#United States #community support #Benton Harbor #Whirlpool #Charity Golf

Whirlpool Community Charity Golf Event

The Whirlpool Community Charity Golf Event celebrated its 23rd year on August 2nd and 3rd, 2026, drawing in over 800 enthusiastic golfers eager to make a difference. Held across six stunning golf courses, this annual event successfully raised a remarkable sum of $3 million, benefiting local youth organizations in the heart of Southwest Michigan. With its impressive lifetime fundraising total now reaching approximately $40 million, the event has truly established itself as a cornerstone of community support.

Organized by Whirlpool Corporation, in collaboration with its suppliers and partners from around the world, the event serves as the largest fundraiser aimed at empowering youth within the community. The funds raised enable essential services for local youth, providing them with educational resources and life skills crucial for their development. According to Pam Klyn, the president of the Whirlpool Foundation, the event not only signifies financial contributions but also highlights the transformative impact it has on the lives of local students. Year after year, thousands of young individuals benefit from opportunities that help them thrive both academically and personally.

Key Beneficiaries

Among the notable beneficiaries of this year's event are:

• - Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Southwest Michigan
• - First Tee of Benton Harbor
• - Foundations of local public schools, including Benton Harbor, Lakeshore, and St. Joseph, Michigan.

Klyn remarked, “For over two decades, the Whirlpool Community Charity Golf Event has united our community to raise nearly $40 million for our youth.” She emphasized that the support manifests in tangible ways; many students acquire vital skills and have access to safe after-school programs.

This year’s event attracted a record number of participants, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing history. The players enjoyed a diverse golfing experience spanning across six local courses such as Point 'O Woods, Hawkshead, Orchard Hills, Chikaming, the Dunes Club, and Harbor Shores. Moreover, attendees had the unique opportunity to play at the new Wee Course, a specially designed 9-hole pitch-and-putt golf course by renowned Hall of Fame golfer Colin Montgomerie.

As part of the event's rich experience, a fireside chat featuring NFL Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith and Indiana University Athletic Director Scott Dolson captivated the audience. The discussion encompassed themes of perseverance and collaboration, reinforcing the event's mission to champion a brighter future for the youth in Berrien County. The anecdotes shared not only entertained but also inspired attendees to support the cause actively.

The Whirlpool Community Charity Golf Event extends its roots deep into the community, offering a platform for local residents to unite for a shared purpose: ensuring a prosperous future filled with opportunities for the next generation. The continued success of such events exemplifies Whirlpool Corporation’s unwavering commitment to community well-being, showing that together, they can significantly impact the lives of countless individuals.

In summary, the 23rd annual charity golf event was not just about golfing; it was a celebration of community, commitment, and the positive change that can arise when people come together for a common goal. Here's to another successful year and to the ongoing efforts in nurturing our youth!