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Fall Fling
Disc golf benefits Adult Day Connection
What could be better than a Sunday afternoon in the park, getting exercise, fresh air, spending time with friends and meeting new people? Amy Byergo, director of the Adult Day Connection (ADC), has the answer: doing all this for charity.
Photos by Amy Byergo
A total of 37 golfers participated in the first Disc Golf Tournament Nov. 1 to benefit the Adult Day Connection. The tournament raised over $1,000 for the center.
Venturing away from traditional fundraisers, Byergo hosted the first Charity Disc Golf Tournament to benefit the ADC Sunday, November 1, 2009. An energetic field of 37 golfers participated in the tournament, raising over $1,000 for the center.
“It was a perfect day and the golfers had the time of their life,” Byergo says. “In fact, some of them said it was the best disc golf tournament they had ever played. We’re very happy with the turnout and the outcome!”
The ADC offers those who need care assistance the opportunity to avoid nursing homes and remain in the care of family members while freeing part of the caregivers’ time responsibilities. Using a physical fitness activity to raise money is appropriate as ADC participants enjoy daily exercise programs. Playing Frisbee golf with foam discs is a fun activity with good coordination benefits.
Students in the School of Health Professions were encouraged to participate in the tournament as they play an important role in serving the ADC. Approximately 40 to 50 health professions students log 4000 volunteer hours each year at the two ADC sites—in Clark Hall and on Bluff Creek Drive in the lower level of the Alzheimer’s Association building.
“When students volunteer, we try to include them in activities that apply to their career path,” says Byergo. “For example, if an occupational therapy student volunteers, we may have that student participate in the exercise program, which would be similar to what he or she would be doing later on.” The funds raised will primarily go towards scholarships for those attending ADC.
The event took place at Columbia’s Albert Oakland Park.
— Marla Davison
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ADC participant Shirley Richards flips a foam Frisbee during exercise time. Playing with foam Frisbees helps the participants enjoy a safe fitness activity.
Page last updated on: November 2, 2009
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