Kampgrounds of America (KOA) recently hosted its third annual Fore the Kids Golf Tournament, a fundraising event that brought together supporters nationwide. Held at The Briarwood Golf Club in Billings, Montana, the event raised $20,000 for the Care Camps Foundation. This foundation supports medically supervised pediatric oncology camps that allow children battling cancer to experience the outdoors in a safe and supportive environment.
The tournament welcomed 30 teams, some traveling from as far as Indianapolis, Indiana, and San Diego, California, highlighting the nationwide appeal of the event. Unlike traditional golf tournaments, Fore the Kids incorporated activities such as cornhole contests, water gun races, and relay tic-tac-toe, offering participants a unique and interactive experience on the course.
KOA president and CEO Toby O’Rourke expressed the company’s alignment with Care Camps’ mission. “KOA is a proud supporter of the Care Camps Foundation,” O’Rourke said. “Our mission to connect people to the outdoors and each other aligns seamlessly with Care Camps’ mission to create opportunities for healing, hope, and connection in the outdoors for children experiencing cancer.”
The Care Camps Foundation, a national non-profit organization, funds oncology camps across North America. These camps offer children and their families the chance to participate in outdoor experiences while receiving the necessary medical care. The funds raised from this tournament will help support camp sessions designed for children undergoing cancer treatment.
During the event, Care Camps Foundation staff and board members were present to promote their cause and express gratitude to the participants. George Laufenberg, executive director of Camp Mak-A-Dream in Goldcreek, Montana, also highlighted the significance of KOA’s support. Camp Mak-A-Dream is one of the many camps that benefit from Care Camps’ funding, providing transformative experiences for young cancer patients.
In addition to the activities and networking opportunities, the event fostered a sense of community among participants, volunteers, and sponsors. According to O’Rourke, “We heard from so many participants that this tournament has become one they look forward to every year. It’s great to bring so many partners, volunteers, and supporters together for a fun and meaningful event.”
The significance of this fundraising effort goes beyond the monetary value. As Care Camps Executive Director Gwynn Sullivan noted, “The enthusiastic support and generous donations received from the proceeds will help fulfill our mission of providing transformative camp experiences for children and families navigating a cancer journey.”
Featured image by KOA