About Smashing Barriers:

Founded in 2023, Smashing Barriers Organization (SBO) is a 501c3 registered nonprofit organization that promotes tennis-related events for players of all ages and abilities in Portland, OR. Our mission is to change and advance the lives of young people through tennis. We provide funds for various tennis programs and focus on the elementary school population, many of whom might not otherwise have access to learn the game of tennis.

Tennis is one of the few sports that can be played for a lifetime and is one of the healthiest activities, both physically and mentally.

Tennis and tennis programs help youth:

• burn calories, build muscle, improve heart health, and increase bone strength.
• build independence, self-esteem and tactical thinking.
• develop skills to manage pressure and adversity.
• learn teamwork, discipline, sportsmanship and responsibility.
• improve brain functions in ways that aid memory, learning, creativity and behavior.

Tennis Instruction:

• Group tennis lessons for elementary school students. Group sessions provide a fun atmosphere for the kids. We offer after school, weekend and Round Robin sessions.

Tennis tournaments and Events:

• Organize several UTR tennis tournaments per year providing all age groups and skill levels opportunities to compete throughout the year. 

Scholarships:

• Goal is to award two $400 college scholarships to local HS students who have excelled on and off the court.

Supplying Equipment:

• Equipment sourcing and redistribution of new and gently used tennis equipment.

Reasons to Volunteer:

Our volunteer Board and small volunteer staff can only accomplish so much. Do you like working with children? Do you like teaching tennis? Come join us and volunteer your time teaching kids how to play tennis.  We provide community hours to high school and college students. 

You can make a huge difference in the local Portland community by volunteering your time and expertise with SBO.  As a SBO volunteer you’ll also have the opportunity to meet other energetic, like-minded tennis players.

If you are interested in helping out, please fill out our volunteer form.

Your tax-deductible contribution helps us achieve our goals and complete our projects. Please consider donating to our cause. Thank you in advance for believing in what we are doing to help children play their way to a better life.