The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is recognizing May’s Volunteers of the Month, the Naramata Pickleball Group from Electoral Area “E” (Naramata).

This passionate group promotes their love for pickleball by offering coaching sessions, maintaining community courts, and donating equipment such as paddles and pickle balls to Naramata Elementary School students. The group has also recently established a partnership with the Naramata Centre.

“Our group is proud of this partnership with the community-based centre,” says Naramata Pickleball enthusiast Vince Boutilier. “We happily donate hours of labour in exchange for our use of the centre, it’s a win-win.”

The group has expanded to more than 70 pickleball players and has formed a Board of Directors. Some of these members also volunteer with other community organizations such as the Naramata Parks and Recreation Commission, Naramata Seniors Housing Society and the Naramata Volunteer Fire Department.

“The Naramata Pickleball group has had a strong presence in the community for many years,” says Electoral Area E Director Karla Kozakevich. “Not only have they shown dedication to the sport but also a passion for the community. Vince and the Pickleball group members continue to contribute tremendously as volunteers and as excellent community partners, and they’re always looking for opportunities to collaborate.”

Volunteerism is a critical aspect in helping RDOS Recreation strive to promote its goal of “Healthy Individuals and Communities”.

To learn more about RDOS volunteer opportunities, including the Community Champions program, please visit the RDOS website.

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Mark Pendergraft, Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen

Contacts:

Nancy Wigley
RDOS Recreation Administrative Assistant
250-490-4385 

Naramata Pickleballers (from left): Larry Brant, Frank Ammirati, Scott Desilets