The Salt River Community Children’s Foundation recently hosted its 22nd Golf Classic at the Talking Stick Golf Club for the benefit of Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community youth.

The Golf Classic is an event dedicated to providing more opportunities for Community youth and is the perfect way to give back for the holidays.

The sold-out Dec. 1 tournament started with raffles and laughter as participants waited for the 10 a.m. start. Music was provided by DJ Reflekshin. Two signed Arizona Diamondbacks jerseys were raffled off, those of legends Randy Johnson and Luis Gonzalez. Baxter the Bobcat mascot was also in attendance, bringing good vibes to all and offering to take photos with everyone. 

Miss Indian Arizona Sialik King offered a warm welcome to all. She explained how the foundation helped her and her basketball team by sponsoring them in high school. As a result, her team was able to purchase jerseys and cover registration fees. She expressed her thanks and gratitude to the foundation and all who have donated to support it. 

“Those are little things that really help our Community’s youth. [We] wouldn’t have been able to do that without their support, and all of your support,” said King.

Volunteers from the SRPMIC Social Services Department, Salt River Police Department and Information Technology Department, along with other government programs, set up booths for sharing information and goodies. 

“Collaborating with the children’s foundation feels incredibly meaningful,” said Talking Stick Golf Club Group Sales Manager Nicholas van Vuuren. “it’s partnering with people who are deeply dedicated to making a difference for kids who truly need support…It’s fulfilling to know that the work we put into the event directly contributes to real impact—supporting programs, providing resources, and creating opportunities for children.”

The Salt River Community Children’s Foundation, a nonprofit that started in 2003, aims to help children in the Community achieve their potential and give youth opportunities to succeed. 

“Seeing SRCCF’s passion, the community’s generosity, and the golfers’ enthusiasm all come together on event day is a reminder of why these partnerships matter. It’s a privilege to play a role in something that reaches beyond the course and touches lives in such a meaningful way.” van Vuuren added.

The foundation is also raising money by selling $5 wristbands for the rides at the Community’s New Year’s Eve celebration. Wristband sales are taking place at multiple locations through Dec. 31. On New Year’s Eve, a booth will be set up onsite at the celebration at the Community Building, starting at 10 a.m. until the bands are sold out. Rides open at 4 p.m.

More information about the foundation can be found on the SRPMIC website under Community Resources.