Charity spotlight: Kiwanis Clubs of Springfield

Kiwanis Clubs of Springfield

The story goes that, back in the 1950s, several Springfield business leaders formed a second Kiwanis Club in order to supply kids in need with brand-new shoes.

“We’ve given out 25,000 pairs of shoes over the years,” said Jim Weld, treasurer for the Kiwanis Clubs of Ozark Empire.

The Price Cutter Charity Championship presented by Dr Pepper, a major fundraiser for Ozarks children’s charities, is proud to have the Kiwanis Clubs of Springfield on board for the first time.

The tournament has gifted almost $13 million in its 26-year history, with the tournament long given national appeal because it is part of the PGA’s Web.com Tour.

A  year ago the Kiwanis Club of Ozark Empire handed out more than 1,000 pairs of new shoes at the Shoe Bank. For a child to receive a new pair of shoes, they must qualified for the federal free or reduced food programs in public schools. The Kiwanis Club’s shoe bank is open on Thursdays and some Saturdays during the school year.

“It is something that is very rewarding,” Weld said. “To me, it allows you to interact with a child and see the immediate results on a child’s face once they try on a new pair of shoes. It’s a way for people to give of their time, and there is power in groups.”

Here’s how to help through the PCCC:

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.

    The Ultimate sponsorship means air-conditioned seating on the 18th green and a chance to win a Corvette Stingray.
    The Ultimate sponsorship means air-conditioned seating on the 18th green and a chance to win a Corvette Stingray.
  • 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.

    Win this truck or $10,000 in the TLC Properties Charity Sweepstakes, with a $25 buy-in.
    Win this truck or $10,000 in the TLC Properties Charity Sweepstakes, with a $25 buy-in.
  • 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.

    Dawie vander Walt shows his winners trophy after the final round of the Price Cutter Charity Championship at Highland Springs Country Club in Springfield on August 16, 2015.
    Dawie vander Waltwon the 2015 PCCC. (Photo courtesy of StidzMedia)
  • HELP KIWANIS CLUBS OF SPRINGFIELD: To help Kiwanis Clubs of Springfield, call 417-885-9191.