Golfers will tee it up Friday for Meals on Wheels

A lot has happened in the past 25 years at Cherokee County Meals on Wheels, with the nonprofit organization distributing fresh, hot meals to more than 9,000 elderly residents in the area.

But without the help of local donors, the program's gears would grind to a screeching halt.

"Churches, fundraising events and donors all play a part in the success of this organization," said Cherokee County Meals On Wheels Director Terry Dennis. "All funds go toward food and other expenses needed to run this program."

The local Meals on Wheels will host its annual Piedmont Golf Classic, its biggest fundraiser, at Cherokee National Golf Course on Friday. The tournament is in its 21st year.

Having only an afternoon round at the inaugural event, the Classic has through the years added a morning session.

"We began with only one round of golf during the afternoon," Dennis said. "With the success this tournament has gained over the years we were able to add more rounds and do more as an organization."

Last year's tournament attracted more than 200 local golfers. Organizers believe this year's edition will have similar numbers, helping draw the program closer to its goal of $30,000 for the event.

According to Dennis, much of that will be brought in through corporate sponsorship." A lot of the money needed will likely come from corporate sponsors, with small local businesses also helping to build funds," Dennis said. This year's tournament will also see a record number of volunteers helping golfers during the tournament.

"With so many helping out, it should be rather exciting to see how things turn out," Dennis said.

Slots for four-person teams are still available for the morning round. An entry fee of $65 per golfer or $260 per team is required. The morning session begins with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. The afternoon round begins at 1:30 p.m.

For more information, call Dennis at 864-487-2730; or log onto the agency's Web site at www.cherokeecountymow.org