About Us
The Step Forward started as a simple idea: bring friends, family, and neighbors together for a fun day of pickleball, and use that energy to help give back to our community. What began as one small charity tournament has grown into a movement rooted in connection, compassion, and play.
We believe that when people come together on the court, they can create real change off the court. Every game, every rally, and every laugh shared helps support those in our community who need it most, while also fostering a physically active young community.
Our Core Values
01
Activating the Community
We believe that an active community is a great one. Individuals being active and present in their community helps uplift Newburgh as a whole. We also believe in the importance of individuals staying physically active, as Newburgh itself has a staggering obesity rate among adolescents.
03
Inspiring the Youth
Our aim is not only that we are the largest in this space, but that we are far from the last. Since starting this organization in Newburgh Free Academy, we know how important it is for younger people to be able to get out and positively experience their community. We aim to help influence the youth and let them know that they can do great and fun things too, without the issue of funds.
02
Compassion in Action
Giving back is at the heart of what we do. Our organization started as a way to give back to the community that helped raise us, whether through the over $1,500 we have donated to local grassroots organization: The Newburgh Ministry, or to any of our future charities.
04
Staying Local
Since our May 2025 event, where we had 10+ local vendors, and causes come out to table and represent at our event, we aim to not only uplift the individuals of Newburgh, but the local businesses as well. We think that supporting those who are nearest to home and share like-minded goals are some of our greatest friends and allies. We hope to partner with many local businesses and organizations in the future.