The Federation of Italian-American Organizations of Brooklyn hosted its ninth annual Golf Tournament on Monday, June 26, launching a day-long fundraiser to benefit FIAO’s wide array of programs.
Approximately 75 golfers showed up to the event, which took place at Dyker Beach Golf Course. Attendees started by registering and having breakfast at around 7 a.m., with tee off happening at around 8 a.m. After 18 holes of play, the golfers enjoyed a 1:30 p.m. brunch.
“Any money we raise is extremely vital and important,” said FIAO Brooklyn President Jack Spatola, who went on to mention that the fundraiser would benefit Il Centro, an Italian-American community center located at 8711 18th Avenue in Bath Beach that is set to open in the fall.
The fundraiser also serves to benefit FIAO’s Columbus Day Parade in October, as well as the organization’s youth soccer league and community improvement initiatives, such as park cleanups and graffiti removal.
According to Spatola, the organization typically raises around $25,000 at each golf outing.
“We would love to have even greater participation next year,” said Spatola “If we go over 100 golfers and have more sponsored holes, it’ll bring even greater fundraising as we transition into opening up the center.”