Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America. Maybe 2026 is your year to hop on the trend, if you haven’t already! Chances are good there’s a nearby court where you can give it a try, even in towns as small as Hardwick and Balaton. Pickleball courts are popping up across our region, many supported by our community foundation partners.
Last year, Glencoe Area Community Foundation granted $1,000 to the City of Glencoe for new pickleball courts and equipment.
“One of our favorite things about the pickleball court project is that the efforts were entirely led by community members, showcasing the vision and persistence of Glencoe residents to add this amenity to our town,” said Glencoe Area Community Foundation Advisory Board Chair Rachel Schuette.
Pickleball part of Glencoe’s plan
Residents specifically requested pickleball courts in feedback from Glencoe’s most recent comprehensive plan. Financial support came from the City of Glencoe, area residents, businesses and local organizations. The Glencoe Park Board requested city council approval for funding from the Park Improvement Fund. Council members agreed to match the dollars raised, not to exceed $75,000, which was half of the estimated project cost of $150,000. Final project costs came in under budget at $146,563.
The Glencoe Area Pickleball Group was able to raise $91,000 with support from area residents, businesses and organizations. The extra funds have been earmarked for future maintenance of the courts.
Lynda Wagoner got involved with the project as a member of the local park board and then joined the Glencoe Area Pickleball Group to fundraise for the new courts. She said pickleball is a great way to get active.
“People of all ages can play, and studies have shown that it improves both physical and mental health,” Lynda said.
Located at Oscar Olson Park, the new pickleball courts are part broader upgrades at the city park. Another amenity added this year is the Glencoe Rotary Dog Park, a joint project with the Glencoe Area Community Foundation.
Foundation supports a thriving community
Grant priorities for the local community foundation are projects that promise a long-term benefit to the Glencoe area, often focused on the health and wellness of community members, Rachel said.
Built by donors, the Glencoe Area Community Foundation (GACF) helps people, organizations, and businesses that want to improve our community now and in the future.
GACF was founded in 2019 and is led by a local advisory board. Since inception, it has awarded 14 grants to local groups through an annual application process.
Our network of 31 community foundations supports passionate people with the resources to make positive change. A team of local advisory board members guides each community foundation by fundraising, recommending grants, telling stories of good work happening locally and promoting their town.
Project funds for pickleball courts
Grants aren’t the only way our community foundation partners support projects. They can also open project funds to raise money for a specific goal. Two of our community foundation partners are actively fundraising for local pickleball court in 2026.
Litchfield has four existing courts built in 2020, but it’s not enough to space to accommodate everyone who wants to play – and leave room for more to join. Litchfield Area Community Foundation is hosting a project fund to raise money for additional courts.
Clara City is looking to construct pickleball courts to enhance the city’s existing sports field. The Clara City Area Community Foundation opened a project fund to collect donations for the courts.
“Project funds let people see their generosity come to life. When a community can watch a project take shape, it builds excitement, awareness, and connection. But the best part is that they make it possible for our partners to create something genuinely meaningful for the community,” said SWIF Community Gift Officer Jeff Vetsch.
Give Where You Live
Support your local community foundation or another fund that benefits a cause you care about close to home – like new pickleball courts! See a full list of our partner funds in southwest Minnesota.
