A wonderful brunch kicked off the 3rd Annual Golfing for Inclusion co-hosted by National Inclusion Project co-founder Clay Aiken and PGA Professional Wayne Player on February 1, 2010 at The Country Club at Mirasol. The rain showers forced Wayne’s scheduled golf clinic indoors where he shared golf tips and stories with those in attendance.

The weather continued to be wet, so while golfers were given the option to play, other choices were also available: working one on one with Wayne on your swing, having a video analysis of your swing in the Pro Shop, playing Poker and even sitting down with Clay for a chat.  Most foursomes chose to try and play at least a few holes on Mirasol’s beautiful Sunset course.    After a quick review of the day’s rules everyone headed out on a shotgun start with a scramble format.   As the showers turned into a steady soaking rain, all the foursomes, except one, decided to call it a day. That one group amazingly completed the entire 18 holes in the pouring rain.

After drying off, some golfers talked golf with Wayne, others played some poker, and all got ready for the evening’s festivities. Soon the dinner guests arrived, and the evening kicked off. The silent auction items were on display for everyone to see.   Golf items, trips, jewelry and more were available for all to bid on.

The National Inclusion Project’s Executive Director Jerry Aiken got things started by welcoming everyone to the event.   What would have been the event’s golf awards became raffle items available for all the golfers.  Jerry, along with Wayne, handed out Master’s flags or signed photos of Jack Nicklaus to the lucky winners.

After the wonderful dinner buffet, the evening’s program continued. Co-Founders Clay Aiken and Diane Bubel both spoke about the National Inclusion Project’s accomplishments and their hope for the future: a time when inclusion is a reality for all children.

Clay and Diane were followed in the program by the announcement and presentation of the first Let’s ALL Play partner for 2010. Barbara Cage and Brady Millican, representatives from the Florida Lions Camp in Lake Wales, FL, were in attendance to confirm the partnership and to speak about the wonderful things the camp has to offer the children that are able to enjoy their time there.  Mr. Millican is on the Camp’s board and the parent of a child with special needs who continues to benefit from attending the camp.

Those in attendance next enjoyed the Project’s new awareness video: “Inclusion: What Are You Waiting For”.  The video features the story of two campers from Let’s ALL Play partners. The feelings of happiness and success not only enjoyed by the campers but their families and the camp staff as well are evident throughout the presentation.

The live auction followed and featured, amongst other things, trips to the 2010 Masters Golf Tournament, a South African adventure and a dinner for four with Clay.  Clay completed the evening with a special performance including a few songs that may be found on his upcoming new CD.   Accompanied by Ben Cohen on piano, Clay also took special requests for a donation to the Project.  Through the support of all who attended and many generous donors, the National Inclusion Project raised over $150,000 to benefit children nationwide.

Special thanks to our Title Sponsor, Allianz Life of North America; our Platinum Sponsor, American Portfolios; and the Osiris Fund for a generous donation to benefit inclusion.  To see all of our event sponsors, click here.

Thanks to Karen Meersman for recapping the event for us.