Early in the morning on Wednesday, August 2, golfers will line up in carts at Beaver Meadow Golf Course, waiting for the scramble start of the 35th Annual Funds for Education Golf Tournament. Hosted by the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce and presented by NBT Bank, N.A., this tournament draws business leaders from across the Capital Region. Although players love the City of Concord’s beautiful course, delicious food throughout the day, and exciting games and contests that make this tournament memorable, the real reason this event draws so many sponsors, players and volunteers is because of the cause that it supports. Each year, the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce presents two programs that offer real-world experiences for local students; these initiatives are made possible by the Annual Funds for Education Golf Tournament.
The Chamber’s Business Grants for Teachers initiative funds projects that give students workforce experience and opportunities to learn practical life skills. These programs are designed by local teachers who best know their students’ interests and needs. The Chamber has awarded over $165,000 to local teachers through this initiative. In 2022, these grants funded three unique projects: Karen McCormack, a teacher at Broken Ground School, created a STEAM-based Maker Station in the art room. This area encouraged students to explore engineering, science, technology, art, and math-related projects in a self-directed learning environment. Jessamyn Rockwell at Concord High School established a career development and opportunities board. This area features resume templates, scripts for contacting businesses to inquire about employment, job application tips and tricks, information on training opportunities and college courses that can fit into a high school schedule, and a job board with local opportunities. Second Start’s Transitional Employment and Training (TET) Program received funds to continue efforts that connect at-risk students with paid employment opportunities which allow participants to explore different career paths, develop skills, and gain valuable workforce experience. “It’s important to support our teachers to expand outside their normal teaching practices in the classroom,” said Sean Skabo of Bangor Savings Bank. As Chair of the Chamber’s Business and Education Committee, Skabo helps determine which grant applications will receive funding from the Chamber. This committee prioritizes applications that support practical skill-building and connect students to business leaders in the community, where they can learn about different industries and career opportunities. “Thanks to all the participants in the golf tournament that make this happen,” said Skabo. Applications are open now until Friday, October 20 for the 2023 Business Grants for Teachers initiative; teachers from area schools are encouraged to submit unique project ideas for students of any age.
Capital Area Student Leadership (CASL) is another educational program offered by the Chamber. Generously underwritten by Northeast Delta Dental and supported by the golf tournament, CASL is a highly-immersive program for high school sophomores to meet local professionals and civic leaders, develop leadership skills, and travel outside of the classroom to explore key businesses and government buildings. “[CASL] brings together students from different schools and backgrounds to learn how to work together towards a positive future,” said 2023 CASL Chair Beth Mulleavey of Bangor Savings Bank. This unique leadership program has inspired over 760 graduates to investigate job opportunities and career paths with local industry leaders. When asked why students should participate in CASL, one 2023 graduate responded, “To be exposed to unique perspectives, learn about what leadership truly is, and immerse themselves in their community and learn about other people’s advice, experiences.” When asked what they learned in the 2023 program, one student wrote, “I learned that public speaking isn’t so scary, and I was able to use that skill in a conference this past week.” Another student replied, “I learned that Concord is full of passionate leaders who are dedicated to making the city of Concord the best it can be. This inspired me to try and make that kind of impact in my own community.”
Both CASL and Business Grants for Teachers would not be possible without eager golfers ready to tee off for a cause at the Chamber’s annual tournament. Players take their time enjoying the day on the course—stopping for snacks, drinks from New Hampshire Distributors, LLC, and hot dogs grilled by the Duprey Hospitality, LLC team. There are many complimentary contests along the course, including longest drive, straightest drive, a putting green contest, and several exciting Hole In One contests with high-value prizes. Teams can also participate in the Vegas Hole or Air Cannon contest with an additional donation, or contribute further with raffle tickets and a VIP Golfer Kit that includes extra opportunities to get ahead of the competition.
The tournament culminates in a lively summer luncheon, with awards presented by DJ Nazzy. The lunch is a great opportunity to network with fellow players and thank the generous sponsors that make the Chamber’s educational programming possible. This year’s major sponsors include NBT Bank, N.A.; Mason + Rich, Professional Association; Merrimack County Savings Bank; Servpro of Concord; The Rowley Agency, Inc.; Orr & Reno, PA; Ledyard National Bank; Unitil; Northeast Delta Dental; The H.L. Turner Group Inc.; CheckmateHCM; New Hampshire Distributors, LLC.; Duprey Hospitality, LLC; and Ridgelight Studio. To see a list of additional supporters and learn more about the Funds for Education Golf Tournament and the Chamber’s educational programming, visit my.concordnhchamber.com/event-calendar.
Incorporated in 1919, New Hampshire’s state capital chamber of commerce—the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce—develops economic opportunities, strengthens the business climate, and enhances quality of life in the Capital region. As largest chamber in the state, it is deeply invested in the local community and dedicated to shaping competitive economic development strategy, advocating for policies and projects that benefit the region, and promoting Concord as a culturally vibrant visitor destination. For more information, please visit concordnhchamber.com.