Local Dodgeball Fundraiser Returns, Renovation Funds for School Library and Arts Programs

On December 9 organizers of the Strike for Success tournament revealed that the third annual event will move forward as a community fundraiser for Woodard Junior High. Pilkington Construction provided an early boost with a $5,000 donation, and organizers called for community sponsorships and team registrations to meet fundraising goals. The contest is scheduled for January 10 at the Woodard Junior High gym.

The tournament is designed to benefit school programs that often face budget pressures, with proceeds earmarked for the band and dance teams and for remodeling a library that has been unusable for several years. Restoring the library will create a vital learning space for students, and support for arts programs can expand opportunities for physical activity, social connection and emotional well being among young people in Yuma County.

Community fundraising events like this fill gaps left by tight school budgets, and they carry implications for public health and equity. Extracurricular programs provide structured physical exercise and social support that contribute to healthier outcomes for children, and accessible school facilities such as libraries are important for literacy and academic success. Relying on ad hoc fundraising can deepen disparities between schools in well resourced neighborhoods and those with fewer local donors, a challenge for policymakers who balance limited education funding with community needs.

Organizers detailed sponsorship levels and invited teams and donors to participate, positioning the tournament as both a fundraiser and a community building event. For local residents, the event offers a chance to support students directly and to push for long term investments in school infrastructure and programming that promote equity and healthy development.

As the January 10 event approaches, organizers will continue to seek participants and sponsors to ensure that funds flow to Woodard Junior High students who will use the renovated library and expanded arts programming.