STORIES OF STRENGTH

My name is Valerie Rose, and I'm a sixteen-year-old from Florida. I've made my mark on the world not just through my powerful forehand on the tennis court, but through my determination to make a difference. I rose quickly to become a top-ranked junior national tennis player, but my dreams were suddenly derailed by multiple bone fractures and misdiagnoses. Instead of letting these challenges define me, I chose to rise above them. That's how Serve for Strength was born—a charity Pickleball Tournament at Saddlebrook Resort, with all proceeds going to help children who need life-changing bone surgeries. The titanium pins in my body are symbols of my strength and resilience. I like to think of myself as Supergirl, knowing that with every step I take, I'm defying the odds. Together, we can make the world a better place, one serve at a time.

After returning from service, I struggled to find my purpose. Serve for Strength gave me a community that understands the power of service and helped me channel my strength into helping others rebuild their lives.

The support I received through this community was life-changing. Now I use my story and strength to help others find their path to healing. Together, we are stronger than we ever were alone.

Serve for Strength showed me that my athletic background could be used for something greater. Now I lead community rebuilding projects, turning physical strength into lasting community impact.