It doesn't have the name recognition or vast donor base as better-known nonprofits, and that's OK. Watermark for Kids is a niche nonprofit organization, dedicated to helping underserved kids thrive.
When talented kids have big dreams and their parents or guardians have small wallets, Watermark for Kids helps bridge the gap.
To raise money for the program, Watermark for Kids is holding a golf tournament on Oct. 14 at Omni Tucson National Golf Club.
The nonprofit is a project of Tucson-based Watermark Retirement Communities, which has retirement communities nationwide. The Fountains at La Cholla, 2001 W. Rudasill Road, is a Watermark community.
Here's an example of how Watermark helps kids: Very few seventh-graders get to travel to our nation's capital to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and compete at the National History Day competition. Thanks to Watermark for Kids, Jacob from Tucson did just that.
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His Watermark for Kids coach, Jessica Howell, believes the experience will help Jacob thrive as a leader and become a mentor for other junior high school students.
Watermark for Kids is making a difference in the lives of some very deserving kids during tough economic times. The average award is between $500 and $1,000.
"To be considered to become a Watermark Kid, children must be nominated by a teacher, a coach or other adult mentor; they must express in writing why they feel they deserve the award; and, most importantly, how they will 'pay forward' the gesture through a project of their own design," said C. Jill Hofer, executive director of Watermark for Kids.
Money for Watermark for Kids is raised in small amounts through bake sales, car washes, calendar sales and other special events that take place at Watermark retirement communities throughout the United States.
"Residents and associates of 27 Watermark communities nationwide have embraced Watermark for Kids as a fun and creative way to make a meaningful difference in the lives of some very special young people," Hofer said.
However, "Funds raised locally stay local to help underserved kids in those areas thrive."
Watermark Kids have returned to give performances, teach classes and give speeches about their experiences.
"Seeing how their 'investment' is paying off is a big point of pride for many of our donors. There is also a wonderful intergenerational connection that develops," Hofer said.
If you go
• What: Watermark for Kids golf tournament
• When: Oct. 14
• Where: Omni Tucson National Golf Club, 2727 W. Club Drive
• Etc.: The tournament is accepting players, sponsors and raffle prizes. To register for the tournament or to learn more about Watermark for Kids, go to www.WatermarkforKids.org online
• Contact: For more information, call Jill Hofer at 797-4000, Ext. 26
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