On Aug. 2 at the Blackthorne Country Club in Jonesborough, Tennessee, the Court Appointed Special Advocates of Northeast Tennessee is set to host its 16th annual golf tournament — a fundraising event in support of assisting neglected and abused children.
The tournament is prepared to accommodate both two and four-person teams but will also need an abundance of volunteers to assist in the movement.
Wendy Hensley, executive director of CASA Northeast Tennessee, urges community members to lend a helping hand, as the organization heavily depends on the aid and kindness of volunteers and participants.
“We really rely on individuals to help support our fundraising event, whether it’s playing or volunteering,” Hensley said. “What better way could there be to fight child abuse than a day out on the course?”
For over 4 years, CASA has improved countless lives of children across the East Tennessee region. On any given year, Wendy and her team are tasked with providing support for over 300 children, ensuring a safer and more secure home life.
Karen Tipton, a court-appointed CASA member and advocate, touched on the significance of community involvement and funding.
“It really is incredible to see the difference that donations make,” Tipton said. “If a group of friends decided to volunteer or play in this tournament, there really isn’t a measurement on how impactful it would be.”
Forty six percent of the nonprofit’s total agency budget consists of fundraising and donations given by outsiders. The annual golf tournament happens to be the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year.
“Events like this are so important for our organization on many levels,” Tipton explained. “Not only does it give a direct contribution to helping these kids, but it also allows CASA to expand its reach and do things that wouldn’t have been possible before.”
And though many are eager to accommodate those in need, very few know how to. Hensley believes that the August tournament is the perfect opportunity for the community to do just that.
“CASA provides a healthy environment for a child to grow and flourish,” Hensley said. “A day on the course having fun with friends will help CASA fight child abuse all year.”
For more information on tournament tickets and volunteer opportunities, please visit mycasaevent.com or contact Wendy Hensley at (423)-462-3500 and/or hensley@casanetn.org.
