Ernie and Liezl celebrate with the Els for Autism team (from left-to-right, Lily Jezerinac, Liezl Els, Paige Thomas, Olivia Butler, Dr. Marlene Sotelo, Jennifer Nicholas, Dr. Erin Broker Lozott, Ernie Els) during this year’s Grand Finale attended by winners, sponsors and top fundraisers of the annual Golf Challenge.
A total of 687 teams, 1,373 participants and 667 separate donations amounting to $3,528,385 are the key numbers behind the 2022 Golf Challenge, the 12th instalment of this groundbreaking series of regional fundraising golf events at top-rated courses across the US and Canada. And every October, when it all ends, the winners, sponsors and top fundraisers gather at the now traditional Grand Finale, a two-day extravaganza of golf and entertainment at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar in Nassau, Bahamas, including a round at the spectacular Ernie Els-designed Albany golf course.
“The Grand Finale is one of the highlights of the year for Liezl and me,” comments Ernie. “It’s a pleasure for us and the rest of the team at Els for Autism to spend time with everyone who earns their place at the Grand Finale and to have some fun together. Liezl and I have spoken about this before; we’re humbled by their commitment and efforts to raise money for our foundation. They have our sincere gratitude and respect. They’re literally helping change peoples’ lives, making a positive impact for individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorder. And the results of their fundraising efforts are evident every day in the wonderful work being done at The Els Center of Excellence.”
Since its inception in 2011, over 20,000 rounds have been played in the Golf Challenge and a total of over $33 million has been raised, an incredible achievement. Every dollar and cent benefits the Els for Autism Foundation, which is committed to better understanding the aspirations of people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and helping them to fulfil their potential to lead positive, productive and rewarding lives, through:
- Understanding the nature of ASD and facilitating the development and delivery of treatment therapies, educational programs, training programs, and recreational programs as well as residential and independent living programs.
- The development of global outreach that will facilitate the sharing of best practices and programs.
- Raising awareness and promoting the value, acceptance and inclusion of people with ASD.
To sign up for updates and news on how to participate in the 2023 Golf Challenge, please visit the website: https://e4agolf.com.
