Since the COVID-19 crisis began in March, COA has been on the front lines serving our community's elders, those most at risk due to the pandemic. Despite the requirement of the temporary closure of our senior centers, our work for seniors has continued unabated. In fact, with the institution of quarantines and social distancing, many older adults in the community are relying upon COA’s services more than ever.

While the current crisis has required the cancellation of COA's Annual Gala, our biggest fundraiser of the year, we are thrilled to announce that our 17^th Annual Championship Golf Tournament will take place as planned on August 10th at Slammer & Squire, World Golf Village. 

“We look forward to joining our supporters for a fun day on the green for a very worthy cause,” said Becky Yanni, COA’s Executive Director. “Our community’s elders have never needed our help more than they do now. We are fortunate to live in a community that is committed to being there for them.”

Each day, the challenges for seniors in St. Johns County continue to grow. Extended social distancing requirements are worsening isolation and loneliness for older adults and caregivers. As studies have shown and experience bears out, these are critical threats to their health and well-being. 

In addition, the required closure of COA’s senior centers has created a financial strain on our organization. The loss of programming fees and reception rentals at COA’s River House has reduced the funding available for providing new supports needed by seniors during extended closures and stay-at-home requirements.

That is why COA is calling upon members of the community to support the crucial services COA provides by participating in the tournament as Champion for Elders playing teams, or by joining us as founding Elder Guard financial sponsors. Four-person playing team sponsorships are available starting at a donation of $2,500.  Elder Guard financial sponsorships are available for donations between $250 and $15,000.  Monthly Elder Guard Sustainer sponsorships are also available in any monthly amount. Click here for more details on joining COA as a monthly Elder Guard Sustainer.

Casey and Barbara Van Rysdam are COA supporters and volunteers who have sponsored a team at the annual COA golf fundraiser for the past eight years.  

“This year, it's especially important to continue that support since the fundraising gala has been cancelled for obvious reasons - while the needs of our elderly neighbors are even greater during this pandemic,” Casey shared.  “We're blessed that the golf tournament can still go on in a responsible and safe way.  It would be great to see even more participation to support the COA's mission to help those most vulnerable in our community.” 

“Our ultimate goal is to do everything in our power to support seniors in St. Johns County to stay connected and maintain their independence in these very difficult times,” Ms. Yanni explained. “The need is great, and to meet it we need the support of the entire community.”

Individuals, businesses and organizations interested in participating as players and sponsors should sign up on this event page, or contact COA’s Sandy Hollett at 904-209-3697 or shollett@coasjc.org by July 27th.  

COA will be publicizing the event sponsors online and in print to celebrate their commitment to supporting St. Johns County elders.

Council on Aging (COA) has been serving the needs of seniors in St. Johns County for over 47 years.  The non-profit organization provides a comprehensive array of services for older adults including Meals on Wheels, independent living services, memory support, adult day care, transportation, prescription assistance and more.  To do so, we rely upon the generous support of partners in the community who are committed to being there for the elders of St. Johns County.

Thank you for your generous support of St. Johns County seniors!