Annual golf tournament will raise money for Veteran’s Home
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- For the eighth consecutive year, the Veteran's Home Assistance League is sponsoring a golf tournament in St. Joseph to raise money for the Cameron Veteran's Home.
The tournament will take place on Thursday, July 17, at the St. Joseph Country Club.
Veteran's Assistance League member, Mark Horstman said this tournament provides a great opportunity to have fun with friends, while honoring veterans.
"We all enjoy the camaraderie, which golf brings to all of us," Horstman said. "And we get to know some of the veterans and show appreciation for what they've done for us and the sacrifices they have made."
Former Missouri State Representative and Vietnam Veteran, Pat Conway, has participated in this tournament from the beginning and served for several years on the veteran's committee in Missouri while a representative from District 10.
He said the funds allow the Veteran's Home to go beyond what the state budget is able to do.
"We can do only so much with the state budget," Conway said. "What this does is provide assistance to veterans -- things they need -- that don't fall within the parameters of the state budget."
Volunteer Coordinator at Cameron Veteran's Home, Allison Dredge, said the funds raised this year will assist in transportation.
"This will be able to purchase vans to go to and from appointments," Dredge said. "They can also have fun outings like going to a Royals game or other outings they otherwise wouldn't be able to participate in."
Dredge added, donations and fundraisers happen all over the state for the Cameron facility, since it is part of the state's annual budget.
There are three key golf fundraisers in this St. Joseph area each year: one in Cameron, one in Maryville and the upcoming tournament in St. Joseph.
Most of the veterans at the facility are from the Vietnam Era but does include a few Korean War veterans, as well.
Conway and Horstman said, each year an ROTC honor guard and other special moments at the event combine with playing the game to make it a special day.
Hole sponsors often honor a service member or a veteran, and the sponsorship starts at $100 per hole.
The St. Joseph Country Club is located at 50 Ridgeland Road in St. Joseph and questions can be directed to Allison Dredge at her email address: allison.dredge@mvc.dps.mo.gov.
Those interested in participating or sponsoring a hole can also call (816) 649-1622.
