CINCINNATI, Ohio (July 2, 2021) - June 14 was not only Flag Day, it also was a great day to be on the fairway. The greens were pristine at Shaker Run Golf Club in Lebanon, which hosted UWGC Middletown Area’s annual Golf Outing. The event raised an estimated $15,000 to help UWGC reach its 2021 campaign goal.

Chandra Mathews-Smith, UWGC’s Chief Community Engagement Officer, welcomed 120 golfers on 30 teams. “On behalf of the community that was hurting prior to the pandemic, who are now on even shakier ground, thank you for your support today,” she said. “We are actively working with families and community partners to ensure that all families have financial stability and that they are able to get their health care needs met. We’re working with workforce innovation centers, and we’re working on basic needs.”

That message resonated with the golfers.

“Every time you’re helping folks, regardless of the event, it’s good to give back to the community and to give back to people,” said Robert Hicks, a veteran of United Way golf fundraisers around the state.

Jordan Castel, who was participating in the event for the first time, pointed to United Way’s broad reach in the communities it serves. “It’s a great way to be able to extend your reach from a support perspective and help a lot of different causes and a lot of people in need.”

The event was a four-person scramble, a format that made it possible for golfers of all abilities to contribute to their team’s success.

“It’s a great tournament,” said Kelly Moore, a longtime United Way supporter who participates in the golf outing every year. “It’s always fun.”

Terry Sherrer, director of UWGC’s Middletown office, jokingly took credit for the sunny skies and gentle breeze. For nearly a decade, he has been the chief organizer, leveraging his relationships in the community to secure sponsorships and ensure the event’s success. Sherrer and UWGC associate T.J. Geise planned the 2021 event and were assisted at the outing by eight UWGC staffers from the main office.

The event received support from a dozen sponsors. Lunch and dinner were provided, and several participants went home with prizes.

Participant David Bond summed up the day: “It’s a nice event. Nice golf course. And it’s for a good cause.”