The Foundation for Firelands celebrates event successes

(Sandusky, Ohio) The Foundation for Firelands hosted its annual fundraising events on Aug. 11 and 12, 2024, raising over $348,000 to benefit patient care at Firelands Health. Participants had a fantastic time at the Best Summer Bash on August 11 at Kalahari Resorts. Jason Lawhead, comedian, host, writer and sports podcaster, brought stand-up comedians Sean O'Brien and Greg Warren to entertain the crowd. "This event grossed more than $189,000 from enthusiastic and compassionate donors, a testament to the success and enjoyment of the event," explained The Foundation for Firelands Director Alice Springer. The Mainstage Sponsors who helped make the Best Summer Bash a success include Janotta & Herner, Laura and Dan Keller, Mathews Ford, SEI and Tusing Builders & Roofing Services.

The following day, 148 golfers gathered at Plum Brook Country Club to participate in the 14th annual Foundation for Firelands "Caddyshack" Open golf tournament. Thanks to their participation and generous donations, donors contributed $159,142. These funds will directly assist patients battling a cancer diagnosis, making a tangible and significant difference in their care. "Your contributions will make a difference and we are immensely proud of and grateful for your support," said Springer. The "Caddyshack" Open Bushwood Champ Mega Sponsors include Janotta & Herner, Laura and Dan Keller, Dr. Amy Reese and Dr. Norleena Poynter, SEI, Tusing Builders & Roofing Services, and Art, Carol, Artie and Amy Wolfe.

The Foundation for Firelands raffled off a state-of-the-art 2024 Evolution D5-Ranger 4 LSV golf cart, which was donated by Janotta & Herner and Catawba Island Carts as part of the "Caddyshack" Open fundraiser to support patient care at Firelands Health. At the start of the tournament, Zach Jones, President and CEO of Janotta & Herner, picked the lucky winner's ticket in front of 148 golfers. Delores Riley, known as "Dee" to her friends and family, won the golf cart. Jody Mast, development officer of The Foundation for Firelands, had the privilege of calling Delores to tell her the exciting news that she was the winner of the golf cart.

Delores was overwhelmed with joy. She exclaimed, "I never win anything." Jody asked her if she would mind sharing her age, and Delores happily told her she was 96 years young. Delores had just renewed her driver's license and still mows the grass at her farm. Her joy and excitement were palpable, adding a special touch to the event.

The Foundation for Firelands extends its heartfelt gratitude to all the donors who generously contributed to these two events. "Your support has significantly impacted our mission to provide quality patient care at Firelands Health," said The Foundation for Firelands Development Officer Jody Mast.

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