A stellar lineup and sky-high donations have made the TOUR Championship Charity Showcase a heartwarming prologue to the much-awaited PGA TOUR Championship from August 23-27 at the iconic East Lake Golf Club. The charitable exhibition, backed by The Coca-Cola Company and a host of local businesses, has raised an impressive $750,000 in support of the East Lake Foundation.
Sporting Stars and a Shared Vision
The TOUR Championship Charity Showcase showcased the talents of notable figures like Aaron Murray, former University of Georgia quarterback, Victor Cruz, a former NFL wide receiver, and Alexis Belton, a World Long Drive standout. These stars took the tee alongside local HBCU golf teams at the 15th hole, where the signature par 3 became a canvas of skill and unity.
A Community United
This charitable endeavor wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of Atlanta’s finest. The likes of Chick-fil-A, Cisco, NielsenIQ, and Novelis rallied behind the cause, affirming their commitment to a stronger community fabric. Their collective backing showcases the potency of unity, especially in times when camaraderie matters most.
Victor Cruz, Alexis Belton, and Aaron Murray
Victor Cruz, Alexis Belton, and Aaron Murray
A Story of Purpose and Impact
Alex Urban, the Executive Director of the TOUR Championship, articulated the core essence of this initiative, saying, “We’re proud to leverage our platform for positive change.” With an additional $750,000 contributed to the East Lake Foundation, it’s a testament to the tournament’s role beyond just competition—it’s an instrument of change that echoes far beyond the greens.
The Coca-Cola Company: Pioneers of Change
At the heart of this benevolent spectacle stands The Coca-Cola Company, a driving force in creating the TOUR Championship Charity Showcase in 2020. This noble undertaking emerged as a response to the challenges brought by the pandemic. John Murphy, President and Chief Financial Officer of The Coca-Cola Company, emphasized its significance: “The Charity Showcase embodies our commitment to fortify the communities we cherish.”
East Lake Golf Club
A Visionary Foundation
In 1995, the East Lake Foundation embarked on a mission to rejuvenate the East Lake neighborhood. Their holistic approach encompassed mixed-income housing, comprehensive cradle-to-college education, community wellness, and economic vibrancy. Since its inception, the partnership with the TOUR Championship has raised over $48 million for the foundation. This legacy continues to impact lives, exemplified by a record-breaking $5.5 million from the 2022 event.
A Grateful Community
Ilham Askia, President and CEO of the East Lake Foundation, expressed profound gratitude for the TOUR Championship, its esteemed partners, and the supporting organizations. “Their unwavering support propels our mission to empower every member of our community to flourish,” said Askia, encapsulating the sentiment at the heart of this charitable endeavor.
As the TOUR Championship Charity Showcase lights up the path toward a better future for the East Lake community, it also underscores the enduring connection between sport, unity, and transformative change.
