The 99th PGA Championship was held at the Quail Hollow Club this year, the first time it has been played in Charlotte since its inception in 1916. So, when Levy Restaurants approached the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) to volunteer at the tournament and earn money for the League, the answer was easy. Due to the change in the Provisional curriculum this course year, the PGA Tournament provided a great opportunity for the new members to jump straight into volunteering in our community and promoting the league, all while fundraising for the JLC.
For many members, this was their first experience representing the JLC in the Charlotte community. Provisional Amanda Cuthbertson said, “Volunteering at the PGA Tournament was my first event as a Provisional member of the Junior League of Charlotte. I knew no one on my shift and wasn’t sure what to expect, but I could not have had a better experience! I had the pleasure of working with a bright, energetic, and friendly group of ladies and we all worked together so well. I left feeling empowered, grateful, and excited about this amazing organization and its members!”
Overall, 135 ladies volunteered for eight hour shifts over a four-day period, racking up a total of more than 1,000 volunteer hours. They spent their time at the Wanamaker Tent, running food preparation and delivery, manning cash registers, and providing overall hospitality for tournament-goers. “I had an amazing time volunteering at the PGA with the Junior League. It was humbling to be a part of a group that worked so hard and always had a smile on their faces, even if we did get there at 6 a.m.!” said Krystal Parr. But those long hours were worth it – the Junior League of Charlotte is expected to earn more than $8,000 from Levy Restaurants and the PGA for their hard work.
The JLC volunteers represented the entire League with class and professionalism for Charlotteans and visitors alike. They were dependable volunteers for the Levy/PGA staff and were respectful to all customers that were there for the golf tournament. Murray Corbett said, “I enjoyed volunteering for the PGA Championship with the Junior League because it gave me an opportunity to get involved in my community while supporting my favorite hobby and charity at the same time.” Thanks to all the JLC members who volunteered their time at this year’s PGA Tournament at Quail Hollow Club – helping spread awareness of the JLC and its mission. The funding that will come from their hard work and dedication will continue the League’s mission to promote voluntarism, develop leaders and improve the community.
Written by Maeghan Pawley