WEC is ready for second round

It’s almost that time again — tee time, that is.

After a highly successful first run, Wiregrass Electric Cooperative is polishing its golf clubs to put on the Second Annual Operation Round Up Charitable Golf Tournament at Highland Oaks Golf Course in Dothan on Sept. 7.

“Last year’s turnout was outstanding and exceeded all expectations for a first-time event,” says WEC COO Brad Kimbro. “It was a perfect demonstration of the culture of caring we have here in the Wiregrass. We’re proud to play hosts once again to a wholesome event that brings people together for a round of golf and the chance to win some awesome prizes, all for a great cause.”

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just want to practice your long shot, you’re invited to play an 18-hole round to benefit WEC’s Operation Round Up Charitable Foundation. Through the generosity of members, the foundation provides scholarships to local students, fulfills emergency grant requests and donates to hospitals, first responder units and school programs.

ORU Charitable Foundation is funded almost entirely by the 87% of WEC members who volunteer to round up their monthly electric bill to the next dollar. While the most any one member will contribute in a year is just under $12, the foundation collects more than $120,000 this way annually.

Over the years, Operation Round Up has allocated hundreds of thousands of dollars to fund scholarships for local high schoolers and aspiring linemen, training and equipment for first responder agencies, playground equipment for local s chools, hospital equipment for Southeast Health and emergency assistance to victims of local natural disasters, among many other projects. In addition, WEC partners with WTVY to honor Silent Heroes of the Wiregrass, providing money and recognition to unsung local organiza- tions and individuals making a positive difference in their communities.

“We’ve seen how impactful these grants have been in giving a leg up to people and organizations who truly deserve the help,” Kimbro says. “We wanted to build on that momentum by raising more money and directing help where it’s needed the most. What better way than to capitalize on the beautiful golf courses we have here in the Wiregrass to reach that goal?”

WEC’s 2022 inaugural ORU Charitable Golf Tournament raised an additional $52,000 for the foundation to disburse to worthy causes through grants, big and small. The bar is set higher this year, with the goal of raising more funds to expand the foundation’s impact. All the proceeds of the tournament will benefit causes in the Wiregrass.

Locally owned businesses and vendors are providing numerous door prizes for the event, in addition to cash prizes that will be awarded to the top three teams in net scoring and the team with the top overall gross scorer. There will also be prizes for the longest drive, the closest shot to the pin and the bucket truck ball drop competition.

Event Info

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 7

WHERE: Highland Oaks

Golf Course, Dothan

SCHEDULE: Registration begins at 10 a.m. Lunch is at 11 a.m.

Shotgun star t is at noon.

COST: $500 per four-person team

HOW TO REGISTER: Find the registration form at wiregrass.coop.

INFORMATION: Email Bethany Rether ford at bretherford@ wiregrass.coop for details.

PARTNER WITH US!

SPONSORSHIPS: Three levels of sponsorship are available — platinum, $5,000; gold, $2,500; and silver, $1,500. Hole sponsorships, which are $150, are also available. For more information or to make a commitment, email Bethany Retherford at bretherford@wiregrass.coop today.