The third-annual Soboba Casino and Soboba Foundation Charity Golf Tournament on April 3, at the Country Club at Soboba Springs, included 172 participants, and more than 85 volunteers. The golf course was filled with a healthy mixture of competition and playful spirit. Attendee Jeff Shepard said, “This was such an exciting event and everybody was so positive and happy to be here. It’s great to see a lot of local support.”
After a fun-filled day of golf, the tournament exceeded its $100,000 fundraising goal, and was able to support a number of local nonprofit organizations. A total of four nonprofit organizations were chosen as this year’s beneficiaries, which received support from tournament funds directly. Beneficiaries include: C.A.S.A., a foundation that assists sexual-assault survivors and their families through crisis counseling, services and advocacy; EEK Fitness, a nonprofit organization that provides exercise, recreation and learning programs for the special-needs community and their families; The Ramona Humane Society, a nonprofit, open-admission animal shelter, animal control agency and high-quality, low-cost spay/neuter and wellness clinic; and V.I.P. Tots, offering both center-based and home-based intervention services, as well as special programs for children with autism and behavior support needs, and basic childcare.
“All of our sponsors, volunteers and tribal members that attended were equally important. Without their support the tournament would not have been as successful,” remarked Golf Tournament Committee Chair Isaiah Vivanco. He continued, “It shows how a tribal, local and business community can come together as one and make a difference. We are grateful for all of our sponsors, committee members, the Tribe, the volunteers and the country club’s tireless assistance in making this event a huge success. Thank you again.”
Ray Shalizi, general manager of the Country Club at Soboba Springs said, “The country club was elated to have been able to facilitate this significant display of community support for local nonprofits and economic development. A fun day filled with kindness and generosity will be remembered for years to come.”
