The Rockford ProAm presents the YMCA of Rock River Valley with a $40,000 check to support foster families at the Y.
The 43rd annual Rockford ProAM took place July 8 at Aldeen Golf Club. The Y was the beneficiary of this year’s event. Prime sponsors of the event included Woodward, Pierce Distribution, Aqua Aerobic Systems, Kelley Williamson, Rockford Bank and Trust, and Lana Engen.
The Rockford ProAm is the longest-running, free-standing ProAM in the nation. More than 600 community volunteers plan and execute the event that pairs golf professionals with local amateurs for a day of golf. Since its inception in 1977, the tournament has raised more than $3.3 million. These funds have been donated to local non profit organizations.
“We are proud to have such a rich history of supporting local organizations. Golf has brought us together each year, but the impact of this one day lives on through the programs we’ve helped to support,” said Scott Nicholas, President, Rockford ProAM Board of Directors. “We are thrilled area foster children will have access to YMCA programs that help build their confidence.”
On an average day, 1,193 children are in foster care in Winnebago County. ProAm dollars will be used to provide stability in the lives of these children through participation in classes such as swim lessons, basketball or art. The aim is for the children to gain confidence and a sense of belonging at a time when their lives are unstable.
“As foster parents, my wife and I understand the need for more support for foster children,” said Brent Pentenburg, CEO, YMCA of Rock River Valley. “The Y has worked with several local foster care agencies in providing memberships for children, but now with this donation, we can offer programs, too. We are so grateful to the Rockford ProAM Board for investing in these children and helping us increase access.”
Historically, the Rockford ProAM has selected three to five beneficiaries each year to be the recipients of the charitable efforts. A year ago, the Board decided to change course and strive to maximize its giving to one organization. The Board will continue with this strategy in 2020 and has chosen to deepen its impact with the YMCA. The For All Inclusion Program through the Y will be the 2020 beneficiary. The Y’s inclusion services prevent children from being turned away from programs because of disabilities and challenges like autism, ADHD, physical disabilities, and more.
“We are so humbled and blessed to be chosen for a second year,” said Pentenburg. “Our focus is on developing youth in our community. We never want a child to feel left out or isolated because of their differences. The For All Inclusion Program ensures this doesn’t happen. With the ProAM’s support, we will be able to expand our reach.”
If you are interested in more information, or would like to become a ProAm Sponsor, go to
therockfordproam.com.
The 2020 Rockford ProAm will be held Monday, July 13, 2020 at Aldeen Golf Club.