Des Moines, IOWA (September 13, 2016) – In just one month more than $53,000 was raised to benefit United Way of Central Iowa’s (UWCI) READ to SUCCEED program. The sizeable donation was officially presented today by Des Moines Golf and Country Club (DMGCC) at the youth reading proficiency program’s Day of Action at King Elementary School in Des Moines.

“Today more than 4,000 volunteers are turning out at schools across central Iowa to inspire love of reading in Iowa’s students,” said Melanie Campbell, United Way of Central Iowa’s Chief Donor Engagement Officer. “Such efforts are made more powerful by the generous donations of groups like the Des Moines Golf and Country Club. We are so grateful for their commitment to giving back to the community.”

The $53,721.40 donation was collected through a strategic partnership between DMGCC and the 2017 Solheim Cup. During the month of August DMGCC committed to donating to READ to SUCCEED one dollar for every dollar spent on tickets to the LPGA’s most prestigious tournament which will be hosted at Des Moines Golf and Country Club in August 2017.

Solheim Cup board chair and DMGCC member Suku Radia said, “When we lured the global golf tournament to Iowa the club committed to using the Solheim Cup for the benefit of the entire community. The tournament will not only bring significant tourism dollars to our local economy, but also give central Iowa kids a brighter future.”

“Our members come from all backgrounds and have varying life experiences. But the one thing we all know and understand is the value of a quality education,” said Doug Ecklund, DMGCC Board President. “We are giving to READ to SUCCEED because we understand how reading leads to learning and understanding.”

READ to SUCCEED has a unique focus on early childhood literacy. From kindergarten through the end of third grade, students learn to read. After that, they must be able to read to learn. Unfortunately, right now 21.7% of central Iowa students are not reading proficiently by the end of third grade. But this United Way program is working to reduce that number by putting books in the hands of kids who would otherwise not have access to them and facilitate one-on-one reading opportunities for kids who deserve additional support.

Des Moines Golf and Country Club makes $53,000 donation at READ to SUCCEED’s Day of Action

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