HOPE’s 12th Annual Charity Golf Classic Surpasses $215K Raised to Help Create Affordable Homes for People with Developmental Disabilities

Nov 7

Old Ranch Country Club is prepared on the morning of November 4th to welcome 145 golfers to *HOPE’s 12th Annual Charity Golf Classic*. (HOPE)

On Monday, November 4th, HOPE, Inc. — in partnership with more than 50 local sponsors — hosted its 12th Annual Charity Golf Classic in Seal Beach, California. The event’s objective was to raise money to purchase and renovate affordable housing for people with developmental disabilities. A fundraising goal of $200k was set for this year’s event that was held at Old Ranch Country Club. Before the tournament even started, sponsors had already contributed more than $170K toward accomplishing this goal, with the primary sponsors at the $10K level including Social Vocational Services, California MENTOR, Cambrian Homecare, LRA Interpreters, Patricia Del Monico, and Del Harbor Foundation.

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Golfers mingling as they await their shotgun start. (HOPE)

Once again, ABC7 Sports Anchor Rob Fukuzaki served as Master of Ceremonies for the golf tournament and dinner. The recurring theme of this annual event is “Creating Independence.” HOPE recognizes that a person’s home is the foundation of their life. Without stable housing, it is extremely difficult for an individual with a developmental disability to succeed at school, maintain gainful employment, and build relationships in the community. “This tournament is once again sold out, and all proceeds are going to create independence through housing for people with developmental disabilities,” Rob announced as he welcomed the morning participants and kicked off the day’s events. “So, your attendance today is making a big difference in the lives of those HOPE serves!”

Golfers during tournament, including Greg Eckhardt, James Frawley, Tibor Lody, and Chris Rochon. (HOPE)

This year’s Charity Golf Classic hosted 145 golfers from the local business and philanthropic communities who came together in competition to support this vital cause. The event culminated in a tournament dinner, attended by an additional 72 guests, which included an evening program where guests learned about HOPE’s 2019 accomplishments. “Thank you for being here along-side us, for generously supporting our growth, and for continuing to make housing for those we serve a priority with your time and your giving,” said HOPE Executive Director Kristin Martin as he spoke to attendees at the tournament dinner. “To address this housing crisis, this year HOPE has purchased four new properties in Long Beach and three in Torrance, consisting of 13 units that will serve 31 clients of Harbor Regional Center.”

Later, Kristin brought to the stage HOPE resident Brandon, who discussed the importance of HOPE’s mission in his own life, “Because I have this stable, affordable housing, I am able to prepare for work, keep up with my training, exercise, and practice my Muay Thai,” he shared with the room. “My home also provides me a place to hang out with my friends and family. I honestly believe though that without my affordable apartment, I would lose this independence.”

Because of the strong financial support from those in attendance, HOPE was actually able to raise an additional $45K needed to surpass its total event fundraising goal of $200K and reach $215K+ at the event. Since the Charity Golf Classic launched in 2008, it has raised more than $1.6M to support affordable housing projects in Los Angeles County. Thank you all who have contributed over the years.