This summer, the United Way of the Greater Miss-Lou hosted its 18th annual Golf Scramble at Beau Pré Country Club. This being just my second year with United Way, I find that learning opportunities present themselves on a daily basis. Our annual golf scramble proved to be no different. As I plunged into the world of hole sponsorships, door prizes and mulligans, I found myself incredibly grateful to have such an amazing community behind this organization.

Without the support of individuals, businesses, city officials and my hard-working board of directors, the goals and objectives of United Way would not be met. I would like to single out Isle of Capri’s Tony Scudiero, Cassy Muscalino and the Isle’s staff for all their hard work leading up to and the day of the event. These guys really went above and beyond the call of duty!

Wind and rain may have put a bit of a damper on the golfing, but certainly not on the atmosphere, camaraderie and heartfelt support. Because of the dedication of so many in our area, United Way of the Greater Miss-Lou was able to raise $6,835.84 from this single event!

On behalf of the United Way of the Greater Miss-Lou, please let me extend a sincere thank you to those on both sides of the river who helped make our 2011 Golf Scramble so successful. Your financial involvement and commitment helps provide emergency food and shelter for many abused and neglected children, meals and transportation for our community’s elderly, affordable counseling to families in need, and youth programs which focus on educational achievement, job readiness and high self-efficiency.

Now our focus turns toward the kick-off of our 2011 campaign.

Everyone get ready for the seventh annual Jambalaya Cook-Off, Aug. 26 at the Natchez Convention Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This year’s theme is “Salute the Troops,” and a great time will be had by all.

Get a cooking team together, pick your favorite branch of the military to honor or patriotic theme, and join us for this fun event.

For more information about United Way or our Partnering Agencies, contact Tammy Prince at 601-442-1081 or tprince@unitedwaymisslou.org.

Tiffany Mascagni is the executive director of the United Way of the Greater Miss-Lou.