Youth for Christ to hold unique fund-raiser

Staff

Published Thursday, March 30, 2006

By Nathan Cooper, staff writer

ALBERT LEA - It's not uncommon for citizens to be bombarded with bake sale items and trinkets for sale to raise money. But Albert Lea Youth for Christ isn't common.

This year will mark the its first Miniature Golf-A-Thon to raise proceeds to help Youth for Christ pay operating expenses and staff.

“It's a fund-raiser for operations to keep the doors open,” said Robin Gudal, a project coordinator.

In the past, Youth for Christ has done fund-raising with a bowl-a-thon, auctions, and rummage sales, but the organization is always looking for new fund-raising ideas.

“There are so many fund-raisers out there, and the community is extremely generous,” she said. “We tried to think of something unique and fun, and hopefully people want to try it. It's how we make a living.”

The idea arose about a year and a half ago, and the group decided to take on the challenge. Robin's husband, Greg Gudal, is the director of the organization and went to local businesses to either build or underwrite a hole on the course. The request was met with an overwhelming response and sponsors have provided 18 regulation holes and three practice greens.

There have been other miniature golf fund-raisers like this done elsewhere, but this will likely be one of the most elaborate. The golf outing hopes to have the look of a carnival, with prizes being handed out on certain holes for under-par scores. There will also be a concession stand with cotton candy, hot dogs and the like. Interested kids will have the opportunity for a free face painting.

Around 100 foursomes are expected to make their rounds on the course on April 7 and April 8 at Skyline Plaza. Because it is a fund-raiser, participants are asked to acquire are least $25 in pledges or donate the same amount. All donations go directly in the Youth for Christ general fund to help offset operating expenses. Along with their donations, participants will receive a free T-shirt.

This is one of many fund-raisers Youth for Christ must hold each year to have enough for its $270,000 budget. At first glance it may seem large, but with 12 staff members operating costs, every penny is needed. Each month around 400 youth utilize the Youth for Christ center. Snow days are big for the center, as are summer trips and camps.

“There is a great appreciation for the community's support. We spend money wisely, and it's spread pretty thin,” Robin said. Youth for Christ also values its volunteer supporters throughout the year.

People interested in donating or participating are encouraged to call 373-1015 to reserve a tee time. Organizers will try to work in walk-ins, but to ensure a preferred time slot early registration is essential.

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