Golden Oldies raise funds at annual Charity Golf Day
Over 120 golf players and sponsors came together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.
The Modderfontein Golden Oldies Community and Hockey Association hosted its annual Charity Golf Day at the Kempton Park Golf Club on October 25.
For decades, the Golden Oldies (GOs) have taken pride in helping various organisations and individuals in need, raising funds through this much-anticipated event.
This year, over 120 golf players and sponsors came together to make a meaningful difference.
Each player received a goodie bag, and those attending the prizegiving ceremony walked away with prizes.
ALSO READ: Allen Park Retirement Village hosts annual fundraiser
Event organiser Shen Reid estimated this year’s event raised about R150 000, pending final accounting.
Reid thanked all hole sponsors, cash and prize donors, and those who bought the auction items.
“We had a few hole sponsors but hope to see more sponsors on board next year,” said Reid.
The GOs began their Charity Golf Day tradition 19 years ago, and since then, have raised over R1.5m to support worthy causes.
“Not one cent raised by the GOs is used for administration, salaries or anything outside of donations to those in need.”
ALSO READ: Grace Foundation hosts a fundraiser
As a true NPO, the GOs have been committed to their mission since their founding in 1978.
Reflecting on the organisation’s early years, Reid said it was founded in the early 1980s.
“We decided we needed to give back to those in need. We initially focused on donating wheelchairs to deserving recipients and institutions.”
They made the first wheelchair donation on June 10, 1984, and the GOs’ charitable work has expanded significantly since.
Over the past 46 years, they have contributed to many individuals and organisations, often supporting medical expenses, buying wheelchairs and other assistive devices and offering aid in various forms.
ALSO READ: Hospice East Rand hosts a successful fundraiser
Reid emphasised the golf day boosted their ability to give back, thanks to the loyal support of the participants, sponsors, and donors.
“Our cumulative donations now exceed R1.7m. We are incredibly proud of this milestone, which was reached only with the generosity of our supporters and sponsors,” he said.
The GOs continue to impact many lives.
Recently, they committed R48 000 towards nursing support for Gracey Stanton, who required specialised blood testing in the USA.
Among the organisations the GOs have supported over the years are the Gerald Fitzpatrick Home for destitute women, where they distribute Christmas hampers annually, and various other individuals and groups, including Tristan Parker, who received R15 000 for a specially designed wheelchair and R10 000 for additional expenses.
ALSO READ: Sector 6 CPF hosts market day fundraiser at Bonaero Park
Other beneficiaries have included Pathways Roodepoort, Don la Grange, and Retina South Africa.
“Year after year, we remain committed to enhancing the lives of those in need,” said Reid.
“Our golf days allow us to continue supporting individuals and organisations and we are grateful to our loyal supporters and sponsors for helping us achieve this.”
