We are so fortunate to be hosting our SIXTEENTH annual golf outing. Wow. We would have never guessed we would be doing this for so many years. We have so many people to thank, like our ongoing sponsors, but also the many, many participants and volunteers who join us each year to make the day a memorable one. We asked some of them a few questions about why they return to the event each year. Here is what they had to say.
Leslie Carruthers says…
Do you have a funny story from any of the years you participated in Golf for Autism? What’s the best part of the day for you?
One year I invited a girlfriend who doesn’t play golf often. She assumed there would be clubs provided by the golf course. Luckily I brought an extra set, just in case.
What keeps you coming back each year?
Great cause, great people, and I feel like I’m making a difference thanks to the good works of OEF.
Do you have a personal story as to why it is so important to you to be part of the day each year?
I loved fielding a team that included my dad and girlfriends. Unfortunately, Dad can no longer participate, and I have so many fond memories from the course with him.
Kip Bollin says…
What keeps you coming back each year?
This event has everything – friends, fun, golf, and underlying it all is that we’re helping to support some kids get the services they need and deserve. The best part of the day is when we’re all together, the silly / very meaningful awards are given and received, and we hear the heartwarming words about how people’s lives are being changed. It’s a touching end to a wonderful day.
What is the biggest thing you’ve learned about speech disorders through OEF/Golf for Autism? What have you been surprised to learn?
I was surprised to learn that early and effective intervention can make such a huge difference in a kid’s life. I’ve literally gotten to see that difference, year over year. It’s amazing.
Jim Kozak says…
What keeps you coming back each year?
I love the golf. It’s been a part of my life for over 30 years. This outing is unique to me because of the meals and the time I get to spend with the other participants–getting to see repeat faces, catching up with old friends, and meeting new people.
One of the biggest reasons that I keep coming back is the sense of community among the participants. OEF has been able to create this community of giving and being part of something larger than ourselves that is putting good into the world.
What is the biggest thing you’ve learned about speech disorders through OEF/Golf for Autism? What have you been surprised to learn?
What I was surprised by also impresses me the most–the use of technology. I have been blessed with three amazing children, and OEF has opened my limited lens to others that have amazing children as well; they just need additional resources. If we don’t provide resources for our children, why are we even doing this thing called life?
Kristin Kalinowski says…
Do you have a funny story from any of the years you participated in Golf for Autism? What’s the best part of the day for you?
The early years of taking pictures for Golf for Autism were always an adventure. Laura and I would jump into a golf cart and were on the hunt to get a picture of each and every golfer. It became a scavenger hunt as it was always a challenge to find the last few. Then we were rushing to the store to get them developed and in frames and on display by the time the golfers were coming in for dinner. There are two memorable moments from that time. First was the time our cart was running out of ”juice” and I had to push Laura and the cart up the hill. The second was when I was using a camera I was not familiar with and every picture I took was actually a mini video! We tried to take screenshots and print them, but everyone ended up having digital beards! Not my best moment! lol!
Do you have a personal story as to why it is so important to you to be part of the day each year?
As an early childhood intervention specialist for preschoolers on the autism spectrum, I am obviously passionate about early intervention. I’ve been lucky to watch Josh grow from a preschooler into a successful young adult. They have been able to reach their full potential because they have had access to intervention, and the support needed to be the person they are today, in and outside of school. I don’t always get to see my students grow from preschool to adulthood, so watching Josh grow energizes my passion. As I help build the foundation of intervention and learning for my young students, my passion comes from knowing each and every one of my students can reach their full potential just like Josh. But, I also know this can not only happen in the classroom. Support is needed in the home and outside the classroom. Organizations like OEF help ensure that kids are thriving in all aspects of their lives. I am a firm believer in the old adage: “It takes a village to raise a child.” As an educator, I am grateful that organizations like OEF are part of my students’ village.
