United Way golf tourney has banner year
The United Way of Greater Texarkana hit a hole in one with their Charity Golf Tournament Tuesday, raising the most money from sponsors in the event’s history, and doing so during a time of need.
In its 22nd year, the Charity Golf Tournament hosted by the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors raised approximately $20,000 to benefit UWGT, about 20% more than their usual output and $2,000 more than their previous high, which was approximately $18,000.
“The community stepped up,” said David Mims, co-chair of the event. “This is United Way’s only event they’re probably going to have this year, so we were hoping this would happen, and it did. We’re very happy with that.
“Being able to even hold this event is huge. It couldn’t have turned out better. It’s a beautiful day, and the participation has been great.”
UWGT President and CEO Mark Bledsoe called it a banner year for the event, as they had more teams and high-level sponsors than ever. To make matters better, the United Steelworkers 752L also came out to cook, reducing costs.
It was held at the Texarkana Golf Ranch on the banks of Bringle Lake across from Texas A&M University-Texarkana.
United Way is one of the many nonprofits locally and nationwide that has been hurt by the pandemic. With many canceled events, the money from this fundraiser was critical.
“We are so thankful to be able to have this event, you just don’t know,” Bledsoe said. “We’re about $100,000 down on fundraisers right now, so we are certainly blessed to have such an incredible turnout.”
Bledsoe said proceeds from this event go toward United Way programs built to improve the health, education, finances and work for the common good in Texarkana. These include programs that address long-term educational needs, food insecurities and abused children locally, among others.
“All those programs that are out there didn’t stop just because COVID hit,” he said. “We’ve still got to support our partners and do what we can for the community.”