The 25th Annual Paul Sands Memorial Slaw Dog Invitational raised $106,000 for three non-profit organizations in Southwest Florida. What started on a whim as two close friends reflected on the upcoming holidays after a round of golf, has grown into one of the most highly anticipated annual charity golf tournaments. The 25th Annual Paul Sands Memorial Slaw Dog Invitational was held on Wednesday, December 15, 2021 at the Cypress Lake Golf Club (CLGC). Organizers hoped to raise more money through event sponsorships this year to support local nonprofits.
Co-creator Scott Fischer often reflects on the day just over 25 years ago when he and Paul Sands sat on the porch at CLGC to share their passion for giving, golf, good friends and slaw dogs.
A beautiful day for the 25th Annual Paul Sands Memorial Slaw Dog Invitational
“Here we are 25 years later and it’s still going strong,” Fischer said.
The first Slaw Dog Invitational raised $5,000, and in 2020, it raised a record $72,500. Fischer hoped the event could raise at least $100,000 in its 25th year.
The tournament sells out each year. In fact, as some golfers have aged out over the years, their adult children quickly claim the coveted spot to play in the Slaw Dog Invitational.
“Players love getting a day out of the office to celebrate the holidays and celebrate the life and memory of their dear friend Paul Sands, all while helping local youth in need,” Fischer said.
Generous donations have helped to surpass the event’s annual fundraising goal of $20,000. In 2021, Dave Veracka of Rockstar Harley-Davidson pledged to match up to $50,000 in donations. Thanks to this generosity, the 25th Annual Paul Sands Memorial Slaw Dog Invitational is now the most successful in this event’s history.
For more information about the 25th Annual Paul Sands Memorial Slaw Dog Invitational and the tentative 2022 date, please visit the Slaw Dog Invitational on Facebook.
