Swing Away to Help Local Families in Need

There are few things more rewarding than being able to give a family in need a little hand up courtesy of neighbors.

That’s according to Sean O’Donnell.

As president of the Westchase Charitable Foundation, O’Donnell gets to spend his spare time helping families in need both in Westchase and nearby. He’s been a part of the all-volunteer nonprofit organization for about nine years and has served as president for about five of those years.

“I do it because I feel like I’m supposed to do it,” O’Donnell said.

The nonprofit foundation raises money through a variety of events to help local families that are suffering from financial hardships. In many cases, there’s a sick parent or there’s been a death in the family.

“We raise the money to help families that are suffering from a recent tragedy or illness,” O’Donnell explained. “It fits our mold better if there’s a child involved.”

Since the nonprofit is all-volunteer every penny raised goes to help families, he added. The board also takes the time to vet families to make sure there is a real need and a board member personally delivers the assistance the foundation can provide whether it be a check, grocery store gift cards, gas cards or so on.

“Anything to help them get back on their feet,” O’Donnell said. “I like it because every penny we get in goes directly to the family. We actually knock on the door and hand them a check. It’s very rewarding, but also the saddest job I’ve ever done. I can’t bring myself to stop.”

To get that job done, however, the foundation needs support from the community. That’s why it’s playing host to its 10th annual Westchase Cup golf tournament this Saturday, May 11. There are about six openings left in the field, O’Donnell said. The tournament takes place at Cypress Run Golf and Country Club, 2669 St. Andrews Blvd. in Tarpon Springs.

The cost to play is $150 per player, according to the event’s online signup. For more details and to register, visit the event’s site.

Can’t make it out for a round of golf on Saturday? O’Donnell said area residents can still help out by taking part in an online auction. The auction includes a variety of spa packages donated by local businesses. Check it out and place a bid by visiting the auction webpage.

To find out more about the founation or to make a straight donation, visit it online. You can also keep up with the Westchase Charitable Foundation on Facebook.

What's the most rewarding volunteer work you've ever done? Tell us by commenting below!

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