Fundraising helps CORE continue with mission of helping those in recovery

Two exciting events provided needed funding for CORE (Communities of Recovery Experience) during their recent fundraising week. In one action-packed week, CORE held their two biggest fundraisers of the year—their annual Golf Tournament and the CORE Auction.

The CORE Golf Tournament was held on May 13 at Thousand Hills Golf Resort in Branson.

"We had 100 golfers this year, with both morning and afternoon sessions to accommodate everyone. We were thrilled with the turnout and the friendly competition that unfolded throughout the day," said Jim Ziegler, Marketing and Development for CORE. "Our golfers came from all over Southwest Missouri, representing businesses, social groups and local individuals who simply wanted to support a great cause. We even had a team from the Branson Police Department join us on the course."

Six cash prizes, ranging from $400 to $1,200 were awarded during the tournament. The event also included individual contests. Joe Allen was the winner of the Closest to the Pin competition. Chris Boedefeld won for Longest Drive and Bryan Taylor won the Longest Putt contest.

"These contests added an extra layer of fun and excitement to an already memorable day," said Ziegler. "We are incredibly grateful to the Thousand Hills Golf Resort for hosting the tournament on their award-winning course. Special thanks, also, goes out to Embers Cigar Lounge, who came out to the course, sold cigars to the golfers and donated the proceeds to CORE. Afterall, golf isn't really golf without a cigar—and we truly appreciate their support and great attitude throughout the day."

Ziegler continued, "We also want to thank our incredible volunteers, sponsors, CORE staff and of course, every golfer who participated. This tournament was truly a community effort, and we were so pleased to see everyone pitch in to make it such a fantastic day."

The annual CORE auction, held on the CORE campus, was also a tremendous success

"We had a full house at this year's auction and the energy in the room was incredible," Ziegler noted. "It was a lively, enthusiastic crowd filled with friends of CORE, local supporters and first-time attendees, all united by the common goal of helping people in recovery. The response and participation exceeded all expectations."

The auction featured a wide variety of items, generously donated by local businesses and individuals throughout the community. Some of the sought-after items included vacation getaways, gift baskets, firearms, sporting goods, themed dinner packages, golf outings, custom art, consumer electronics and other high-end goods from local artisans and businesses.

"The bidding was light-hearted, spirited and competitive all night long. A Buc-ees bucket containing popcorn and chips went for $875, for example, and pies and cakes sold for hundreds of dollars each," Ziegler noted. "It was clear that everyone was there not simply to win items, but to support CORE's recovery mission with enthusiasm and heart."

Ziegler shared his appreciation to the couple who kept the event moving. Said Ziegler, "A heartfelt thank you to Duane and Kay Gerken, who once again served as our auctioneers. Their warmth, humor and skill kept the crowd engaged and the bidding lively throughout the night. They are a true part of the CORE family, and we're so grateful for their continued support."

"To everyone who donated items, placed a bid, raised a paddle or simply came to show support, Thank You," Ziegler continued. "The success of this event is a direct result of the community's generosity and belief in what we do at CORE. We truly couldn't do it without you. And, to our sponsors, you're the best. We also want to recognize Nighthawk Custom, America's leading manufacturer of firearms, for donating a $5,000 custom pistol for our online raffle. The announcement of this exciting raffle during the event was a highlight of the evening, and we're honored by Nighthawk's generosity and support of CORE's mission."

CORE also offered thanks to OZARKS Dynacom, the presenting sponsor for both fundraising events, for helping them spread the word about the golf tournament and auction, as well as Image Works, who managed the print and online campaigns for both events.

"We are deeply grateful for their partnership and dedication," said Ziegler, of the two entitles.

Funds raised from the two events, combined, totaled more than $65,000, to help CORE continue to provide a faith-based recovery solution for those suffering from drug and alcohol addiction.

Said Ziegler, "All proceeds go directly to CORE's residential recovery program for men and women overcoming substance use disorders. These funds help provide housing, transportation, recovery classes and life skills training—the full range of services that empower our clients to rebuild meaningful and productive lives from the ground up."