MANLIUS, N.Y. (NCC News) – The Hospice Golf Open is back for its 26th year.
Hosted at the Calvary Club in Manlius, the tournament raises money for the Hospice of Central New York and Finger Lakes.
Director of development Laurie Simpson says, while the tournament has been around for over 25 years, the hospice care that the foundation provides has been around for much longer.
“About 40 years ago was when hospice became active in the [Central New York] community, helping people at the end of life,” Simpson said.
Hospice care provides both physical and emotional support for individuals nearing the end of their lives. Hospice CNY offers grief support, physicians’ aid, and spiritual care for the members who pass through their care.
The tournament has seen a steady growth in attendance over the years, as golfers come year after year to show their solidarity.
Golfer Travis Coty said he received a call to participate in the tournament and did not hesitate to sign up.
“They’ve given a lot back to the community,” he said. “Any time we can give back to them is a great day.”
For Donald Penoyer, the tournament is a family affair. The family’s group has been playing in the Hospice Golf Tournament since the very beginning.
“[Hospice CNY] provides great service,” Penoyer said. “It’s a benefit to be here.”
In her eyes, Simpson says that putting on the tournament is the way she can show the importance of Hospice Care.
“I don’t know if I have the ability to do the hands-on [care.] I don’t know if I have that,” she said. “But I know that I can speak to the community and educate people about what hospice does, so we have the support to keep us going.”
The tournament’s funds will go directly to Hospice CNY’s current 1,300 patients and their families. The organization’s next event is a run-walk on July 6.
