Helping Local Homeless Families

When most think of the homeless, images of drifters in tattered clothing often come to mind. It is a stereotype that is not always accurate. The reality is there are homeless people around us each day. Sadly, the majority have fallen victim to a series of unfortunate events such as illness, addiction, job loss or family loss. There are many organizations in the region helping to combat the problem, and most are divided into three categories when it comes to those whom they help - men, teens, or women and children. But Family Promise of North Idaho is unique to our area as volunteers are able to keep families together through this difficult time and also help build them back up together.

Now in its fourth year, the annual Family Promise Golf/Walk event is one of three major fundraisers throughout the year. Heading up this year’s event is Randall Henry, co-owner of Henry Griffitts Golf Clubs in Coeur d’Alene. Now a board member, Randall discovered Family Promise at a charity and volunteer fair at the KROC Center and got involved with the organization shortly thereafter. “I think they do so many great things because they’re not just a shelter, but also a rehabilitation center,” said Randall. “I like that Family Promise keeps families together during their struggles, and that’s what really drew me to the organization.” Randall grew up in the golf community, watching his dad teach 30 tour pros and traveling the country with him. His passion for golf and the connections to the industry are allowing the event to take on new ideas and ultimately raise more funds that stay in the local community. “My goal is to make this the top fundraising event for Family Promise, and we’re working the connections we have to make it happen,” said Randall.

With the event moving to the resort course this year, participants will be treated to a very unique experience. There is room for 62 golfers with plans to expand to at least 100 by 2016. Cost is $150 for the event but can be offset with pledges from family, friends or business sponsors. Included are 18 holes of golf with a cart and caddie. The event is Friday, May 15 with a shotgun start time of 1pm. Teams of four will compete against each other in a scramble format with various challenges throughout the day. Randall says some new technology will be rolled out on the course this year and, while he won’t give away all of it, he did let a little bit slip. “We will have an app this year where you can track the leader board and chat with other groups on the course. There’s some other really cool changes coming too, but you’ll have to sign up to find out what they are.”

For those who consider themselves weekend hackers or haven’t ever swung a club, you can participate as well. Separate from the golf event will be a walk around the course. You’ll be able to stroll all 18 holes and take in all the sights that golfers from all over the country come to see. The walk is open to all ages and is another way you can help out this great organization. A post-event dinner will take place at the events center out at the course. Participants will have food and drinks, a presentation from Family Promise and have the opportunity to bid on silent auction items. Awards and prizes will also be given out as well as custom, locally made trophies. If you can’t make it out to the event, hole sponsorships are available as well.

Family Promise continues to give hope to local families struggling in our community. There are currently more than 100 homeless children in the Coeur d’Alene School District, and the need for a safe place is always present. Family Promise not only provides a safe haven for families, but education and counseling to help families get back on their way to self sufficiency. “It’s tough enough to be homeless let alone away from your family,” said Randall. “Watching these families work together is just awesome.” For registration information or to learn more about Family Promise of North Idaho visit www.familypromiseni.org or call 208.777.4190.

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