Pickle with Heart

Pickle with Heart
A Heartfelt Approach To Teaching Youth Pickleball
Pickle with Heart is devoted to empowering youth, particularly at-risk and underserved, to develop confidence, teamwork, athleticism, and essential life skills through the fastest-growing sport in America.

Meet Pickle with Heart, Inc.
Terri MacLeod is the founder of Pickle with Heart. As a pickleball enthusiast and a certified pickleball coach, she envisioned bringing the sport to youth in underserved communities.  Terri recognized pickleball's inclusive community and knew it could foster personal growth on and off the court. In June 2025, she began teaching pickleball to  at-risk youth in Belle Glade.  The youth, many of whom  had never picked up a racquet,  loved the sport and Terri wanted to spread this passion to others. Hence, the beginning of Pickle with Heart, Inc.  in August 2025. 
Prior to Pickle with Heart, Terri had an extensive career  in television in New York City.  For 16 years, she worked at NBC's Access Hollywood as Senior Producer/Reporter. She obtained her Masters in Social Work from Rutgers University in  June 2021.  A recent resident to Vero Beach, Terri is excited to combine her 2 favorite passions - pickleball and helping out the youth who need it most. 
Pickle with Heart', Inc. is  a 501c(3) nonprofit organization. 

Local Partnerships and Support
NEWS UPDATE (2/27/26): Pickle with Heart is honored to be  selected into the Agassi x JOOLA Let's Play! program. Andre Agassi and JOOLA are dedicated to supporting nonprofits which are expanding pickleball to youth in underserved communities. 


Our Mission: More Than Just a Game
Skill Development
Teaching pickleball fundamentals as a gateway to confidence, coordination, and healthy living for at-risk youth.
Life Skills
Integrating essential lessons in resilience, leadership, and community engagement that extend beyond the court.
Local Impact
Serving Florida's youth  with accessible free programs that inspire growth and create opportunities for underserved communities.
Engaging Youth
Our Programs: Pickleball Clinics and Life Skills Workshops
Pickleball Instruction
Open to all levels. Focus is on   technique, strategy, and sportsmanship in a supportive environment. The goal is healthy   competition. The sport is primarily taught via interactive on court games.  No boring ball feeding drills, here! 
Life Skills Development
Interactive workshops covering leadership, teamwork, goal-setting, and healthy habits that translate to success off the court.
Inclusive Community
Special emphasis on supporting youth with diverse backgrounds and abilities, ensuring everyone feels welcome and valued.
Serving up Inspiration
Game on: Pickle with Heart teaches local youth
Over 75 youth from Gifford Youth Achievement Center joined Pickle with Heart for an afternoon of pickleball. The youth got a taste of high energy pickleball from local pros. Then,  picked up their own paddles to learn the fundamentals. 

Youth Ready to Rally
The youth took over the courts and worked their way through 7 different stations for skill building competitive games.

Community Impact:
Building Confidence
Youth campers discover hidden talents and develop self-assurance through structured play and gradual skill building.
Strengthening Families
Family bonds grow stronger as children share their newfound skills and passion with parents and siblings.
How You Can Help: Get Involved and Support Our Mission
Volunteer
Share your time and skills as a coach, mentor, event supporter, or outreach coordinator. No pickleball experience necessary for many roles!


Support or attend community events like youth pickleball clinics and social fundraisers that raise awareness and resources for our mission.
Want to donate?
Funds go directly into the foundation's business account. 
Click here to donate
If you would like to find out how to donate athletic wear or pickleball  equipment contact Terri MacLeod at picklewithheart@gmail.com. 