BECKLEY, WV (WOAY) – Local nonprofits are feeling the effect of canceled and postponed fundraising events due to COVID-19. But despite the pandemic, a lot of happy golfers came out to support the United Way golf fundraiser today. The United Way held its first ‘Safe and Social Golf Scramble’ at Black Knight Country Club.
“It’s just a way for us to get our community out there and involved in a safe way right now, given our world circumstances and just a fun way to raise money for the United Way,” said United Way Executive Director Meagan Legursky.
Legursky says a golfing event was the perfect place to get people together and, at the same time, be able to practice social distancing.
“Everybody wants to be out right now, we’re getting out there and socialize but keep it safe. So I have heard golf is crowded so I wanted to jump on the opportunity to turn that into a fundraising opportunity for the United Way. We had 20 teams sign up, so it was very well taken for my understanding,” said Legursky.
Even though Southern West Virginia is slowly opening back up, events and large gatherings are still a high concern.
“We’re trying to take as many precautions as we can. We are only allowing a certain amount of people on charts unless their related or living together. We got our hand sanitizer disbursed so I mean everyone from my understanding seems comfortable, excited to help support our United Way,” said Legursky.
The United Way, along with other nonprofits, has taken a substantial economic hit during this crisis.
“Every 99 cent to every dollar stays right here in Southern West Virginia, so that’s our goal today,” said Legursky.
The last United Way golfing event was held in 2015.
