The first annual Pickleball Half Marathon happened on Saturday, March 29, 2025. Over 200 people joined the fun keeping pickleballs in play for 13.1 hours.

We’re raising funds for College Essay App, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to leveling the playing field for college-bound students. We're building an app that provides personalized writing support to help students craft standout college essays, opening doors to higher education opportunities.

$75,000 Funds the Pilot

Too many students struggle to get the writing support they need and deserve because personalized instruction is expensive and out of reach. College Essay App became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to change that.

We’re building a platform that gives students meaningful, personalized writing instruction–for free.

Now that we have a beta version of the app, we’re ready for the next big step: a rigorous, real-world pilot with local high school students. We’ll test, refine, and improve the platform based on their feedback.

The price tag to do that? $75,000.

College Essay App isn’t just about college admissions essays. It’s about giving students the skills to be stronger, more confident writers for life. Writing opens doors, and with your help, we’re making sure every student gets the chance to turn their key.

Learn more at www.CollegeEssayApp.com.

Thank you for your support!
Melanie Obitz-Bukartek, Founder of College Essay App

Pickleball Half Marathon: 13.1 Hours of Play for a Purpose

In Support of College Essay App, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit