Bass tournament benefit for United Way a ‘success’

The United Way of Greater Texarkana’s second annual Cooper Tire Big Bass Tournament was a huge success, according to organizers.

More than $11,300 was raised for the United Way’s 2017 fundraising campaign, and attendance for the event nearly doubled when compared to last year’s turnout.

“A lot of people decided to do it again this year because they had so much fun last year,” said Mark Bledsoe, president/ CEO of the United Way. “I think people like helping their neighbors. When they know what the United Way does, they feel like they’re helping out their neighbors in the community that need a hand up.”

Organizers were grateful for the community’s support.

“I’d like to thank all of those that made the second annual Cooper Tire Big Bass Tourney … such a huge success,” said Christine Linder, tournament director. “We’re very pleased with the end result and everyone I talked to said they’re looking forward to it again next year.”

The recent National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisers Golf Tournament benefiting the United Way was also a success, raking in more than $15,000 for the organization.

Both events outperformed last year’s results, increasing revenue by $6,000 in total.

In addition to bringing in dollars for agencies, events such as the fishing and golf tournaments help get the word out about the United Way, which supports programs in the community that help people.

“It does expose your name to a different audience,” Bledsoe said. “They’re hearing about what the United Way does and it certainly helps. That money will go to 30-plus programs within the region.”