The Sparky American Bank Foundation Charity Golf Tournament will be held Thursday at Green Lea Golf Course in Albert Lea.

The Sparky Tournament, now in its 31st year, is hosted by the American Bank Foundation, the charitable arm of American Bank. Because all tournament expenses are underwritten by the bank, 100 percent of the proceeds are able to directly affect local charities. Last year, more than $17,000 was raised at the tournament.

The mission of the American Bank Foundation is to support efforts that assist in the creation of affordable housing, jobs for disabled adults in the workforce and assist in creating positive learning experience for children at risk.

In 2005, the Foundation donated $15,000 to Arc Freeborn County. The organization advocates for and supports people of all ages with mental disabilities. They host get-togethers, after-school programs and summer activities. Arc also sends athletes to compete in the Special Olympics.

&8220;Funds help us provide camperships, an open activity room, parties for young children and their families, and monthly dances and special activities,&8221; said Jo Lowe, Director of Arc Freeborn County. &8220;From infants to senior citizens, proceeds from this tournament provide opportunities for broadening horizons, building friendships, learning new skills, developing athletic abilities, and increasing self-confidence.&8221;

Tournament proceeds were also presented to Freeborn Mower Habitat for Humanity, whose mission is to build simple, decent, affordable housing for people in need in local communities.

Habitat uses as much donated material and volunteer labor as possible. The homes built by Habitat volunteers are sold at no profit and no interest to juveniles who would otherwise not be able to afford home ownership.

Funds were also distributed to the Albert Lea Education Foundation, United Way of Freeborn County and Alden-Conger and Glenville-Emmons School Districts.

In total, $22,500 was donated to local charities last year.

&8220;This county shares a long tradition of generosity and service. It’s only with the support and dedication of our communities that this tournament is successful,&8221; said Jim Siegel, president of American Bank in Albert Lea. “Thanks to all those who supported this tournament in the past, and we ask for your continued partnership this year.”

The tournament begins at 12:30 p.m. with 26 teams competing in the best shot format.