It was golf by day and dinner at sunset for the Goodwill Invitational at Pelican Hill Golf Club in Newport Coast. The day began as 140 golfers played in a scramble-format golf tournament. Later, an outdoor silent auction, dinner and live auction raised $152,000 to support Goodwill of Orange County’s Enduring Independence Program and the Tierney Center for Veterans Services.
A highlight of the evening was the news that Goodwill of Orange County has received a $1.6 million grant from America’s Warrior Partnership Community Integration. The program supports groups that provide mentoring, financial support and other services for veterans.
“This model is based on treating veterans holistically and ensuring their successful transition back into civilian life,” said Jim Lorraine, president and CEO of AWP.
Former Marine Cpl. Andrew Ellis shared the story of his successful transition from the front lines of Afghanistan to civilian life as evidence of the program’s effect. Now the outreach coordinator for Goodwill, Ellis in turn works with veterans in Orange County.
