It’s a time of challenge and the largest management companies are focused on improving operations and keeping the revenue flowing at their facilities. But they are also focused on the communities around their courses.
For instance, Arcis implemented an effort called ClubsHELP, which connects clubs with hospitals in their regions. A member of the management team takes the role of captain, helps to identify the hospital’s greatest needs and seek to address them.
“We've had an excellent response from our clubs,” said Blake Walker, CEO and founder. “Even more gratifying is the genuine appreciation of the partners in their communities – the hospitals, food banks, and emergency services personnel. These facilities are so grateful for the support, donations, and more importantly, for these new community connections.”
ClubCorp’s Facebook page applauds the many efforts its clubs are doing:
“Tower Club Dallas donated meals to the Dallas Police Department on Friday, May 15 to say thank you for their hard work and dedication to the community! #ClubLifeTogether #MagicMoments #GivingBack”
Troon’s website boasts a section called “Moments to Help,” which highlights what its many clubs are doing. Here’s but one example:
“NorthRiver Yacht Club in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, prepared and delivered 40 complete family meals to the Boys and Girls Club of West Alabama on April 11th. The Boys and Girls Club of West Alabama has continued stay open through these challenging times. The complimentary meals were enjoyed by parents and caregivers who worked through the Easter weekend.
Billy Casper Golf clubs also have been doing similar acts of kindness. It has a history of doing so on a large-scale basis, with its World Largest Golf Outing, which it organizes to benefit the Fisher House Foundation, which provides housing for vets undergoing treatment at the VA and other medical centers.
The event is slated for August, but Elmore isn’t sure if can be held this year, given the ban on large gatherings.
Indeed, such bans — and other limits — could have significant implications. If not long lasting, they could make 2020 not just a rough year, but “a really, really rough year,” he said.