On a brilliant late September day, 113 golfers checked in to play in a golf tournament held at Cuscowilla. ATLAS, a 501(c)3 ministry based in Greensboro. The fundraising team of 16 individuals and the 25 volunteers executed by all accounts a nearly flawless tournament.
The winning foursome was Dr Flynn Nance, Charlie Benton, Scott Ward and Frank Travetto. The tournament was unusual in that there were prizes for 5th place and 10th place. Dennis Hoffman got closest to the pin, Greg Kitch won the putting contest and Rob Bowser had the longest drive.
The fundraiser was truly a community event. There were 18 tournament sponsors who donated from the bronze level of $1,000 to the platinum level of $10,000 or more, evenly split between individuals and local businesses. Local businesses and friends donated over 80 items for the silent auction which values ranged from $10 to over $3,600. One of the most intriguing items was an offering of 100 pounds locally grown, antibiotic- and hormone-free Angus beef by Briarpatch Farms in Eatonton.
There were an average of 4 hole sponsors for the 18-hole golf course for a total of 74 signs. 8 local businesses participated in providing fun stuff at several holes to encourage and distract the golfers. 15 local restaurants donated gift certificates to a “raffle basket” that totaled $800. Out of nearly 400 raffle basket tickets sold, the winner was Barbara Johnson of Greensboro.
Executive Director Rob Mitchell was elated that the community support for the ministry will help to insure that ATLAS continues its mission to ignite hope, build families and transforming lives. For instance, ATLAS currently mentors 36 local families by giving a “hand-up” rather than a “hand-out” to those who are committed to change in order to reach vital life goals. ATLAS is also making a mark in all of the middle and high schools in Greene County by teaching values and principles for success through its’ HOPE division (Healthy Options for Personal Empowerment.)
Rob also states that volunteers are the driving force impelling the work. There are over fifteen different wide-ranging areas in which to serve. If you have an hour a week or more and want to have an impact on the lives of others, contact Jessica Bush at (706) 453-0581 for more information.
