The Vermilion Lions Club is gearing up to host its 24th Annual Texas Scramble Golf Tournament on June 2 at 1 p.m. at the Vermilion Golf and Country Club. This year’s event will be held in support of the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) and Canadians with vision loss.
According to CNIB.ca, an estimated 1.5 million Canadians identify themselves as having sight loss, with an additional 5.59 million at risk of losing their sight due to eye disease. The four major eye diseases, including cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy, affect millions of Canadians and significantly impact their well-being and quality of life.
Furthermore, CNIB reports that only one-third of Canadian working-age adults with vision loss are employed, and half of those employed struggle to make ends meet on $20,000 or less. Additionally, people over 60 with sight loss are three times more likely to experience clinical depression, and all people with sight loss are at greater risk of social isolation and reduced community participation.
The CNIB, founded in 1918 by veterans blinded in World War I and the Halifax Explosion, is dedicated to improving the lives of Canadians with vision loss. They work to increase access to employment and technology, advocate for more accessible communities, and connect Canadians with guide dogs.
The Vermilion Lions Club has been a valued community partner of CNIB for years, and the annual golf tournament is a significant fundraising event that supports its mission. Ashlee Rolheiser, CNIB Manager of Philanthropy for Alberta and the Northwest Territories, describes the tournament as the core of what they do.
“The annual golf tournament and its fundraising endeavour is a true testament of the Vermilion Lions’ dedication to those living in Vermilion, and across Alberta,” said Ashlee.
All proceeds received from the event will continue to help CNIB program areas across Alberta, aiding Albertans living with blindness or sight loss to play, live, work, and adapt with technology, thereby increasing their independence and ability to live the lives they choose.
Lions members Cliff Rolheiser and Barry Clampitt are excited to host this year’s event and continue to support those affected by sight loss.
“We are looking forward to having Ashlee from the CNIB coming for the tournament. It has been an honour and a pleasure to have been and continue to be involved in this very important event which benefits all the individuals in our province and community who are affected by sight loss,” said Barry.
Ashlee also said, “I’ll be happy to attend the event, once again, and am excited to come back to Vermilion! The spirit of the town is incredibly welcoming, and I look forward to reconnecting with the community.”
Entry fees for the tournament are $70 and include nine holes of golf, supper, and prizes. To register or learn more about the event, contact Barry at 780-853-1188 or email crolheiser1@gmail.com, or call the Vermilion Golf Club at 780-853-4444.
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