Asheville – The upcoming “Stars Servin’ Up Love” charity tennis event is set to be a game-changer for Western North Carolina, but not without its share of challenges. As the City of Asheville partners with Explore Asheville to host this star-studded affair, questions arise about the logistics, community engagement, and the impact on local nonprofits.
A Unique Collaboration for a Worthy Cause
The genesis of this event can be traced back to Jim Curley, a former tournament director for the US Open, who relocated to Asheville after his retirement. Curley, recognizing the city’s potential for hosting a celebrity tennis exhibition, reached out to the Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville. “He knew that we had some ties with tennis,” said Chris Corl, a representative from the City of Asheville. “We’ve hosted some Fed Cup and Billie Jean King Cup events over the years, so it made sense to explore this opportunity.”
Curley’s connections quickly bore fruit. Within a week, he confirmed the participation of tennis legends like Andre Agassi and Andy Roddick. “Once we had those big names on board, we started reaching out to current players and celebrities,” Corl explained. The collaboration with Explore Asheville came next, as they stepped in as the presenting sponsor to assist with marketing and event flow.
Supporting Local Nonprofits
One of the most compelling aspects of “Stars Servin’ Up Love” is its commitment to supporting local nonprofits. The event will donate 100 percent of net proceeds to organizations such as the Always Asheville Fund, Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity, and the Asheville Tennis Association. “We wanted to ensure that the funds raised would have a meaningful impact,” Corl said.
The selection process for these nonprofits was deliberate. The Asheville Tennis Association was chosen for its direct connection to the event and its mission to support local tennis facilities that suffered damage from recent storms. The Always Asheville Fund focuses on helping independent businesses and artists recover from economic hardships, while Habitat for Humanity addresses the pressing need for affordable housing in the community. “We wanted to make sure we were supporting organizations that could quickly mobilize resources back into the community,” Corl added.
Engaging the Community
Asheville’s community engagement is a focal point of this event. Plans are underway for a silent auction that will provide additional funding for the selected charities. “We’re also looking to incorporate local artists and first responders into the event,” Corl mentioned. This approach not only highlights local talent but also fosters a sense of community involvement.
Local artists will create unique gifts for participating celebrities, ensuring that they leave with a tangible memory of their time in Asheville. Additionally, vendors will be invited to showcase their products during the event, providing them with an opportunity to reach thousands of attendees.
Addressing Challenges Head-On
While excitement builds around the event, challenges remain. The aftermath of recent storms has left many in the community struggling. Corl emphasized the importance of timing: “We targeted this weekend specifically because it’s an empty weekend in January when we need business.” The hope is that this event will not only raise funds but also stimulate local businesses during a typically slow period.
The collaboration between the City of Asheville and Explore Asheville is not without its complexities. Corl clarified that while Explore Asheville is a key sponsor and is not typically an event producer, but amplifies the event to a broader audience. “They’re helping with marketing and content direction, but we’re handling the logistics,” he said.
Looking Ahead
As “Stars Servin’ Up Love” approaches, anticipation continues to grow. With a lineup featuring tennis greats like Jessica Pegula and Emma Navarro alongside celebrity guests such as Jeff Probst and Pete Wentz, the event promises to be both entertaining and impactful.
Corl expressed optimism about the event’s potential influence on local charities: “We’re helping lift these organizations up and expand what they’re doing.” The goal is clear: to create a memorable experience that benefits both attendees and the wider community.
Asheville is gearing up for an unforgettable day of tennis, laughter, and philanthropy on February 2, 2025. For those interested in attending or supporting this worthy cause, tickets are available at StarsServinUpLove.com.
In a time when community support is more crucial than ever, “Stars Servin’ Up Love” stands as a testament to what can be achieved when local organizations come together for a common purpose.