Annual ELEEF Golf Outing raises funds for public schools

Date: 5/16/2013

By Chris Maza

chrism@thereminder.com

EAST LONGMEADOW — The East Longmeadow Educational Endowment Fund (ELEEF) is getting ready for its next big fundraiser to help provide the town's students with much-needed educational equipment and opportunities.

The 14th annual ELEEF Golf Outing, which is one of three major events the nonprofit puts on to raise money for the educational grants it awards, is slated for June 3 at Twin Hills Country Club in Longmeadow. In addition to the golf tournament, ELEEF hosts a dinner dance in the winter and a 5K run/walk in the fall.

"All three [events] raise money so that we can provide the school with different needs that they otherwise can't fund themselves," Lori Parsons, ELEEF golf chair, said.

She went on to explain that ELEEF has contributed $283,000 for the five public schools since its creation in 1995. Among the recent usage for grant funding was the purchase of iPads and the introduction of an instructional string music program in the middle schools and high school.

Last year, the golf tournament alone raised $7,500, attracting more than 80 golfers. While hoping for a good turnout this year, Parsons said she didn't have a specific goal for this year.

"The goal is offering a chance to participate in a great event and have fun while supporting a great cause — raising money for the East Longmeadow schools," she said.

Registration begins at noon with a 1 p.m. shotgun start. A dinner with a cash bar, awards and raffles will follow at 6 p.m.

All players receive a round of golf as well as dinner as part of their registration fee. Foursomes can register for $540, while individuals wishing to play may sign up at a cost $135. Corporate foursomes packages, which include golf, dinner and a sponsorship sign, can be obtained for $750.

In addition to playing, the tournament provides several ways for people to contribute to the fund, Parsons added, including through sponsorships.

"Sponsorships give businesses a chance to promote themselves while supporting the schools in town," she said, adding that ELEEF is still looking for sponsors at two different levels. For $250, businesses can have signage placed at a putting green or at the driving range. Signage at the tee boxes is available for $100.

Parsons also pointed out that several businesses have already donated items to the raffle as a way to give back and suggested that individuals could also do the same.

"Some people want to be involved, but don't golf or can't join us that day," she said. "A donation of a raffle item, even if it's as simple as a bottle of wine, can be a help."

Non-golfers can also show their support that evening by taking advantage of the dinner only option, which is $35 per person.

Those interested in attending or becoming a sponsor may do so by filling out a registration form, which can be found on the ELEEF website, www.eleef.org. Those with questions can contact Parsons at eleefgolf@gmail.com or ELEEF President Damon D'Amico at 575-4155 or damon@aldenmedical.com.