Back in 2019, a few members of The Rotary Club of Richmond were brainstorming ways our club could better serve the local community.  As a number of Rotary members play Table Tennis to stay in shape, they came up with the idea to donate Outdoor Table Tennis Tables to Richmond's public parks. To raise the money, we would host a charity table tennis tournament, and the funds would go directly to the city to purchase outdoor tables. 

 

The club then approached the City of Richmond and offered to pay for the tables through a fundraiser, and the city would installed them at their own expense. Each table costs approximately $4000 - $5000.  Our first table tennis tournament for seniors in 2019 was a resounding success.  Through club members’ own donations and sponsors from businesses, we had enough funds to start the project. 

 

This year, all funds raised through the tournament, in addition to a government grant, we presented a cheque of $25,000 to the City of Richmond to purchase 6 outdoor table tennis tables to be installed in 3 Public City Parks.

 

 

Richmond Rotary decided to promote outdoor Table Tennis as it fosters a healthy and active lifestyle. There is now a strong emphasis on physical activity, healthy eating, mental wellness and social connectedness within and among neighborhoods and communities, as well as equitable access to amenities, services and programs. As such, outdoor table tennis tables are a perfect fit to promote these values.

 

Our charity tournament had a great turnout. 

 

 

There were matches all day, with teams divided up into competitive and non-competitive. Mayor Malcolm Brodie joined us to introduce the event after we presented a cheque for $25,000!

 

 

And he even played a game of table tennis against Richmond Rotary member, Bill Lau!