Thank You, Seminole County Chamber Members: Second Annual J. Douglas Williams YMCA Golf Classic Drives Community Impact

On March 23rd, the Second Annual J. Douglas Williams YMCA Golf Classic brought together community leaders, businesses, and supporters for a memorable day at Heathrow Country Club. With beautiful weather, great camaraderie, and a shared commitment to strengthening the community, the event proved both enjoyable and impactful—raising an impressive $48,000!  These funds go directly towards our scholarship program so ALL families in our community have the opportunity to participate in summer camp, swim lessons, and so much more.

Golfers took to the course for a day of friendly competition, highlighted by an exciting hole-in-one opportunity and a chance to win a two-year car lease courtesy of Parks Lincoln. The energy carried through to the luncheon that followed, where WESH 2 news anchor Meredith McDonough served as emcee. Tim McGaffic, J. Douglas Williams, YMCA Board President, delivered an inspiring message that emphasized that supporting the YMCA can take many forms. From coaching youth sports and serving on the board to volunteering at events or making financial contributions, every effort plays a vital role in sustaining the YMCA’s mission. He highlighted the organization’s broad impact—from teaching lifesaving swim skills, offering summer camps, keeping teens engaged in after-school programs and youth sports, supporting individuals going through cancer and cancer survivors, providing senior fitness programs, teen leadership development, and family wellness initiatives. These programs would not be possible without the generous support of Seminole County Chamber members and community partners.

John Williams, from the Williams Family Foundation, also shared heartfelt remarks, emphasizing the meaningful role the YMCA has played in his family’s life and the lasting impact it continues to have today. He shared that this deep personal connection is why the Foundation chose to serve as the Presenting Sponsor for the golf tournament in its inaugural year and again this year, highlighting the importance of aligning with organizations that truly make a difference in the community. He spoke about the powerful ways the Y strengthens individuals and families, and how its programs create lasting, meaningful change across the local community.

The event’s success was driven by strong community involvement. The YMCA extends a special thank you to 

Chamber Member Partners:

 Snedaker Law (Ball Sponsor) and Pierce Custom Jewelers (Breakfast Sponsor).

We also appreciate our Hole Sponsors: 

Primera Specialty Infusion, Golden Legacy Financial, One Oak Reality Corp-Mary Gustafson, Sonta Lake Mary, Inca Electric, and GSJ Services. 

In addition to sponsorships, generous donations from Chamber businesses fueled a highly successful silent auction, raising over $8,000.  

Silent Auction Contributors included: 

GJS Services, Primera Specialty Infusion, St. John’s Rivership Company, Boca Restaurant- Lake Mary, Valhallan eSports Training-Wekiva Springs, Focal Point Coaching, B Physical Therapy, Little Bright Bird, Alive Ozone Therapy, Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza-Lake Mary, Clean Eatz-Lake Mary, Risell Mobile Detailing, Spectrum Reach, Color Me Mine, Cool Today, Orlando City & Orlando Pride Soccer, Keller Williams Advantage Realty – Deborah Morris Home Team, and Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream- Lake Mary.  The funds raised by the silent auction will help to further the YMCA’s mission of building a stronger, healthier community. 

The Second Annual Golf Classic not only exceeded fundraising goals but also reinforced the power of community partnerships. With continued support from Seminole County Chamber members and beyond, the J. Douglas Williams YMCA remains committed to creating opportunities for individuals and families to learn, grow, and thrive.

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