This week, Lisa Ewers (Giant Steps’ Major Gifts Director) and myself had the opportunity to give back and volunteer our time to Rich Harvest Farms (RHF), whom hosted the 102nd Western Junior Golf Tournament. We jump at the chance to show our appreciation and gratitude for all that Mr. Jerry Rich does for our organization.
“I truly feel honored to be able to help support (volunteer) for RHF and the Western Jr. Golf Tournament; it was a powerful means of giving back to the individuals that support us on a daily basis. I believe volunteering at RHF strengthened the community and provided a deeper connection between Giant Steps and RHF as we worked side by side toward a common goal.”
Lisa Ewers, Giant Steps’ Major Gifts Director
Mr. Jerry Rich, who is the proprietor of Rich Harvest Farms world-class golf course that sits on his 1,800 acre estate in Sugar Grove, IL has been so very gracious to the Giant Steps organization.
Our Canopy Adult Day Program currently operates Monday through Friday at 264 Main Street in Sugar Grove, IL, which is approximately five miles from RHF’s estate. This location allows adult participants to enjoy the resources of the RHF’s estate, such as equine therapy (Christine’s Dream) at the stables, golfing, fishing, hiking, gardening, plus community activities in Sugar Grove.
Mr. Jerry Rich is excited to see the program expand and often stops in to visit with the young adults, inquiring about their day’s activities, from golf lessons to community outings. That personal engagement, along with the Rich family’s involvement and generosity are the bedrocks of growing Canopy’s support for adults living with autism.
“It is such an honor to be able to give back and volunteer to RHF for all that they do for Giant Steps our therapeutic Day School and Canopy our Adult Day Program. It was so exciting being involved with such a prestigious golf tournament and furthermore, it being held at RHF. The course is beyond beautiful and the young men are so talented. I am eager for the next opportunity to volunteer!”
Lindsey Nichols, Giant Steps’ Development Associate
The Western Junior Golf Tournament hosted a 156 of the world’s most talented young golfers. The Western Junior has served as a proven building block for future PGA Tour stars. In fact, Rickie Fowler, Hunter Mahan and Jim Furyk were past champions of the tournament. Other well known golfers whom have competed in the Western Junior are Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and Matt Kuchar.
Piercen Hunt of Hartland, Wisconsin was this year’s winner of the Western Junior Golf Tournament.