A Lifelong Commitment to Giving Back
Giving back to the community has always been more than a value—it’s a way of life for Jack and Robin Salzman, the founders of The Serve Pickleball + Kitchen. With deep roots in philanthropy, the Salzmans have spent years prioritizing people, causes, and organizations that make a difference. Their passion for service is not only a guiding principle in their personal lives, but also the foundation on which The Serve was built.
Philanthropy at the Heart
Robin Salzman is the founder of the Giving with Grace Foundation, a North Carolina-based 501(c)(3) dedicated to strengthening the community by supporting local nonprofits through acts of kindness and compassion.
Since launching its annual Gifting Luncheon in 2023, the Foundation has awarded $250,000 in grants each year to ten local nonprofits. In 2024, it also donated two specialized animal transport vehicles to support animal welfare organizations.
Beyond grants, Giving with Grace invests in lasting community initiatives, including the Giving with Grace Spay and Neuter Clinic at Lake Norman Humane in Mooresville. The clinic provides low-cost surgeries and affordable vaccinations, with an expected 2,800 procedures in its first year, expanding access to veterinary care and improving animal welfare.
Organizations We Support
The Serve is proud to sponsor and support a growing list of local organizations, including:
- Bridge of Hearts
- Town of Cornelius
- The Rotary Club of North Mecklenburg
- Huntersville United Methodist Church
- The Rotary Club of Lake Norman
- Angels and Sparrows Community Table
- Lake Norman Chamber Foundation
- Ada Jenkins Center
- Lake Norman Woman of the Year Gala
Extending Service Through The Serve
Through The Serve, the Salzmans are continuing this tradition of giving in meaningful and creative ways. They view the venue as more than a place for pickleball, dining, and social gatherings—it’s also a hub for connection, collaboration, and support.
One of the most impactful gestures they’ve introduced is making The Serve’s private event space available at a discounted rate for local non-profit organizations. This allows 501(c)(3) charities to host meetings, fundraisers, and small gatherings in a welcoming environment with reduced costs.
Our Community Tournaments & Dedicated Sponsors
The Serve Pickleball + Kitchen regularly hosts tournaments to raise funds for local non-profit organizations. These events are only possible thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and the support of our team and community. Together, we’ve helped create meaningful impact for organizations across the area. Below is a look at our past tournaments and the difference they’ve made.
Words From Our Community
You are amazing! Thank you so much for your generous donation and the additional [donation] made through the event!
– Katie Stankiewicz, Soul to Sole Connections
We are so grateful for your partnership this season. Our team had an amazing summer swim session and we truly enjoyed proudly promoting The Serve! The gift cards for heat winners were also a tremendous hit and dispersed widely as opposing teams excitedly took home their share of race wins.
– Elisa, Skybrook Storm Swim Team
The girls were a joy, the seniors loved it!! Rosa our full-time volunteer invited them back when they get back in town. The food was delicious.
– Manny Rosado, Neighborhood Care Center
I am a local Cornelius resident and I have really enjoyed having the opportunity to play pickleball at The Serve. You all do a phenomenal job with your service/staff and provide a great experience to play pickleball as well as great food/drinks as a part of your restaurant. I often tell people how good the coffee bar is and look forward to it with my morning open play package! Thanks again for your support for the boys!
– Justin McCarthy, Athletes Lab 12U National Championship
Building a Stronger Community Together
At The Serve, every game played and every meal shared is part of something bigger. When you make a reservation with us—whether it’s to play pickleball, enjoy a meal, or host an event—you’re also supporting the many local organizations we stand behind. Be part of a community that plays with purpose and gives back with heart.
