Greater Peace CDC’s Signature Fundraising Events
At Greater Peace Community Development Corporation (GPCDC), our commitment to building stronger families, supporting youth, and creating pathways to opportunity is fueled not only by our daily programs but also by the incredible support we receive from our community. That support comes to life yearly through three signature fundraising events:
The Swinging for Scholarships Golf Tournament and Taste of Lee County Community Comedy Roast.
These two events are more than just a good time — they are essential to the lifeblood of our mission and directly impact the lives of the children, families, and individuals we serve.
Swinging for Scholarships Golf Tournament: Driving Change, One Swing at a Time
Community leaders, professionals, and friends gather on the green for our Swinging for Scholarships Golf Tournament each spring. More than just a day of golf, this event raises vital funds to support GPCDC’s educational and workforce development programs.
“Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just here for the camaraderie, every swing helps us invest in our youth,” says a longtime supporter. “You’re helping send a child to summer camp, college, or funding after-school tutoring — that’s powerful.” ~ Clarinda J. Turner, Executive Director
Sponsorships and player registrations provide critical resources that fund summer enrichment activities, free meals for children, college scholarships, transportation, and STEM learning tools. It’s a day of purpose wrapped in fun and fellowship.
Taste of Lee County: A Flavorful Celebration with a Purpose
Taste of Lee County is a feast for a cause — a culinary experience that brings together local chefs, restaurants, and food lovers to celebrate the best flavors our region has to offer. But beyond the savory bites and sweet treats lies a deeper purpose.
“This event helps feed more than just appetites,” says the GPCDC staff. “It helps fund the meals we serve daily to children in our programs, many of whom rely on us for their primary source of nutrition during the summer and after school.”
Guests enjoy a lively evening of food sampling, music, and community connection — all while knowing their ticket supports vital wraparound services like child care, transportation, mentorship, and academic enrichment.
The Community Comedy Roast: Laughter that Lifts Lives
When community leaders take the stage to be lovingly roasted for a good cause, it’s laughter with a purpose. Our Community Comedy Roast is a crowd favorite — a light-hearted evening spotlights familiar faces while raising serious funds. Past roast honorees include: Tommy Agee, Former Auburn City Schools Superintendent Terry Jenkins, Sheriff Jay Jones, Entrepreneur Dolly Marshall, Mayor Gary Fuller (Opelika), Mayor Ron Anders (Auburn), Chett Williams, former Mayor of Auburn Bill Ham, Dr. Rev. Clifford E. Jones, and Former Auburn Athletic Director Jay Jacobs. Bo Jackson, Bruce Pearl, Jason Campbell, Ronnie Brown, and Gus Malzahn have all made special appearances.
This unique event brings joy and entertainment to our supporters and reinforces the strong bonds we share as a community. All proceeds go toward programs that help young people develop leadership skills, explore career paths, and gain real-life experience.
“This event reminds us that service can be fun,” Christopher Turner stated. “You come for the laughs and leave knowing you made a difference.”
How These Events Make a Direct Impact
Each of these fundraising events directly supports the impactful work GPCDC does year-round, including:
- Educating and feeding over 200 youth annually through our child development, after-school, youth leadership, and summer programs
- Providing affordable housing and a safe community for 48 families
- Offering teen workforce development programs that prepare youth for future careers
- Supplying free meals to children and food distribution to families in need
- Leading college tours and leadership academies that shape the next generation of changemakers
None of this would be possible without community support through participation, sponsorship, or donations.
Join Us — It’s More Than an Event, It’s a Movement
Our fundraising events bring people together for fun and connection, but their impact goes far beyond the moment. They help us create opportunities, provide safety, inspire leadership, and uplift families across Lee County.
Come swing, taste, and laugh with us — and be a part of something meaningful.
2025 Swinging for Scholarships- June 20th. Registration closes May 23rd.
2025 Taste of Lee County & Community Comedy Roast- August 2nd with roast honoree Andy Burcham “The Voice of Auburn”.
For tickets, sponsorship, or more information, contact our office at (334) 749-9487, (334) 203-0598, or office@greaterpeacecdc.org
Follow us on social media @GreaterPeaceCDC.
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