In a new fundraising effort this year, Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA) will host a charity golf tournament in Billings, Montana, this September. The tournament will benefit Care Camps, a non-profit that helps send children affected by cancer and their families to oncology summer camps.
The “Fore the Kids” Golf Tournament will be at The Briarwood Country Club on Sept. 12. The tournament will feature interactive holes designed to mimic activities kids might enjoy at summer camp.
“It is exciting to bring awareness of Care Camps to the Billings area through this tournament,” said Toby O’Rourke, KOA CEO and president. “I had the unique experience of visiting Camp Braveheart, an oncology camp located near Bozeman, Montana, and seeing the impact and magic Care Camps has firsthand. The outdoors has such a positive effect on these children and their families and it’s humbling to be a part of that.”
Since 1984, KOA and its franchisees have contributed $16.9 million to Care Camps. KOA has been Care Camps’ largest donor since the organization was founded by KOA campground owners 38 years ago.
“Our support of Care Camps allows us to extend the healing power of the outdoors to a group that needs it most,” O’Rourke said. “Through our corporate and franchisee donations, and the generosity of our campers, we can make a real impact for kids and their families across the U.S. and Canada facing the reality of cancer.”
KOA donates a dollar from every KOA Rewards loyalty program sale to Care Camps and offers a promotional camping weekend in May providing funds to the organization. Additionally, money is raised year-round at KOA’s 520 North American locations.
“KOA and its franchisees’ generosity has brought the healing power of the outdoors to countless children facing cancer and their families,” said Jennifer Mercer, Care Camps director of development. “KOA has not only been Care Camps’ largest donor, but they have also been incredible ambassadors for the cause. Thanks to KOA’s support, kids with cancer can forget about the chemo, the radiation, and all the hard stuff and just be kids again.”
