The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians today presented checks totaling $113,000 from the proceeds of the Chumash Classic Golf Tournament to two community organizations: United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County and Stuart C. Gildred Family YMCA.
“We are proud to partner with these organizations,” said Vincent Armenta, tribal chairman of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. “Both play a significant role in ensuring that our community is a better place.”
The proceeds were shared evenly between the two organizations, so each received a check in the amount of $56,500.
“Enabling all our member youth to reach their full potential is only a dream if not for the commitment of our donor partners in pulling our resources together to make it happen,” said Michael Rattray, CEO of the United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County. “We fully appreciate the confidence that the Chumash Foundation has entrusted in our partnership in making this dream a reality for thousands of kids throughout our county every year.”
This is the 6th year that the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians and the Chumash Casino Resort hosted a golf tournament. Proceeds from the previous tournaments totaled an average of $100,000 each year.
“Our tournament has become more popular every year,” said Richard Gomez, tribal vice chairman of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. “Our goal is to not only raise money for worthy causes, but to make the fundraiser unique and special. Participants look forward to the Chumash Classic Golf Tournament and each year we have a full field of 144 players.”
“With this generous gift to the Stuart C. Gildred Family YMCA, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians are once again helping to strengthen our community,” said Dan Powell, district vice president of the Channel Islands YMCA. “As we do every day, we continue to work side-by-side with our neighbors to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.”
Over the last decade, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Foundation has donated more than $13 million to hundreds of local groups, organizations, and schools in the community as part of the Chumash’s long-standing tradition of giving. The Foundation is governed by the tribe’s Business Committee.