Hosted by WID Board Member Phyllis Thomas, the event exceeded expectations, raising over $305,000 at the Coral Ridge Country Club in Fort Lauderdale. The tournament highlighted the community’s commitment to supporting programs aiding survivors of domestic violence and their children in starting lives free of domestic violence. The Thomas Family Foundation, the title sponsor, played a crucial role, along with Presenting Sponsors UKG, David and Lynn Sobocinski, and JM Family Enterprises. Major Sponsors included The Kelsey Group, Al and Maria Baker, Holman, Steve and Michele Ball, and Robinson’s Jewelers.

Over the past decade, the Women In Distress Charity Golf Tournament has raised more than $1.75 million. These funds enable the agency to provide confidential services, including emergency safe shelter, a 24-hour crisis hotline, counseling, therapy, education, and training to break the cycle of domestic violence. In the previous year alone, the agency served over 2,400 individuals, recording over 46,000 safe shelter nights—the highest in its 49-year history.

This year’s theme, “Through the Years,” celebrates dedicated donors who participated in all 10 tournaments, making lasting changes with effects rippling through the community. Their sustained commitment reflects the enduring impact of community support in the fight against domestic violence.

Phyllis Thomas, emphasized the enduring strength from a committed donor base: “Building a lasting community of supporters is fundamental to our mission. Engaging in continuous conversations and cultivating a robust base of supporters creates a foundation empowering our community to grow stronger together. It’s not just about preventing domestic violence; it’s about fostering resilience and ensuring that support reaches more individuals in need. Women In Distress is privileged to have a community that understands the importance of ongoing dialogue and support, making a lasting impact that reverberates far beyond our events.”

Dr. Linda Parker, President and CEO of Women In Distress, expressed gratitude for the impactful contributions of community leaders like Phyllis and Al Thomas: “Phyllis and Al’s wholehearted support, as personal sponsors and through Phyllis’s leadership of the annual golf tournament, demonstrates a deep commitment that resonates powerfully. Their involvement is not just support; it’s a heartfelt commitment that shapes the very essence of our mission to end domestic violence.”

As Women In Distress celebrates a decade of golf tournament support for advocacy, counseling, and safe shelter, the organization looks forward to continued collaboration with the community in the shared mission of ending domestic violence.