If you are superstitious, you might have some trepidation heading into your thirteenth year of business. Yet for the volunteers “buddies,” athletes and coaches of Parkland Buddy Sports, a program that provides quality sports programming for children and young adults with special needs, year thirteen has been an extremely fortunate one. This past July, the 501 C (3) non-profit organization, dispensed of its monetary program fee. “Going fee free took a leap of faith but I am so thankful to be part of a community who has provided the resources that we need to keep the programs going,” said Vanessa Kickhoefer, Parkland Buddy Sports board member.
In February, the organization received more good news when they received the “Publix Community Choice Award” and a $1,000 grant at the 5th Annual South Florida Community Care Network Non-Profit Academy Awards hosted by the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and presented by 211 Broward. “This is truly a community based award and we are grateful to have such great support” said Bob Mayersohn, Parkland Buddy Sports President.
The good fortunes continued when the program received a grant from the South Florida PGA with the support of the Mike Richards Golf Academy and cooperation of Parkland Golf and Country Club to pilot a golf program. Once the program is completed, discussions will begin about expanding the opportunities.
The organization will be awarding two $1,000 scholarships to our student volunteers at the 3rd Annual “No Limits” Golf Classic Fundraiser in May. The Eaton Family Scholarship will be awarded to a student who is pursuing a career in the field of social services and the Scott Cohen Service Scholarship will be awarded to a student who will continue to advocate in their communities beyond high school. The organization is keeping to their mission of being an inclusive program by awarding one, $1,000 scholarship to an athlete. The Muriel Zaukas Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to an athlete/player to assist with continuing education.
Education and empowerment with a motto of “No Limits” are the driving forces of a program that works tirelessly to create an environment free of physical, social and cultural barriers. “As a Parkland Buddy Sports volunteer, I have been enlightened by the true meaning of life skills,” said Caroline Ayteo, a former buddy volunteer and scholarship recipient, who is now attending California Institute of Technology. “I have become more responsible, compassionate, understanding and patient. When I see the players persevere, so determined and enthusiastic, I realize that there truly are no limits.”
100% of all funds raised by sponsorships and donations are used to purchase equipment, uniforms and trophies and to fund program-end celebrations. Neither the staff nor board members receive any compensation. For more information please visit Parkland Buddy Sports website at www.ParklandBuddySports.com
