The Carrie Tingley Hospital Foundation has come up with the perfect activity for people who want to give back and have fun doing it. The foundation has been helping special needs children since 1963, by helping the children and their families with various funding and resources.

So you like volleyball? In June, the foundation will put on their 15th annual Mudd Volleyball tournament for over 12,000 people.

Here’s how it works. If you and mud do not get along, you can still participate by becoming a sponsor. Otherwise, get your team together. Many people play with their co-workers but a group of friends can also do the trick. The teams can be co-ed of 12 people. All players must be 18 years and above to play the game.

It’s okay if you are not very good at volleyball, most of the players aren’t and just remember that it’s for the kids. Once you have your team together, start the planning. Register your team and get creative with the name. Once registered, you can plan a creative tent for your team that can be set up at the volleyball site.

Although you are having fun, there are rules that need to be followed like, no pets or coolers with alcohol.

If you’re the type of person who likes the mud but would like it gone as quickly as it was put on, a mass amount of showers are offered at the site so you can rinse off and enjoy the rest of the day. Don’t expect it to be a short day because most teams play five games.

Teams can also win prizes for their creativity and other incentives include food vendors and beverages.

If you really don’t want to participate in getting dirty, there is one other option. Become a referee by volunteering your time at the event. You only have to be 14 years old and you can see all the action up close.

There are so many events for the summer that keep you active while contributing to great foundations. Find the Mudd volleyball in your community. Maybe it will bring back childhood memories of playing in the mud.

-Tanya Lopez