Case Study:
The Blackburn Pickleball Pavilion
The Blackburn Pickleball Pavilion is a state-of-the-art, 10-court covered pickleball facility located at Skagit College. Built through a unique collaboration of public and private funding, the Pavilion has quickly become a model for how recreational infrastructure can strengthen community engagement, boost local economies, and provide sustainable benefits for years to come.
Community Impact
-
Accessible, Year-Round Recreation
Affordable access for all ages and abilities. Covered, lighted courts ensure play in any weather—rain or shine, day or night. -
Support for Higher Education & Athletics
Tournament revenue provides a sustainable funding stream for Skagit College athletic programs. -
Regional Destination & Economic Driver
Attracts players from across the Puget Sound region. Consistently draws 100–200 daily players, generating steady business for local restaurants, shops, and hotels. -
Strengthening Community Connections
Catalyst for the growth of the Skagit Valley Pickleball Club, a nonprofit now serving almost 1,000 members through instruction, clinics, social events, and competitive play.
Blackburn Pickleball Pavilion in the News
Testimonial from Claude Blackburn, lead Donor Blackburn Pickleball Pavilion
Since 2005, I have been a dedicated philanthropist, donating over 60% of my adjusted gross income to numerous 501c3 organizations. I am proud to have been the lead donor for the Blackburn Pickleball Pavilion at Skagit Valley College, and a significant contributor for courts at Whatcom Community College and at Bender Park in Lynden.
My pickleball philanthropy brings me the greatest joy. There is nothing more rewarding than witnessing the happiness pickleball brings to people on the courts as they compete, laugh, and socialize together as a community.
Players often share how pickleball and the covered pickleball pavilion in particular have positively impacted them; some have even told me how the pavilion has saved their lives. Seniors as well as young people move their bodies and use their minds; they get off their phones and exercise outdoors. A covered pickleball facility on Camano Island is a win for everyone, even the environment, as it will minimize players driving to Mount Vernon or Everett for covered play, reducing overall fuel consumption.
-Claude Blackburn, Pickleball Philanthropist
Key Outcomes
-
100–200 players daily
-
Almost 1,000 active club members
-
Increased revenue for local businesses
-
Sustainable support for Skagit College athletics
Section Title
This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors.
List Title
This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors.
List Title
This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors.
List Title
This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors.
List Title
This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content and make sure to add any relevant details or information that you want to share with your visitors.