News & Resources
Make a Difference: Play Pickleball for a Cause

Volunteering can be a life-changing experience, and for Janice Lang, tutoring young readers through Empowering Children Bay Area (ECBA) has been even more rewarding than she imagined. Now, you can help, too, by picking up a paddle!
From Tutoring to Pickleball—Making a Lasting Impact
In 2021, Janice began volunteering at San Pedro Elementary School in San Rafael, CA, with a simple goal: to help children succeed in reading while enjoying time with bright, eager students. What she found was an experience that exceeded her expectations.
“I didn’t expect the level of organization, training, and support ECBA gives its volunteers,” Janice shared. “It makes all the difference in my confidence as a tutor and the productivity of our reading sessions.”
ECBA provides its volunteers with comprehensive training, ongoing support, and valuable resources to ensure that every tutoring session helps young learners thrive.
Join Us for the ECBA Pickleball Fundraiser!
Now, you can support ECBA’s mission in a fun and active way! Grab your paddle and hit the courts for a cause—every serve helps fund literacy programs for Bay Area students.
Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Location: BayClub in Ross Valley, Marin
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, this fundraiser is a great way to give back while having fun.
Gather your friends, enjoy friendly competition, and help children build a brighter future through reading!
Building Confidence—On and Off the Court
Like in pickleball, reading success is built on practice, encouragement, and support. Volunteers like Janice see firsthand how small efforts lead to big breakthroughs for young learners.
“I am energized by my time with the kids and grateful for the care taken to make this a positive experience for all,” Janice shared.
Get Involved—Volunteer or Play!
Janice’s story is just one example of the profound impact ECBA volunteers make on local students. Whether you want to tutor, donate, or play in our Pickleball Fundraiser, your support makes a difference.
Together, let’s serve up success for young readers!