CHILLICOTHE – Paddles up, Chillicothe! The Green Hills Regional Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Council is bringing the community together for a day of pickleball and purpose. Their Pickleball Tournament Fundraiser will be held Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, at the Simpson Park pickleball courts. Competitive matches start at 8 a.m., with a fun division following at 11 a.m.
The tournament is designed for everyone — whether you’re a seasoned player ready to compete or someone who just wants to laugh, rally, and support a great cause. Participants can choose a competitive division, casual play, or even jump into both. With pickleball’s growing popularity, organizers expect a mix of serious players and first-timers out to enjoy the day.
But at the heart of the tournament is something much bigger than the game. All proceeds go directly toward supporting the Green Hills Regional CIT Council, a program that equips first responders with the skills to safely respond to individuals in the middle of a mental health crisis. Instead of defaulting to the criminal justice system, CIT emphasizes de-escalation, connecting people to treatment and services, and ultimately reducing injuries, deaths, and community tensions.
The trainings save lives and help first responders recognize what might be a criminal situation and what might be someone experiencing a mental health emergency. This is so these people who are in crisis receive care rather than handcuffs.
Funds raised will be used to host behavioral health and de-escalation trainings in the Green Hills region and to help local officers attend specialized trainings out of town. Those programs not only strengthen crisis response skills but also focus on personal wellness for first responders themselves.
The day will also include food and refreshments, opportunities for free-will donations, and plenty of community spirit. Families are encouraged to come cheer, and players of all ages are welcome to participate.
So, whether you’re playing for the trophy or just to be part of something meaningful, this is a chance to enjoy one of America’s fastest-growing sports while backing a mission that touches lives right here at home.
DETAILS
Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025
Location: Simpson Park Pickleball Courts, Chillicothe
Registration Deadline: Sept. 21, 2025
Register Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfbieIzq7TiC3lV59cm-gex4ObAEcaYQvel6DB4YU0J4TnqeQ/viewform
Competitive Division
Start: 8 a.m.
Cost: $30 per person / $60 per team
Format: Pool play to bracket play
Fun Division
Start: 11 a.m.
Cost: $10 per person / $20 per team
Format: Pool play
Additional Information
Open to all ages; players may enter multiple divisions
Food and refreshments available onsite.
All proceeds benefit Green Hills Regional CIT Council — find them at missouricit.org.
