The US Open is in full swing (pun intended) and we’re getting tennis fever. We were wondering how we could help others through tennis, so we sat down with DoSomething Grant Winner Jess Sporte and asked her to explain how she used her love of tennis to help athletes with disabilities.

Who do you want to win the US open?

One of my best friends, MacKenzie Soldan is in the wheelchair section of the US Open. It would be pretty cool if she won a couple of matches.

How did you get started playing tennis?

Through the organization that I later volunteered with. Every single summer kids 7 to 18 with physical mobility disabilities go to camp at The Grand Rapids Wheelchair Sports Association. I started at the camp when I was 10. They have all different types of sports - swimming, weighlifting, basketball, football, and cycling. I went every single year. I started off on the basketball team, and I got more into tennis every year. By the time I was 15 I started going to the adult practices.

What got you involved in your project?

I'm going into recreation therapy at school. We help people get back into their social lives after anything happens - a disabling conditions, an accident, or just getting older.

How does someone help out with us?

We're always looking for volunteers.

What can you do?

Connect and volunteer with wheelchair tennis through the national association.

Have a better idea? Tell us!