Fundraisers don’t have to mean formal dinners, assigned tables, and speeches. A pickleball mixer is a fun way to shake things up and give your supporters a chance to connect while raising money for a good cause.

At Wolverine Pickleball, we’ve got the space and amenities to make it happen. With 12 indoor courts, comfortable gathering areas, great food and drinks, and plenty of activities beyond pickleball, our Ann Arbor facility is a great spot for local nonprofits and charitable organizations to host their next event.

Here’s why a pickleball mixer might be just what your next fundraiser needs.

1. The Great Equalizer: Everyone Can Join the Fun

Unlike a traditional golf tournament, pickleball doesn’t require years of experience to have a good time. It’s easy to learn, approachable for different ages and athletic abilities, and just competitive enough to keep things interesting. Plus, you don’t need to be a Wolverine member to participate.

Add one of our Learn to Play sessions to your fundraiser, and our certified instructors can help newcomers get comfortable with the game. It’s a great way to welcome a mix of supporters, including young professionals, active retirees, and anyone who’s been curious about trying pickleball.

And for guests who’d rather cheer from the sidelines? Our indoor lounges and outdoor recreation areas offer plenty of space to hang out, catch up, and enjoy the event without picking up a paddle.

2. We’ll Help Handle the Details

Planning a fundraiser comes with a long to-do list. Our events team can help take some of that work off your plate, so you can spend less time managing logistics and more time with your guests.

Our private event packages can be customized to include:

• Event Coordination: Help with court reservations, scheduling, activities, and event logistics.
• Professional Instruction: Certified instructors to lead beginner-friendly Learn to Play sessions and organize games.
• Equipment: Paddles and balls are available, so there’s no need for guests to bring their own gear.
• Food and Beverage Packages: Catering, refreshments, and drink options to keep everyone fueled throughout the event.

From a casual afternoon mixer to a larger fundraising celebration, we’ll help you put together an event that works for your group.

3. More Networking, Less Small Talk

One of the best parts of a pickleball mixer is how naturally people get to know each other.

Instead of spending the entire event with the same group, players can rotate between games, team up with different partners, and meet new opponents along the way.

It’s an easy way for donors, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters to mingle without the pressure of formal networking. For nonprofits in Ann Arbor and throughout Washtenaw County, it’s also a chance to introduce new people to your organization while giving longtime supporters something different to enjoy.

4. Plenty of Ways to Play, Mingle, and Fundraise

With 78,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, Wolverine Pickleball has a lot more going on than pickleball. Our facility has plenty of room for guests to spread out, enjoy some food and drinks, and participate in other activities throughout your fundraiser.

Some of our favorite amenities include:

• 30-Tap Self-Serve Beverage Wall: The Pour Decisions tap wall features beer, wine, and mixed drinks. Ask our team about adding beverage options to your event package.
• On-Site Eatery: Enjoy delicious food from our on-site eatery, with catering options available for your group.
• Sponsor Recognition: Highlight event sponsors, share a slideshow, or showcase your organization’s work using the large-screen monitor with HDMI connectivity in our private event room.
• Raffles and Silent Auctions: Take advantage of the countertop and gathering spaces in our lounges to set up raffle baskets, auction displays, and other fundraising activities.
• Outdoor Entertainment: Six sand courts, six bocce/cornhole lanes, lounge seating, and fire pits give guests even more ways to have fun between games.

5. Make Your Fundraiser Your Own

Every nonprofit has different goals, and no two fundraisers need to look the same. Wolverine Pickleball can accommodate smaller gatherings of 20–30 guests or larger events of up to approximately 300 people.

You can reserve several pickleball courts, use our private event room (50 seated or 75 standing), or talk with our team about renting a larger portion of the facility.

Want to add some creative fundraising activities? Here are a few ideas:

• Court Sponsorships: Invite local businesses to sponsor individual courts and display their names during the event.
• Challenge Courts: Let guests donate to take on an instructor, experienced player, or local VIP.
• Raffles and Silent Auctions: Collect donated gift baskets, products, and experiences for guests to bid on or win.
• Ticket Packages: Offer different ticket options that include gameplay, food, drinks, or additional activities.

We’ll help you find a setup that fits your group’s size, budget, and fundraising plans.

Host Your Next Charity Fundraiser at Wolverine Pickleball

Give your supporters a reason to get out, get moving, and have some fun for a good cause! At Wolverine Pickleball, we’ve got the courts, gathering spaces, food, drinks, and event support to help make your next Ann Arbor fundraiser a success.

Let’s get your fundraiser on the calendar! Explore our private event options.