Florida’s Children First benefits from $180,000 Aspen pickleball fundraiser
A Florida child-welfare advocacy organization was among the beneficiaries of a $180,000 fundraising effort that brought professional pickleball players, lawyers, business leaders, and community volunteers together in Aspen, Colorado, July 21 to support children in foster care.
Florida’s Children First, founded by Ft. Lauderdale attorney and children’s advocate Howard Talenfeld, joined the National Association of Counsel for Children and the Youth Law Center as beneficiaries of the second annual “Pickle for a Purpose” tournament.
Talenfeld, who also serves on the Youth Law Center’s board, conceived the tournament with his wife, Julie, founder and CEO of BoardroomPR. Aspen Pickleball organized the event, which brought together professional and recreational players, sponsors, families, and volunteers under the banner of “Team Aspen.”
The event raised $180,000 toward a $200,000 fundraising goal. Organizers said the money will support efforts to ensure children in foster care have access to the benefits, support, and quality legal representation they need to stay safe and thrive.
“What we saw in Aspen was Team Aspen at its best — pros, sponsors, volunteers, and neighbors all asking the same question: what can we do?" Talenfeld said. "That energy is exactly what it will take to guarantee every child in foster care has a caring, qualified champion by their side, fighting for them, and paving their path to a successful future.”
Florida’s Children First Executive Director Geori Seldine said the event demonstrated the commitment of the Aspen community to protecting children.
“Raising $180,000 and setting a world record for our cause shows just how committed this community is to protecting children everywhere and equipping them for lifelong success,” Seldine said. “Every dollar raised strengthens our ability to fight for their futures.”
The tournament also produced an unusual record during its live charity auction. A pickleball paddle signed by Andrei Daescu, a top PPA player and the 2025 Major League Pickleball champion and MVP, sold for $7,900. Organizers said they believe the sale set a world record for a signed pickleball paddle sold at a live charity auction, surpassing the previous record of $7,888.
The day included competitive play involving players from clubs throughout the region. Volunteers also participated throughout the event, with organizers saying many repeatedly asked how they could help support children in foster care.
Several people who were formerly in foster care and now work with Florida’s Children First, the Youth Law Center, or the National Association of Counsel for Children also participated.
Donations can be made through Florida’s Children First.
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