The Ben Kruse 18 FORE Life Charity Golf Event will be held Friday and Saturday as the organization works toward a goal of providing $3 million in assistance to area cancer patients and their families.
The homegrown effort has distributed more than $2.2 million since its start in 2000, every dollar to someone in need in Southeast Missouri, according to organizer Scott Kruse.
Seeing how great the need is, the group hopes to reach its next milestone before the 20th anniversary.
"We appreciate all the help. Any amount, it all adds up. It all goes to families fighting cancer. There's no strings attached," said Kruse. "We're a faith-based organization and we send them help and encouragement."
Families receive $1,000 "love offerings," from 18 FORE Life to help with whatever needs they may have.
The group sent out $276,000 in the past year, Kruse said.
The golf event that is at the core of their efforts started in 1999.
This year's event will begin with a banquet, that starts at 6 p.m. Friday at the Dexter Elks Lodge. Tickets are $30.
About 500 people are expected to attend the evening event, Kruse said.
The family of the late Adam Pixley will speak during the banquet. Pixley, a Dexter native, recently lost a three-year battle against cancer.
The keynote speaker will be John O'Leary of St. Louis, who endured devastating burns to a large portion of his body as a child and now talks about the will it takes to overcome adversity.
A silent auction will also be held.
Spaces are still available for golf teams, with around 80 already signed up, Kruse said. Times of 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday are available. The event will be at Hidden Trails Country Club. Cost is $500 per team.
People come home to Dexter from around the country for this event, Kruse said. As many as 21 states have been represented at previous events.
Donations can also be made by contacting Kruse at 573-614-0503, online at www.18forelife.com, and by mail to 705 Laurie Circle, Dexter, MO 63841.