Play FORE The Cure was designed to provide the ultimate player experience, from tip to toe. It was held at the world-class Robert Trent Jones Golf Club (RTJ), just outside of Washington D.C. in Gainesville, VA. RTJ’s PGA instructor Dennis O’Donovan held a golf clinic for the players. Players had a rich gift package, including $200 of Adidas merchandise, Tervis Tumblers, a Mackenzie’s Mission golf towel and RTJ/Mackenzie’s Mission coin ball marker. Fantastic contests with prizes including 5-day cruises and $10,000 cash gave the players plenty of motivation. A silent auction, thoughtfully curated with items including foursomes at courses such as RTJ, Kinloch Golf Club, and RiverBend County Club; golf equipment from Taylor Made; a beautiful handmade mahogany Gentlemen’s watch box; special half-case cabernet sauvignon bottles from Euclid Wines; fine jewelry from Washington Diamond; VIP package from Mecum Auctions; a weekend with a Bentley Bentayga; and a night in the Presidential suite at Ritz-Carlton added to the success. The evening program, emceed by my father Mark, included my keynote speech, where I shared the background behind Play FORE The Cure and why it’s so important.
The objective of the fundraiser was two-fold:
- Support the newly launched Amyloidosis Speakers Bureau, focused on educating future doctors during their first/second year of medical school; and
- Support research at multiple leading amyloidosis research institutions.
Raising money is central to every fundraiser. We maximized the monies raised through player registrations, sponsorships, donations, silent auction, 50/50 raffle, and mulligans. We amplified the net proceeds through the judicious management of expenses and generous donations of items and services.
In the end, we raised over $163,000!!!!
In addition, our efforts to raise awareness about amyloidosis took shape through easy-to-read pamphlets in player and volunteer gift bags (thank you Muriel and the Amyloidosis Support Groups!), and sharing the story of my journey and the disease. Over 80 people have now been introduced to amyloidosis, a rare and incurable disease.
We are grateful for the contributions of our supporters, which include sponsors, auction donors, cash donors, and wonderful volunteers. We are also particularly appreciative of the support from local amyloidosis patients, offering their time and involvement to ensure success! Thanks to RTJ for hosting us at your beautiful world-class venue, and of course, a big thank you to our players who enjoyed the full day of activities!
We look forward to seeing you next year, and thank you everyone for your support.
With my warmest regards,
Mackenzie
