In an effort to foster connectivity and camaraderie between Scottsdale fire fighters and police officers while raising money for mental health training and resources, the Arizona First Responders Foundation recently hosted their inaugural Red and Blue Charity Pickleball Showdown at the newly opened venue, The Picklr.

The Arizona First Responders Foundation’s mission to promote well-being through activity, awareness and action was put into motion through the 32-team (16 police and 16 fire) round-robin tournament with all skill levels represented. Building upon successful Paddle Battle Pickleball tournaments to benefit Scottsdale Fire Department, AZFRF is extended their hand to their brethren in blue to raise funding for and to create stronger connection to Scottsdale Police Department.

Founded by recently retired Scottsdale firefighter Adam Shuckhart, the Arizona First Responders Foundation aims to educate, raise funds and provide resources related to the mental health of first responders. On average, first responders witness traumatic experiences 100 times more than civilians, but without proper training or resources to process these experiences can have a negative effect on their long-term mental health.