Gary Pinkel set to host sixth annual charity golf tournament for GP M.A.D.E. Foundation
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Hall of Famer Gary Pinkel's G.P. M.A.D.E. Foundation is set to host its 6th annual golf tournament on Monday.
On Sunday, the foundation hosted a get-together where attendees had the opportunity to meet Former Mizzou football players, participate in a panel discussion with Pinkel, and enjoy various games.
Since its start up in 2019, Pinkel's Foundation has awarded over 80 scholarships, providing more than $390,000 to low-income seniors. Additionally, the foundation has distributed over $285,000 in grants to local Missouri organizations.
Pinkel says providing an education to the youth is incredibly important.
"You can change a whole generation from getting an education. And whether it's a two or four year doesn't matter. You choose something you enjoy doing, you pursue it, and you graduate. And that's the most important thing." said Pinkel.
The Foundation awarded two scholarships to Paven Clark and Devin York on Sunday.
Paven Clark, from Lake Ozark, became a GP scholar upon graduating from high school in 2021. He is now entering his senior year at Mizzou, where he is pursuing a degree in health science. After graduation, he plans to attend the University of Missouri's medical school in the fall of 2025.
Devin York, from Columbia, became a GP Made scholar after completing basic training and Military Occupational Specialty school with the U.S. Marines. He is in his final semester at Central Methodist University, where he is finishing a degree in Biology. York plans to commission as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps.
The G.P. M.A.D.E. Foundation focuses on supporting children battling cancer, overcoming disability barriers, and facing social and economic challenges. Pinkel, whose siblings experienced disabilities, emphasizes the importance of this mission.
"My brother and sister were in a wheelchair when they reached adolescence," Pinkel shared. "They got a disease called hereditary spastic paraplegia. So they lost their ability to walk when they were 15 years old. And my sister, to this day, she's 75."
During Monday's event, the foundation will honor six-year-old Calvin, who was diagnosed with pediatric leukemia in October 2022. Calvin is currently in remission and undergoing chemotherapy.
The golf tournament will feature 44 teams in a three-part competition with six-person teams.
"I will give credit to Pam Bowman [Executive Director]. She's worked tirelessly on the [Golf Tournament]. We have 50 hole sponsors who have contributed over $25,000, significantly boosting our funding to support our pillars," said Lisa Bowman, Tournament Director for the GP M.A.D.E. Foundation Golf Tournament.
Monday's tournament will start at 8 a.m.
