Dow Great Lakes Bay Invitational Seeking Nonprofit Partners for #TeamUp Charitable Giveaway
The Dow Great Lakes Bay Invitational (Dow GLBI) will continue a successful charitable effort launched during last year’s inaugural LPGA tournament. The unique charity event, called #TeamUp for the Great Lakes Bay Region, pairs 33 nonprofits from around the region with professional golfers competing in the tournament.
Applications are now being accepted for the program, which is open to any 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in the Great Lakes Bay Region. Organizations must also show how their work impacts one of four focus areas outlined by the Dow GLBI: STEM, sustainability, inclusion, and innovation.
“Last year, just over $200,000 went back to local charities through this program,” said Chris Chandler, Dow GLBI executive director. “That’s in addition to some $300,000 in other charitable programs through the tournament. Thanks to the support of our sponsors and partners, these numbers are growing for 2020.”
This year, selected nonprofits will each receive a portion of a $233,500 pool of funds. While they are guaranteed a $4,500 donation, they have potential to earn more than $50,000 through other incentives, including how well their LPGA team does in the tournament.
The Dow GLBI is a team-based LPGA event with 66 two-player teams, thus each of the 33 nonprofits will be paired with two LPGA teams. Competitors who finish in the top ten can earn as much as $20,000 in additional donations for their nonprofit. Other awards include a $3,000 “closest to the pin” contest, a $5,000 “most engaged nonprofit” contest, and $3,000 to the team in first place at the end of each round of the tournament, of which there are four.
“The feedback from LPGA professionals during last year’s tournament was excellent,” said Chandler. “The best golfers in the world get the opportunity to learn more about the Great Lakes Bay Region and the issues affecting our communities. Their nonprofit teammates become instant fans, cheering them on throughout the event. There’s really no other charity program like this in professional golf.”
The Dow GLBI is working with the Midland Area Community Foundation, Bay Area Community Foundation, Saginaw Community Foundation, and Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation to manage the program. Each foundation will house and distribute the funds as well as help with the selection process. Qualified nonprofits can apply online at www.dowglbi.com/community-impact until the March 18th deadline.