By Amber Dean, LIVE UNITED Golf Tournament Chair
Last month we wrapped up the 11th Annual Live United Golf Tournament and had one of the most successful years in the tournament’s history! This tournament was the brainchild of Traci Robertson 11 years ago, and at that time she promised CEO Glenn Cochran that she would raise $50,000. He was skeptical but knew Traci’s tenacity. Not only did they meet her goal of $50,000, but they surpassed it! Now, 11 years later, we raised over $115,000 which puts the 11-year total at just under $1 MILLION!
None of this could be possible without the help and support of this community. Our Premier Sponsor, Aramark, has been a partner with us since day one. We are so appreciative of their unwavering support, not only of the golf tournament but also their employee campaign. Every September we fill up the tournament with over 50 teams made up of friends, new and old, of United Way. Being an avid golfer, I am able to play in many charity tournaments in Lubbock, and even though I am biased, I can say with 100% certainty that this is the best tournament in town and goes to a great cause!
If you have participated in this tournament through the years, either as a player or as a sponsor, pat yourself on the back. The money you have helped raise has gone to 23 incredible partner agencies that create positive and lasting changes throughout the South Plains. Our Premier Sponsor, Aramark, is able to provide 28 kids with a safe place to go after school for the entire year. Our $5,000 sponsors provide job training for 4 under-skilled adults. Our $2,500 sponsors provide a year of counseling services to a veteran dealing with PTSD. Our $1,500 sponsors provide 12 pairs of eyeglasses for low-income seniors, and our $500 sponsors provide books for 100 preschoolers. Look at how much impact one little ‘ol golf tournament can have in our community!
I know I speak for the entire golf committee when I say THANK YOU for your support of the Live United Golf Tournament! Here’s to many more years of fun for a great cause!