We all know that our youth are our community’s future. For them to reach their full potential, they need loving families, mentors, and role models who inspire, motivate, and encourage them to be all that they can be. We must be intentional about providing access to mentors and role models that will guide them to opportunities to build their academic ability and provide experiences for them to grow and build their character.

This is especially true for our most vulnerable children of color, who are statistically less likely to be prepared academically and are less likely to become the future leaders that our communities desperately need. Youth with strong character and those who are academically prepared help build stronger and more vibrant communities.

Barriers between cultures and groups in our community continue to hold us back. We are void of true opportunities to invite diverse groups to be immersed in each other’s cultures. We need opportunities to network, build connections, and friendships and break down these barriers to inclusivity and growth.

The Fulfilling the Dream Celebrity Open has been established to directly address both needs. The Open, inspired by Wayman Britt and business leaders throughout West Michigan will be held on September 27, 2021, at the breathtaking Egypt Valley Country Club. The Open will involve PGA Professionals, local and national celebrities, and the best food, games and fun that can be had on a golf course.

Local minority-owned businesses will be highlighted on the course, lending opportunities for networking and awareness. The event culminates with even more of our community being included in a reception, dinner, awards, and keynote address. The Open serves as a community building event for our African American community, one that not only impacts the African American community, but invites in all members of our community to celebrate, partner with, lift up, and engage in an amazing culture.

Proceeds from the Open will help increase the capacity of youth serving organizations that are dedicated to our most venerable children of color. Benefiting organizations are dedicated to these youth so they may enjoy equal access to mentors and role models that will help to ensure their growth and development as future leaders. This increase leads a to stronger and more vibrant community. Further, the Open will bring together multiple mentoring organizations to collaborate within a common vision, so that more youth can be served and our community benefits even faster, at greater scale, and more efficiently.

We would like to discuss your specific involvement in the Open. Your involvement will directly impact kids, and our entire community well beyond the event. Come play a great game that will change the game in our community.