Swinging Success: Grace Place Golf Tournament Raises Over $490,000
Grace Place for Children and Families is thrilled to announce the success of its annual golf tournament, A Swing of Grace, held at Bonita Bay Golf Club on May 7, 2024. With the generous support of sponsors, participants, and donors, the event surpassed all expectations, raising over $490,000 to benefit the vital programs and services offered by Grace Place.
The tournament brought together golf enthusiasts and philanthropists alike, all rallying behind the cause of supporting children and families in the Golden Gate community. Participants competed for fun prizes in Grace Place’s first ever Putt and Pour challenge, bid on exciting auction items, and met several 2024 high school graduates who were awarded full ride college scholarships. During dinner, guests listened intently to the keynote speaker and Grace Place student mom, Adelaida. With grace and pride, she shared her family’s journey, recounting the challenges of learning English and the profound difference the Bright Beginnings program has made in her children’s lives. Adelaida’s heartfelt speech earned a standing ovation, highlighting the transformative influence of Grace Place and sparking incredible generosity during the Fund a Need paddle raise.
“We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming generosity demonstrated by everyone involved in this year’s golf tournament,” said Stacey Vaughn, Chief Development Officer at Grace Place for Children and Families. “The funds raised will ensure that Grace Place can continue to provide educational opportunities and support to children and families facing adversity.”
The success of the event would not have been possible without the unwavering support of sponsors, including The McGrath Foundation, Tony & Moira Lardakis, Fifth Third Bank, First Horizon, Pat & Jim Bosscher, Nancy & Russell Peterson, Brian & Heidi Miller, and more. The event was overseen by an exceptional committee chaired by Nita Rapp and Cesar Taveras, with Cesar also delivering an outstanding performance as the evening’s emcee.
Proceeds from the tournament will directly benefit Grace Place’s wide range of programs, including Early Childhood Education, Family Literacy, After School programs, and Adult Education aimed at empowering children and families to build bright futures.
“We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from our community,” said Lära Fisher, Chief Executive Officer of Grace Place for Children and Families. “Together, we are making a meaningful difference in the lives of many.”