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A chilly silver day didn’t detract from the fun and the generosity at the Donald Danforth Jr. Memorial Golf Tournament earlier this month in St. Louis

More than 90 people took to the greens of Algonquin Golf Club, and their generosity raised more than $102,000 in scholarship funds for American Youth Foundation camp and leadership programs.

The Donald Danforth Jr. Memorial Golf Tournament is the AYF’s largest fundraiser. It began 24 years ago in memory of Donald Danforth Jr., who served as AYF Board Chair from 1974 to 2001.

“Each year, whatever else may be going on, the players in our tournament show up to support the youth in our programs,” said Sandra George, Vice President of Advancement.

Nearly 20 volunteers supported AYF staff during the tournament, helping with tasks like set up, registration, selling raffle tickets, and overseeing competitions like straightest drive and closest to the pin.

“This tournament can’t happen without the hard work and enthusiasm of our volunteer community,” George said.

Nestlé Purina Petcare continued its longstanding partnership with the AYF, returning once again as the tournament’s presenting sponsor. “We’re so grateful to Nestlé Purina for their continued partnership,” George said. “Both our organizations share a common founder, William H. Danforth, and this connection has lasted nearly a century. We’re proud to see it continue into the next 100 years.”

The golfers returned to the clubhouse for an evening of drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and more fundraising through fund-a-needs, auction items, and raffles.

President Liz Marshall and Board Chair DD Danforth Burlin both welcomed and thanked the golfers for their continued support, and National Leadership Conference participant Emma Roberts made the biggest impact during the post-game program. She shared how her time at NLC helped her connect with a strong, caring community and inspired her to lead.

“Emma’s speech was a powerful testimony to the transformative nature of our programs,” George said. “We’re so grateful that she was able to join us and share her story with our supporters.”

If you are interested in sponsoring, participating in, or volunteering for the 2026 Donald Danforth Jr. Memorial Golf Tournament, please email advancement@ayf.com for more information.