"Volunteers are the heart and soul of The Greenbrier Classic," said owner and Tournament Chairman Jim Justice. "We are extremely proud of the more than 1,400 individuals each year who donate their time to the tournament. They play an essential role in every aspect of the event and are vital to our goal of raising charitable donations within the community."
For 2014, the designated charities are: Center in the Square, Mountaineer Autism Project (MAP) and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Blue Ridge Chapter. All tournament volunteers were provided an opportunity to vote for these charities. The group receiving the most votes is provided 70% of the fund, the second most votes 20% and the final charity 10%. A representative from each organization was on-hand during tournament week to explain their respective charities to the volunteers.
MAP received the most votes and the 70% payout of $4,516. MAP is a nonprofit organization of parents of children with autism and professionals in the autism field. MAP's goal is to have one voice in West Virginia dedicated to early autism detection, diagnosis, and early intensive behavioral intervention. For more information about MAP, including ways to donate, visit www.mountaineerautismproject.org.
The 20% disbursement of $1,290 went to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Blue Ridge Chapter. The Blue Ridge Chapter works to raise funds for critical MS research and to improve the quality of life for people affected by MS in western Virginia, the state of West Virginia and seven counties in Kentucky. Visit www.nationalmssociety.org for donation information.
Center in the Square, a unique home for regional arts and cultural organizations, which creates and drives opportunities that enhance education, economic development and quality of life, received a check for $645. For donation and general information about Center in the Square, visit www.centerinthesquare.org.
ABOUT THE GREENBRIER:
Located in White Sulphur Springs in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia, The Greenbrier has been welcoming guests since 1778. Known as "America's Resort," it encompasses more than 10,000 acres of undulating landscape that includes: five championship golf courses (including the exclusive Greenbrier Sporting Club's private course); a championship indoor and outdoor tennis facility (including five outdoor clay courts and five indoor courts); a mélange of sporting activities; shops; private homes at The Greenbrier Sporting Club; and, at its heart, a vast and imposing grand hotel. Purchased in 2009 by West Virginia entrepreneur James C. Justice II, The Greenbrier has undergone a $250+ million restoration and is now home to The Greenbrier Classic, a PGA TOUR, FedExCup event, and will soon launch The Greenbrier Medical Institute, a state-of-the-art medical complex on the resort's grounds.