Categories: EventsFeaturesNews

Sold Out Tennis Ball Raises $250,000 for Portland Tennis & Education

Portland, OR. The fourth annual Tennis Ball to benefit Portland Tennis & Education (PT&E) was a “smashing” success. On November 2nd over 365 education advocates, philanthropists, business leaders, tennis players, and other supporters packed the Melody Event Center in Southeast Portland. They raised $250,000 which is a record for PT&E and will be earmarked for afterschool programs that feature academic support and tennis coaching for low-income students. (Photo credit, Matt Banner)

Scholar athlete Leilani shares the story of her 10 years in the PT&E program.

At the event, board members Susie Hunt Moran, Executive Director Jorge Fuenmayor and board member Harry Aldrich pose for a photo.

Guests gathered around tables decorated with vintage wooden tennis racquets for cocktails, dinner, and live and silent auctions and had the opportunity to hear from two longtime PT&E students who shared their stories and the impact the program has made in their lives.

From Portland Tennis & Education:

Portland Tennis & Education (PT&E) is dedicated to the academic success and lifelong health of Portland’s underserved youth and their families. PT&E students, known within the organization as scholar-athletes, participate in a year-round, tuition-free program that includes academic tutoring, project-based learning, fitness, outdoor education, science and music clubs, and tennis. Students enter the program as young as kindergarten and often stay until they graduate high school, meaning they receive consistent, ongoing support to help them succeed. Life skills are taught at every stage of the program, ranging from eye contact and a firm handshake to writing a resume and preparing for a job interview. 100% of PT&E Scholar Athletes have graduated high school on-time and continued on to college or professional careers.

 

 

2
Elisa Klein

I’ve been a professional journalist and writer since 1987, (and long-time reporter for KOIN-TV.) As a nationally published reporter, with a Master’s Degree in Journalism, I love to report positive news and information. Journalism has also connected me with another non-profit where I served as a leader; the Northwest’s biggest writer’s organization: The Willamette Writers.

Recent Posts

Portland Art Museum Exhibit Will Highlight Contemporary Art from the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer

Portland, OR. Opening in September 2025, the Portland Art Museum (PAM) presents Global Icons, Local Spotlight:…

22 hours ago

VIPs Gearing up for Classic Wines Foundation Gala

Portland, OR. Organizers say the "Salon de Vin" benefit for Classic Wines is shaping up.…

1 week ago

Diamonds & Denim Gala Will Benefit The Links, Inc.

Portand, OR. The Portland Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, and the White Rose Educational Foundation…

3 weeks ago

Nonprofits Honored as Providence Health Plan Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Portland, OR.  Providence Health Plan recently celebrated its 40th anniversary with a totally rad 1980’s…

3 weeks ago

Oregon Historical Society Hosts History Makers Gala

Portland, OR. The Oregon Historical Society’s (OHS) annual Oregon History Makers Awards & Dinner recognizes…

1 year ago

Lan Su Garden Kicks off November With Floral Design Competition

Portland, OR. Move over pumpkins, the Lan Su Chinese Garden is welcoming fall with its…

1 year ago