This summer the St. Louis Arcs Leisure Services celebrated 30 years of its highly popular golf program. The program began in 1988 at the suggestion of volunteer John Russell. John worked with Arc staff, as well as Mike Miller from Paradise Valley Golf Course to get the program up and running. Thirty years later, the program is still going strong!
With more than 800 participants over 30 years, the golf program could not have been successful without a strong team of volunteers. Within the first year of the program, John and Mike were joined by Earl “The Eagle” McCree. Earl served as the professional golf instructor for 22 years before he passed away in 2011. To recognize Earls long time support and commitment, the annual Leisure golf tournament has been named in his honor.
John Burke III and Bill Keller also began volunteering in the first year of the program, and 29 years later they continue to return each summer. For the past 20 years, Ed Carlson and Henry Hill have shared their love of the game with Arc participants. We couldnt have offered the golf program without these remarkable volunteers!
Participants in the golf program enjoy the socialization the game provides. Each Tuesday night, from May through August, participants are able to gather and catch-up with friends. Walking the course each week offers the added benefit of exercise for participants.
Thank you to Paradise Valley Golf Course, our wonderful team of volunteers, and all of the participants and staff who have contributed to this amazing program.
