New 9-hole outings save time and earn $$ Over the last few years, the golf industry has seen a drop in the number of golfers who participate in traditional 18-hole golf outings. This is especially troublesome to charitable causes or nonprofit organizations that rely on these events for fundraising. Starting in April 2014, Sauganash Golf Club will offer a shorter, 9-hole fundraiser golf outing option to local organizations and will return 10% of the golf fees to the charity! One reason for the drop in outing participation may be the time commitment. A typical outing for 80-100 people would tee off at 8 or 9 a.m. and finish (after food and awards) somewhere between 2-4 p.m. That’s most of a day away from work or chores. People may not have 5-6 hours to commit to a traditional outing, no matter how much they support the cause. Offering 9-hole outings is a way to shorten the time commitment and, hopefully, increase the number of golfers who participate. The 9-hole charity outing also offers a significantly smaller entry fee to play in an event, which may bring in more (and younger) players, and as a result, a higher return to the charity. Outings in the $25-$35 per person range may attract more people to support the cause. Another plus for the shorter 9-hole format is that it encourages golfers of all abilities and ages to support the cause. Games and competitions beyond “longest drive,” or “closest to the pin” allow all players a chance to win, regardless of ability or age. Finally, at the end of the day, as its way of helping the many worthy causes in the area, Sauganash will
donate 10% of the golf fees BACK to the organization. At some point, Sauganash hopes to establish an annual charity event of its own for a nonprofit in the St. Joseph County area, but with so many to choose from, this will be a good start. Charity outings cost as little as $22 per person and includes 9 holes with a cart, a light lunch or appetizers, and an awards ceremony. The organization is encouraged to recruit sponsors for holes, prizes, putting contests, and more and marketing and publicity support is provided by the course to help them get started. Other meal options and discounted prize packages are available from the course. If you have a worthy cause, or know of a charity that wants to host an outing, call me at 269-5010262. —Bob