Big-hearted golf club members of the Pestana Silves SICG (Silves Internacional Clube de Golfe) have made a sky-high effort for local charities. Six members, including team leader and this year’s club captain, John Bataille, jumped in tandem freefall from the giddy height of 15,000 feet (4,600 metres) above ground. Following sponsorship, and SICG activities, the fantastic sum of €4,100 has been raised.
Every year, the serving SICG captain nominates chosen charities, and funds are then raised over the season by members, guests and sponsors. John Bataille’s two chosen charities for 2018 are the Alzheimer Information & Advice Office in the Algarve and Pirilampos and Gaivota children’s homes, part of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Albufeira. Each now receives over €2,000 following the club’s terrific fundraising efforts.
The Alzheimer Information & Advice Office works in partnership with the Portuguese Alzheimer Association, providing free information, support and guidance to anyone with concerns about Alzheimer’s disease or any form of dementia.
The Pirilampos and Gaivota children’s homes offer basic accommodation in a caring environment with regular meals. Pirilampos care for between 15 and 20 children at any one time, with children either going to crèche or school. At secondary school age, the children move to the Gaivota home, currently housing 40 teenagers.
As he explains, John Bataille is immensely proud of all SICG members and others who have contributed so generously to support this year’s chosen charities: “There are many local causes deserving of support, and I am proud that we have been able to assist the ones I have chosen for this year. Club members have given tremendous support over the year, and I am proud and delighted that our efforts have made a real difference to this year’s charities.”
Algarve golf clubs have a strong reputation for supporting their local communities, and this recent SICG venture is a wonderful illustration of how the desire to give something back to the community translates into a tangible benefit for causes which truly deserve support.
By TOM CALLAN
