What do you bring to a nice day on the golf course? For Area Sales Managers (ASMs) Brian and Tyler, it wasn’t just cool clothes, golf gear, and smiles – they also prepared a novel fundraising strategy that would raise over two thousand dollars by asking teams to “Pay It Forward”.
![The 5th tee, sponsored by APHW](/sites/default/files/inline-images/ASM%20Golf%20Special%20Olympics_WEB1.jpg)
How “Paying It Forward” paid off
At the hole sponsored by America’s Preferred Home Warranty (APHW), teams could choose to “Pay It Forward” by donating increasing amounts for a better chance at a hole-in-one. As Brian shared, “Sometimes you have good ideas, and this was one of them. The golfers were very responsive, and we got a lot of comments about how much they liked the idea!”
Not only did participants think it was an awesome idea, it was an easy conversation starter. Guests shared how much they enjoyed such an approachable way to be a part of something bigger than themselves – so much so, Brian and Tyler raised $2,130 for the Special Olympics!!
Tyler stated, “I thought it would be so cool to hit a thousand, and we ended up doubling that plus more.” Not only that, but the money raised from “Pay It Forward” helped the hosting organization beat their previous record of $58,000 with this year’s total of $62,760!
Presenting their earnings at the dinner that night was, as Tyler described it, “a big moment that brought some attendees to tears.” Brian said, “ The leadership of the organization was blown away at how much money we handed them. We were hoping it would help them set a new record for money raised; it was great!”
![Tyler James and his brother, Corey taken between 2000 and 2015](/sites/default/files/inline-images/ASM%20Golf%20Special%20Olympics_WEB2.jpeg)
A cause close to the heart
Though the golf attendees were motivated by friendly competition for a good cause, this fundraiser had an even deeper meaning for Tyler. “Special Olympics are near and dear to my heart,” Tyler expressed, continuing, “My brother, Corey, has Down Syndrome, and he’s played in the Special Olympics, in long-distance throwing and track.” You never know who you get to help when you contribute to charity!
No matter your score, it’s always a win when you can utilize your resources to help others. Keep an eye out for the chance to “Pay It Forward” at a golf outing near you!