Celebrating National Volunteer Month with NC Tennis

April is National Volunteer Month, a time to celebrate the incredible individuals who dedicate their time and energy to make a difference in our communities. Here at USTA North Carolina, we are proud to honor the countless volunteers who bring tennis to life across the state — growing the game, supporting players of all ages, and making tennis accessible for everyone.

One shining example of volunteerism in action is Bonnie Vandegrift of Asheville, who was recently honored with the 2025 Barbara Williams Service Award! Read more about Bonnie’s outstanding contributions to tennis here: Bonnie Vandegrift Honored with 2025 Barbara Williams Service Award.

Bonnie Vandegrift poses with her trophy for the Barbara Williams Service Award. Photo by Fred Mullane/USTA.

Volunteer Opportunities in North Carolina

Interested in giving back to the tennis community? Whether you're a player, a coach, a parent, or simply a fan of the sport, there are countless ways to get involved in North Carolina — not just in April, but all year long!

USTA North Carolina has many volunteers that serve throughout our state. We have over 20 USTA NC Committees that serve two-year terms. Volunteer commitments begin January 1 of the even year and end December 31 of the odd year (i.e. the upcoming term runs January 2026 through December 2027). Be on the lookout for opportunities to express interest in joining a committee!

Here are a few tennis organizations and events looking for volunteers:

• Abilities Tennis of North Carolina

• Wheel Serve NC

• Asheville Tennis Association

• Raleigh Tennis Association

• Western Wake Tennis Association

• Greater Wilmington Tennis Association

• Charlotte Tennis Association

• ENO Community Tennis Association

• Lake Norman Tennis Association

• Winston-Salem Open – Volunteer for a Professional Tournament!

• United Tennis Organization

• Durham Parks & Recreation Tennis Academy

• Wake Forest Parks and Recreation Tennis

• ACEing Autism – Tennis for Individuals with Autism

• 15-Love – Youth Tennis and Education Programs

• Special Olympics – Mecklenburg County Tennis and Special Olympics National Volunteer Page

Lake Norman Tennis Association volunteers during the 2024 NC 18 & Over League State Championship.

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering is more than just giving your time — it's about being part of a movement that changes lives through sport. When you volunteer in tennis, you:

• Inspire a love of the game in new players

• Help build stronger, healthier communities

• Support diversity and inclusion in sports

• Create lifelong friendships and memories

• Gain valuable skills and leadership experience

  
  

No matter your background or how much time you can give, your contribution matters.

This National Volunteer Month — and every month — we say THANK YOU to the volunteers who make tennis thrive in North Carolina!

Interested in learning more about volunteering with NC Tennis? Learn more HERE — we'd love to help you get started!