The 6th Annual United Way Dodgeball Fundraiser was held at the Scholl Student Center at Marquette Catholic High School in Michigan City. Organizations, fans and dodgeball fanatics young and old came out to support their team, cheer on their organization and raise money for a good cause.
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16 teams were present at the event, representing various organizations across La Porte County all of which were playing for the opportunity to raise money for the United Way of La Porte County, which help to support the over 25 La Porte United Way centers along with other organizations including Michiana Resources and the MCPD Explorers.
WIMS 1420 AM DJ Ric Federighi was on hand to guide the event and provide colorful commentary during the many intense matches that took place. He also was able to keep the crowd engaged throughout the entire match, giving even younger attendees the chance to throw some dodgeballs around and have fun during the half time period.
Managing Editor at the News Dispatch and one of the event's key organizers of the event, Adam Parkhouse has been a part of the fundraiser since the beginning and continues to enjoy the level of community and competitiveness each year brings.
“The one thing that I've always noticed each year was the level of competitiveness among all the teams. They're all in it to win it and if that level of intensity wasn't there, the event just wouldn't be the same,” says Parkhouse. “We've always been a supporter of the United Way and this event is by far the best mix of competitiveness and fun times for a good cause.”
Dave Sisk, Director of Corporate Engagement at the United Way of La Porte County credits this event as a stand out charity event that offers a unique and fun experience few other fundraisers can offer.
“We do a lot of events like dinners and music events. This is a healthy event for us and gives access to non-administrative people to have a great time, have fun and walk away a winner,” says Sisk. Whether you win or lose, everyone walks away with something positive and a smile on their face.”
NIPSCO Director of Communications Nick Meyer also credits the event as something that his teammates look forward to every year.
“It just gets more fun every year. We love to see the companies rally behind a good cause, get together and have fun,” says Meyer. “It's a combination of supporting the United Way and having such a strong sense of employee engagement that makes this event so fun for everyone.”
Thor Thordarson, President and CEO of IU La Porte Health was part of a team that won the first dodgeball fundraiser and credits the accessibility and fun nature of the sport as a magnet for teams to return each year.
“I really love seeing people in such a friendly setting. It's really fun and different from both other fundraisers and team sports out there. Out of all the sports, everyone can play it, we all played it during school and that's where the appeal lies. We're all even and having fun.”
The final victory after long, hard fought battles went to Blue Chip Casino's Team, who's final victory earned each individual team member a trophy along with a large traveling trophy. However, all participants walked away happy, tired and satisfied knowing that the cherished gym time sport from childhood could now be used to help organizations in need. A victory for all involved and a strong incentive for teams to return and do it all over again next year.