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At The Arc of the Ozarks, in its on-campus gym in north Springfield, the proof is there before your eyes.

Nick Koechner? He’s all smiles. Same with his mom.  And it’s like this every day as the non-profit hosts its summer camp. One week, it’s all about fitness, the next it’s Hollywood week as campers put on talent shows, followed by aquatics and then heroes – in which the kids head to the Air & Military Museum.

“He loves it,” Mom Denise Koechner said. “And I love it because I know he’s in good hands.”

If you’re wondering how your donations assist the Price Cutter Charity Championship presented by Dr Pepper, here’s further proof. Because at The Arc of the Ozarks, summer camp for 100 kids with developmental disabilities is funded by the PCCC.

And now here’s your chance again to help Nick and other kids enjoy summertime. The tournament, a PGA Web.com Tour event coming up August 5-15, benefits 43 children’s charities across the Ozarks.

And last year, with its efforts, The Arc of the Ozarks earned a prestigious honor – the Web.com Tour’s Charity of the Year award.

About The Arc of the Ozarks

For the Koechner family, The Arc of the Ozarks has been a real blessing. Nick is now 21 and has been a part of the summer camp for years. He’s one of those cool kids unafraid to have fun and smile.

“It’s helped him grow,” Denise said of her son, who previously attended Glendale High School. “He’s become more independent and that’s what we want for our kids.”

The Arc of the Ozarks, now in its 11^th season with the PCCC, was formed and incorporated in 1964 and, even today, it puts 100 percent of its donations towards its programs.

In 1959, a small group of parents recognized the need for services for children with developmental disabilities. A support network was built for these children and their families resulting in the 1964 establishment of The Arc.

It now services 700 individuals in 16 southwest Missouri counties and recently expanded into Kansas City. The Arc employs 1,400.

Summer camp draws 45 kids in June and another 45 in July, and the slots fill up quickly after being posted in March. Forty percent of the kids have autism, while others have physical disabilities or developmental disabilities.

Every Monday, for example, the kids attend music therapy at Drury University. Even better, the staff emphasizes that the kids take personal responsibility – such as cleaning up after lunch and so forth.

“I think being part of the Price Cutter Charity Championship is not only about the funds we receive at the end, but the marketing we do to the public,” said Danielle Wise, Development Director of The Arc of the Ozarks. “But it’s also networking with other charities. Instead of competing for the same money, we’re working together to raise as much money as possible. That’s why we’re a huge part of it.”

Here’s how to help:

RISING STARS, RAISING HOPES

• BUSINESS SPONSORSHIPS: Businesses also can support the PCCC through various sponsorships, such as the skyboxes on the 9^th and 18^th 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.

  

• HELP THE ARC OF THE OZARKS: The non-profit oversees children with developmental disabilities and uses 100 percent of donations to its programs. Call 417-864-7887.