Since the inception of the Els for Autism Golf Challenge in 2011, Gary Gauba has been an active supporter and participant. A successful entrepreneur, with a history of transforming start-up businesses, Gary adeptly took on the role of Golf Challenge chairman, spearheading a west-coast regional tournament each year since 2014.
Over the years, Gary has shown his genuine passion for bettering his community and giving to causes close to his heart. He has not only made significant monetary contributions to the Els for Autism Foundation, but he has also contributed his creativity and business acumen to improve events. He is known for placing his spin on his west-coast regional tournaments by adding wine tastings and putting contests. Additionally, he is an active partner in the Foundation’s fundraising programs, regularly contributing innovative ideas to drive annual giving efforts.
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the landscape of fundraising changed drastically. In keeping the health and safety of event participants a priority, the Foundation canceled or rescheduled all fundraisers from March through July. These changes have unfortunately impacted multiple golf challenge events the Foundation’s most significant fundraising activity.
Yet even in these difficult times, Gary’s dedication to Els for Autism knows no bounds. Armed with a can-do attitude and a silver lining vision, he suggested that the Foundation host a virtual poker tournament to enhance its fundraising efforts in 2020.
So, in just a few weeks, the Foundation’s event team quickly planned its first-ever Poker Night, with Gary playing an active role in inspiring his network to get involved and driving participation.
The Foundation is looking forward to hosting the virtual poker tournament on July 30, 2020, with participants around the globe playing to help those with autism spectrum disorder. All proceeds from the tournament will benefit the Foundation’s ongoing programs and services.
“We are truly grateful to all who have continued to support the Foundation throughout 2020,” Paige Scollard, Events Manager for Els for Autism said. “We are honored to have supporters like Gary, who continue to go above and beyond to help us in any way they can.”
To register for Poker Night, visit our website: https://www.elsforautism.org/get-involved/fundraising-events/poker/
The Els for Autism Golf Challenge events will kick-off in August. You can view the schedule and learn about the event social distancing guidelines here: https://e4agolf.com/