BENNINGTON, Vt. — The golf tournament fundraiser hosted by Coggins Auto Group returns for its second year with even more ambition, and this year they will support Bennington County Child Advocacy Center.

 

"When you improve the quality of life, become more self-sustainable as a community, and make connections bringing the community together, that creates stability which is a critical factor that contributes to a business's ability to survive whether you've been here for 20 years or 20 days," said Coggins Auto Group Marketing Director Valerie Harrington.

 

The tournament will be held at Mount Anthony Country Club on Tuesday, Aug. 29.

 

The tournament raised more than $23,000 last year for the Sunrise Family Resource Center. This year, the hope is to raise even more.

 

"We already have more teams signed up than last year, which we are very excited about," Harrington said.

 

This year Bennington County Child Advocacy Center will be the beneficiary. They were chosen from a slate of community organizations, Harrington said. 

 

"After receiving 27 submissions from local non-profits and charities, we narrowed down to three and had the community vote on who the beneficiary should be for this year's tournament," she said. "We had over 800 votes in the final poll."

 

The goal is to raise at least $10,000, which triggers the Toyota Match Program to double it to $20,000. From there, Harrington said, they hope to raise as much as possible. 

 

Check-ins start at 10 a.m. and teams tee off at 11. Participants can purchase mulligans, raffle tickets, and 50/50 tickets and collect complimentary goody bags at this point at check-in and, later, a barbecue lunch. 

 

There will also be a putting contest until 10:50 a.m. in which the winner will receive a prize from Berkshire Graphics. 

 

Teams should wrap up between 3-4 p.m. At this time, prizes will be awarded.

 

More raffles and 50/50 tickets can be purchased at this time and hors d'oeuvres will be served.

 

Nongolfers can still support the cause and attend a concert with country singer Carly Rogers from 4 to 6 p.m.

 

Tickets for her live performance are $30 per person, which includes the performance, hors d'oeuvres and access to purchase raffle and 50/50 tickets. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time online using this link but cash will be accepted at the door.

 

Coggins is still looking for in-kind donations for player prizes and raffle items.

 

"Every bit helps. No matter the item(s) large or small, we will be creating baskets with the multiple donations we've received," Harrington said. "Great way to get your business out there! Your in-kind donation can be used as a tax write-off."

 

Contact Harrington to donate at vharrington@cogginsauto.com or 802-681-0136.

 

Harrington said participants can signup online. 

 

"A really fun way to support a local organization and network with other professionals and community members," she said. "We have great prizes and raffle items. The food is amazing, plus live entertainment to wrap up the evening."