The Wee One Foundation sent its millionth dollar to help a family in need in Ohio earlier this week. The foundation has been in existence since 2004, when the foundation’s namesake, superintendent Wayne Otto, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Friends of Otto in the golf maintenance industry raised funds to help offset his medical expenses. Otto succumbed to the disease, however his vigor for life lives on, as the foundation formed to share his spirit and help others that have become ill and suffer because of medical hardship.
The foundation assists golf course management professionals and their dependents who incur overwhelming expenses due to medical hardship without comprehensive insurance or adequate financial resources. The foundation raises funds through golf events, auctions, direct gifts, annual contributions and purchasing programs.
Each September the Foundation hosts its anchor event at Pine Hills Country Club in
Sheboygan, Wis. “The mission of the Wee One is like no other in our industry and our growth shows there is a continued need for help,” said Rod Johnson, superintendent of Pine Hills and current president of the foundation. To date, the foundation has helped over 80 families in 23 different states.
When families are struck with illness, work schedules are often impacted and expenses compound quickly. The foundation helps to alleviate the associated stress so individuals can focus on healing and their health.
“I don’t know where I’d be without the Wee One Foundation,” said a recent recipient of the funds. “My initial disability application has been denied and I can no longer work full-time. It is hard to put into words what the gift from the Wee One Foundation has meant for my family and me. Thank you, thank you. When I’m back on my feet, I want to help the Foundation help others. It has been such a comfort.”
There are more than 12 events held each year that generate funds for the foundation. Through its network of valued volunteers, the foundation continues to add new events each year as the golf course industry comes together to aid those in need.
The foundation has started an endowment fund to preserve and ensure its mission will continue and increase its scope in the future. In the meantime, the foundation will continue to raise and distribute funds for those in need.
