Call it an ace for VersAbility Resources.
The Hampton nonprofit exceeded the six-figure fundraising mark at a single event for the first time ever at its Ability Am Golf Tournament held on May 19, 2022.
VersAbility raised $106,560 from the tournament that included 21 teams and 81 golfers competing at Cedar Point Club in Suffolk. Funds raised support VersAbility’s employment programs, including its new Future of Work (FOW) program. This new initiative launched its first welding cohort in January 2022 and will add a second cohort in June.
FOW is designed to help youth and adults with disabilities complete certification programs to prepare them for jobs in high-demand career fields. While welding training is underway, long-term plans include other fields such as medical coding and cybersecurity. Job coaches will provide personalized support with pre-enrollment preparation, technology use, transportation, exam preparation and job placement.
“People with disabilities represent the greatest untapped talent pool that our region needs to thrive” said VersAbility CEO Kasia Grzelkowski. “These funds will allow us to get these capable people off the sidelines and into jobs that lead to fulfilling careers. VersAbility’s employment programs give people with disabilities hope, independence, security and social belonging. We are so appreciative of our community supporters who helped us reach this fundraising milestone.”
Pivot Physical Therapy was Presenting Sponsor for the tournament. Other sponsors included the following:
- Mission Sponsors: Annie Belle Reavis Tuccori (ARBT) Foundation, Rick Gallaer in honor of Seth and Jeremy Gallaer, Tidewater Orthopaedics, TowneBank, and Towne Insurance
- Beverage Sponsors: Atlantic Union Bank, Langley Federal Credit Union, PNC Bank, Sentara CarePlex Hospital, and Wanda Austin.
- Plethora of Putting Green and Hole Sponsors.
Tournament Co-Chair Wayne MacMasters successfully sparked another round of fundraising by offering to match any additional gifts made during the reception. This act of generosity raised an additional $17,000 for people with disabilities served by VersAbility Resources.