Stretching a dollar these days can be a challenge. Just ask Brandi McNelly, whose two sons enjoy attending sporting events.
Fortunately, Jeremiah and Matthew McNelly have been able to attend Missouri State Bears basketball games the past few years – thanks to the Missouri State University Foundation, which receives an assist.
That assist being the Price Cutter Charity Championship presented by Dr Pepper, an annual PGA Web.com Tour stop in Springfield. The tournament has gifted almost $13 million to children’s charities in the past 26 years.
“Sometimes it’s hard for those things to happen,” Brandi said, explaining that she, like many families, operates with a tight budget. “They’re excited when they go. They’re talking about going with their friends. The atmosphere is so energetic.”
About the MSU Foundation
For the McNelly family, the MSU Foundation has been a positive in life. You see, Jeremiah and Matthew attend the Boys & Girls Club of Springfield and have made numerous friends.
Among activities are trips to MSU sporting events, as the MSU Foundation provides tickets to the club, among many other organizations.
The Foundation distributes the tickets through its Bears Assisting Youth program. That program has been extremely valuable to local youths, who since the year 2000 have been able to see the Bears and Lady Bears basketball teams – remember the Jackie Stiles era? – as well as baseball and football games.
The baseball team in 2015 recently won an NCAA Division I Regional and finished ranked among the Top 10 in the country. The basketball teams have been competitive in the Missouri Valley Conference, one of the top Division I mid-major circuits.
“In turn, we’ll give tickets to groups at a reduced cost,” said Brent Dunn, Vice President for University Advancement. “And we try to give them an experience, too, whether it’s tours of the facilities or other events depending on the group we’re working with. We try to make it more than just a game.”
It’s also a way for the university to bring young students on campus. That’s especially important these days now that Missouri State has expanded its football stadium and added several new sports facilities. In essence, the campus looks spectacular.
“The university’s main purpose is for education, but we also are a big part of the community,” Dunn said. “To get kids on campus at every age – whatever it is, arts, sports – that is important. They at least have a sense of higher education, and they can identify with an institution they are now familiar with.”
RISING STARS, RAISING HOPES
BUSINESS SPONSORSHIPS: Businesses also can support the PCCC through various sponsorships, such as the skyboxes on the 9th and 18th greens (with food badges), on-course signage and events such as a dozen Pro-Ams. Businesses also can donate a gift card with at least a $25 value in the name of your charity of choice to benefit them in the Golf Ball & Charity Auction presented by Copy Products, Inc. and University Plaza.
WIN A NEW TRUCK: The purchase of a $25 TLC Properties Charity Sweepstakes ticket can win one of 500 daily gift cards as well as grand prizes of $10,000 and a 2016 Ford F-150 XLT. It’s also good for a four-day tournament pass.
SEE THE FUTURE OF THE PGA TOUR: The PCCC is from Aug. 5-15, with the pros beginning play on Aug. 11 at Highland Springs Country Club. For tickets or other ways to assist, call the Price Cutter Charity Championship staff at 417-887-3400.