Golfers filled the University of Michigan Golf Course on June 22 for the 32nd Annual Golf & Glory Outing, raising more than $100,000 to support the mission of St. Louis Center. A heartfelt resident story, inspiring honorees, and an unexpected gift made the day one to remember. The hard work of committee chairman Alan Augustine and the dedicated Golf & Glory committee volunteers made the event such a great success.
Fr. Satheesh welcomed golfers and thanked them for their continued support before a beautiful day on the course. That evening, Fr. David and several residents joined participants for dinner and the program.
Two longtime supporters were recognized for their extraordinary commitment to St. Louis Center. Former LPGA champion Elaine Crosby, who has generously used her professional golf career to benefit the Center, received the John Panelli Celebrity Award. Dedicated volunteer and supporter Rich Hollo was honored with the Bill Wagner Pioneer Award.
The evening took an emotional turn when resident Jacqui P. shared her story of personal growth and independence since coming to St. Louis Center. Her remarks deeply moved the audience and set the stage for an unforgettable surprise.
Three years ago, Dale Moore attended Golf & Glory for the first time with friends Don, Ken, and Mike Nadeau, whose family’s connection to St. Louis Center spans four generations.
“I was very impressed,” Moore said. “I thought it was nice they had residents of the Center there with the golfers. You got to see where your money was going. It’s a great cause.”
Jacqui’s story created the perfect opportunity for Moore to ask the emcee if he could say a few words. Moments later, he presented St. Louis Center with a surprise check for $30,000.
“Mike and I were floored,” Don Nadeau said. “Dale never said a word to us.”
Moore, a board member of the Danish Brotherhood and its Danish Old Peoples Homes foundation, helped oversee the distribution of the organization’s remaining charitable assets as the foundation prepares to close. He chose St. Louis Center because its mission resonates deeply with his family. Moore and his wife are the parents of an adult son with autism who lives in a group home near their home, and they share the same hope as many St. Louis Center families: knowing their loved one will always receive compassionate care.
“I was so happy,” Moore said. “I think a few people stood up and started applauding. It makes your heart feel good. I was so happy to do it.”
Golf & Glory is more than a day on the course. It brings together generous people whose compassion and support create life-changing opportunities for the residents of St. Louis Center.
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