Miracles for Kids held its fourth annual Golf Invitational fundraiser on Monday at Orange County’s Santa Ana Country Club. This was my first time covering the event, after having a great experience with Miracles for Kids.
In February, I did a Feel-Good Friday feature on the non-profit’s project manager Ruby Foster, so it was nice to see the organization at work. Founded in 2002, the charity supports children suffering from catastrophic and critical illnesses–and their families–with resources that include year-round financial assistance, wellness programs, housing, and providing of basic needs.
Baseball is the closest thing I’ve ever been to being a true sports fan. The only one I understand is baseball. Golf, on the other hand? The reason why people want to try and get small balls into small holes from great distances is still unknown. This is a popular sport used for fundraising. It’s a draw for the common man, as well as the well-to-do.
The wealthy are likely the most targeted group, since they travel in elite venues. Santa Ana Country Club is certainly one of these elite venues. While Santa Ana’s club is not Augusta National, it boasts a 73.4 USGA rating, which according to those in the know, is a challenge for semi- and professional golfers. You can see the greens with their pristine beauty, thanks to a $6.5million upgrade of the landscaping and pathways. Participants in the invitational were among the first to see the new remodel. I haven’t covered a non-political event in over seven years, but I recall that the high point of doing so was that I literally got to see how the other half lives, without having to pay for the privilege.
Ruby Foster was one the very first people I met when I arrived at course. Foster was happy to provide me with information about the day and the significance of hosting an invitational for fundraising.
Miracles for Kids raised more than $200,000. Miracles for Kids raised over $200,000. They hope to repeat that feat this year. With a lineup of sponsors like Perricone Farms, TRAFFIK, Fletcher Jones Motorcars, Tito’s Vodka, Marcus & Millichap, and a host of others, they no doubt exceeded it.
Autumn R. Streier, Co-Founder and CEO of the non-profit, is at its heart. Her radiant face and hostess was Autumn R. Streier, who posed for photographs with celebrities and golfers and ensured everyone got something to eat.
“it’s the community involvement that helps us put this together.”
Celebrities are always a great addition to any fundraising event. There were many celebrities at the event, from social media experts to music stars to reality TV and sports stars.
Gretchen Rossi and Slade Smiley The Real Housewives of Orange CountyThey were eager to play the 18-hole course. Smiley spoke from his personal experience sharing his story with his son who had a life-altering disease.
The event would not exist without its sponsors. Dan Markel from BURN180 explained why Miracles for Kids sponsorship is a privilege. He also spoke about the importance and unique products of his product.
Fundraisers are not only about pulling in money; they are about bringing together the community to not only increase awareness of the non-profit’s goals, but the difference that is made when the community is united around concerns that affect it. In the last several years we’ve seen many communities under threat, but also witnessed how community members work together to support and defend what is important.
Miracles for Kids is a foundation that supports children and their families. The Orange County community joined hands with Miracles for Kids and gave what they could to help. This is a vital part of America.
It was fine to be awake early in the morning.
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