Sportsman’s Holiday Court Coordinator Wendy Smith is resigning and seeking a successor.
“The last five years, I have had the honor of being the coordinator for the Sweet Home Sportsman’s Holiday Court,” Smith said. “Thank you to each business and individual for giving back and investing in the lives of these young ladies. I’m so grateful to live in Sweet Home and be a part of a community that supports the history and tradition of Sportsman’s Holiday.
“One of my joys in life is the love that God has given me for young people over the years, working with children as a ballet and tap teacher for 25 years, Bible School and Sunday School teacher and leader as well as working with the youth groups at church and schools in the area. Growing up in Sweet Home, I was encouraged to be involved in my school, church and community, so it is a joy to work with young ladies as they complete high school and look toward the future.”
Running the court takes a team, Smith said, but it also takes time and commitment.
“If you have a passion for investing in the lives of young ladies, volunteerism, community and tradition, please contact me,” Smith said.
Smith was recruited by Wendy Younger, who had coordinated the court for a couple of years, Smith said. She resigned with the addition of a baby to her household.
“She’s been a great source of information,” Smith said, and she provided guidelines to help Smith adapt to her new role.
Three years ago, the Chamber of Commerce advised the court to develop an advisory committee, Smith said.
That committee, which now includes Mike Hall, Ben Dahlenberg, Kristin Adams and Younger, has been key. All of them, including Smith, have grown up in Sweet Home and have raised or are raising families in the community.
“The success of this program in recent years comes from having a great team working toward the goals set with the Sportsman’s Holiday mission statement,” Smith said.
“The mission of the Sportsman’s Holiday Court is to promote community outreach and volunteerism, to offer networking and mentoring opportunities and provide scholarships for higher education to outstanding young women in a program that perpetuates an appreciation for Sportsman’s Holiday history and tradition.”
Smith and the committee developed a workshop for Sweet Home girls two years ago, “investing in the young ladies in the community,” Smith said. It has drawn 15 to 20 girls and is a part of the court selection process.
Girls attend workshops and are introduced to various skills useful on the court as well as within their daily lives.
For more information or to get involved, contact Smith at (541) 974-0883.