

Some people may prefer to work in a less visible manner and there are opportunities that don’t involve working directly with the public but will utilize your skill sets. These positions are just as important. There is always a service opportunity available for everyone!

Please share a favorite moment or story from when you volunteered or donated to an organization.

Volunteering for Special Olympics Florida Tennis on behalf of USTA Florida is definitely one of my passions.

• It is so important because it gives people who don’t normally have the chance to play sports and do everyday activities the opportunity to be a part of something big.
• It unites people with different disabilities to let them know that they’re not alone and that they can be just as good at sports and games in their own ways.
• It gives all those people who were told they couldn’t, a chance to prove everyone wrong.
• Sharing laughter and smiles!

Special Olympics Florida / Miami-Dade County @ State Games 2018 Skills Competition

We want to hear your giving story!  Email info@ustafloridafoundation.com to be featured next.