Over the past 9 months of this "Covid" outbreak, our world has been affected in so many different ways. In my observation, the top three areas impacted the most, has been 1. the mindset of people, 2. the economy and 3. the virus itself.

In sports and life, 90% of the game is your mindset how do we respond in adversity. 2020 has brought a significant amount of fear, depression, hopelessness, anxiety and panic to the mindset of people throughout our world. As a result, too many people have committed suicide as their only way out of the pain, which has devastated so many families and loved ones that are left behind.  I personally have lost an Uncle, friends, former classmates, students and recently heard about an 12yr old girl who took her life and my heart broke over this tragedy.

In April, I did an internet search which lead me to Firefly Outreach, and talked over an hour with the founder of Firefly, Patti Herrington. Her son at 16 took his life and through the grief, pain and healing in her life, God lead her to start this outreach. She now speaks to schools, churches and conferences around the country.  I loved the name of this outreach, as it reminded me of catching fire flies with my sister as kids. Through our conversation, the idea came for a Glow in the Dark Volleyball Tournament and to sponsor Firefly Outreach allowing Patti to share her story of HOPE and HEALING before each division plays on November 13th & 14th.  There's HOPE for our hurting world, His Name is Jesus. Psalm 147:3

We chose to do this tournament right before the holidays as this can be one of the most difficult seasons for people who may have lost loved ones.  If you know anyone, that is contemplating suicide, feeling hopelessness, harming themselves, please reach out to Firefly, PVA, Parents, Pastor or an authority for help. Everyone's life has value and purpose, we are here to help.  Thank you for joining us and we look forward to this fun event and may we glow in this dark world.           Maria Hardwick (PVA Director)