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 $14 million to children’s charities in the past 27 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 this year 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.”
HELP THE MSU FOUNDATION
The non-profit, in part, covers a portion of ticket costs for area families to attend Missouri State sporting events. Call 417-836-4143.
CORPORATE SKYBOXES on the 9th and 18th greens, and tents on the 18th fairway
These include covered seating and all-inclusive badges into the Jackson Brothers of the South VIP Tent (food and beverages).
PRO-AMS: Play with a pro & enjoy top courses such as Highland Springs, Buffalo Ridge Golf Course, LedgeStone Country Club, Millwood Golf & Racquet Club & Fremont Hills Country Club. Includes a great golfer gift package, continental breakfast, lunch, on-course beverages, team photos & trophies. Check out our list of golf experiences
ON-COURSE SPONSORSHIPS
Bleachers, water coolers and much more can help generate interest in your business, and will go a long way toward helping kids in the Ozarks. See our full menu of options.
HONORING OUR HEROES PROGRAM
A great way to support military, law enforcement and first responders as well Ozarks children’s charities — as they receive free admission as well as food and drinks thanks to your sponsorships. Follow this link
$25 TLC PROPERTIES SWEEPSTAKES TICKETS
They are only $25 each, and gives the ticket-buyer a chance to win a 2017 Ford F-150, or $10,000, plus daily prizes during the tournament. Check out the details here.
GOLF BALL & CHARITY AUCTION
Sponsored by Copy Products Inc. and University Plaza, this event is on Tuesday, August 8 at University Plaza Convention Center. We’ll also have electronic bidding at bidpal.net! Register at this link.
THE ULTIMATE presented by Custom Metalcraft & Ridewell Suspensions
Win a 2017 Corvette Stingray, as a $1,200 buy-in guarantees a 1-in-100 chance of winning the car and a 1-in-10 chance of winning $1,000. You’ll also receive many other perks, including air-conditioned seating on the 18th green during the PCCC along with clubhouse parking, a luxurious dinner on Friday, August 4 at Highland Springs Country Club as well as breakfast and lunch in the clubhouse daily during the PCCC, plus his and her shirts.
FOR ANY SPONSORSHIP, CALL 417-887-3400