A fundraising campaign for wounded American soldiers and their families that began two years ago at one golf course in suburban Mendota Heights, Minn., has grown to at least 110 courses in 33 states.
On Sept. 7, Mendakota Country Club (CC) and other golf facilities will host Tee It Up for the Troops tournaments, while more than 100 others will raise donations in other ways for the campaign. The goal since 2005 has been to make the Friday prior to Sept. 11 a National Day of Golf in support of all who serve. Any golfer and any course can participate.
"We have asked golfers to contribute 10 percent above their green fees," said "J.B." Ball of Savage, who started Tee It Up for the Troops at Mendakota CC. Our motto is, 'One day, 10 percent, change a life.'"
In its first year, Mendakota CC and Tee It Up for the Troops raised $80,000, which was dispersed in the form of 26 scholarships around the country to the fallen and disabled, and their immediate families.
This year, Ball anticipates generating more than $1 million, with proceeds divided between the Wounded Warrior Project, which assists the wounded on their steps to recovery; Fisher House, which provides housing for the families of hospitalized soldiers; and some of the approximate 250 America Supports You organizations.
"We already have commitments in excess of $500,000," said Ball, whose son Tyler fought in the Army in Iraq. When he asked his son what he needed, Tyler responded, "I’m fine. Do something for the soldiers and their families back home."
"We’ll do over $140,000 here locally. Two courses in California will both make $100,000 or more. On Oct. 12 there is a huge event at Lake of the Ozarks – Four Seasons Resort, where owner Peter Brown will have all three courses running events. It is a simple way for all of us to say ‘Thank you’ to those who serve. Make a tee time, golf, donate," Ball said.
Bridgestone Golf has donated more than 25,000 golf balls for the golf events in the first two years, Ball said. The company has also contributed golf clubs which have been sent to Iraq and Afghanistan, where the Army has set up driving ranges for the troops to relax from the danger and tension of the war.
The National Day of Golf will be on Sept. 5 in 2008 and Sept. 11 in 2009. To locate a 2007 event, click here.
