The CFL alumni golf tournament on Sept. 11 weekend raised around $50,000 for the United Way of Southeastern Alberta. -- SUBMITTED PHOTO MILT DUQUETTE
Local United Way officials report that funds raised at their annual CFL alumni golf tournament have dropped in 2020, but they are buoyed by support shown and invigorated now that they’ve restarted fundraising events.
The event, which concluded on the Sept. 11 weekend, brought in about $50,000 for the United Way of Southeastern Alberta.
That’s about 25 per cent less than previous years, mainly due to a limit on entries, but with better than usual auction and continued support from Canadian Football League Alumni Association.
“We went full steam ahead and the response was excellent,” said United Way executive director Missy Fandrick. “It really was so important to go ahead with it after it was cancelled in May.”
It’s emboldened the organization to determine how to modify or replace its fall and winter fundraisers, and support its workplace fundraising drives.
Those support almost two dozen local charities, but generally depend on in-person activities.
“All of our events are extremely social in nature, but we’ll find a way,” said Fandrick.
The golf tournament has been held for the last 22 years each spring, featuring former pro football players hob-knobbing with local golfers, but was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
For the rescheduled end-of-summer event, 15 CFLers attended, including local product Nathan Coehoorn for the first time, in a field of golfers that was limited to 100.
That’s down from the traditional 160 that usually turn out, but what was available sold out.
As well, the online auction that replaced the traditional silent auction was more successful. The organization plans to keep that format for future years, regardless of health restrictions.
The organization is now reviewing plans for two other large fundraisers that take place in the fall, namely the Halloween Haunted House and Christmas gift-wrapping booth.
Fandrick said the public will be apprised of any changes as they are determined.
