Saturday, September 05, 2009

4th Annual ziMS Foundation Gala & Golf Tournament


"We are very excited about what we have been able to do in 3 years," said Cheryl Zimmerman. "What started as a grass roots effort in 2006 is beginning to have a positive effect."

Formed in 2006 by Our Washington Nationals Ryan Zimmerman, The ziMS Foundation is dedicated to raising funds to help treat and hopefully find the ultimate cure for Multiple Sclerosis. The neurological disease that affects over 400,000 folks in The United States and specifically one person close to Our Number 11's heart. Ryan's mom, Cheryl, was diagnosed with MS in 1995. And even Ryan has said it has been difficult for him "to see such a vibrant, athletic, energetic family member sidelined and unable to enjoy her many passions."

With those thoughts heavy on his mind, Ryan Zimmerman--along with his parents--Cheryl & Keith--started The ziMS Foundation. And over the past three years have raised over $200,000. Funds now being distributed to needy organizations looking to offset the devastation of a disease that affects the central nervous system. Not only is the ziMS Foundation helping those near their very own Virginia Beach, Virginia community, but also is branching out to The University of Virginia's Neurological MS Clinic and The Arlington YMCA. Gifts have been granted to The Hampton Roads Chapter of Multiple Sclerosis, The Yoga Program (for MS Patients) at The Arlington "Y", as well as, The ziMS Foundation fully funding a "Flip Flop Retreat" in Virginia Beach for those with MS and their caregivers--in cooperation with The Hampton Roads MS Chapter.

Specifically to help The UVA Neurological MS Clinic, Wintergreen Resort in Virginia will host a special Golf Tournament this October 23rd to benefit the ziMS Foundation. And in fact, Ryan Zimmerman and his parents are matching whatever dollars are raised--up to $15,000--to be directly donated to the UVA Clinic.

Which brings us to The Main Event. The 4th ziMS Foundation Annual Gala and Golf Tournament to be held in Virginia Beach on November 6th and 7th. You may recall, Sohna and I attended last year's events which raised over $105,000 for charity. And this year's event is expected to be even bigger and better. If you are looking to participate in the event by attending or donating-- now is the time to sign up. The Gala & Golf Tournament is just over two months away from happening.

"But I have to tell you though," Cheryl Zimmerman said to me the other day on the phone, "The Golf Tournament Foursomes have sold out, all 144 spots, which has really pleased us that everyone felt it important to confirm their plans early. So, now we are pushing the Gala Tickets which are limited to a total number of 250 at $95 per person."

Here are the complete details

On Friday November 6th, The Gala will be held at The Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort. Those $95 Gala Tickets are limited and on a first come/first served basis. On that evening--beginning at 6pm--a silent auction with Hors d'ouevres and entertainment provided will take place at the Oceanfront Resort--followed at 8:30PM by the live auction where Ryan Zimmerman personally participates. Silent auction items in the past have included, not only autographed sports memorabilia from many of Ryan's friends, family and businesses who generously donate, but weekend getaways and special dinners. The Live Auction has included dinner/lunch with Ryan Zimmerman, Golf Outings and other weekend getaways in the past.

The now sold out Saturday Golf Tournament held at the Virginia Beach RedWing Lake Golf Course may well be the highlight of the entire weekend where all participants are provided food, beverages and golfers gift bags to go along with the tournament prizes and tickets to the Friday Night Gala. Ryan makes every effort to visit or play a hole or two with every single foursome participating. And although the tournament has no official spots left open, Cheryl Zimmerman did state: "If someone wants to come on board and become a major sponsor, then we would certainly find a spot for their foursome."

So come on down to Virginia Beach, Virginia on November 6th & 7th to support Our Washington Nationals Ryan Zimmerman and his parents for a worthy cause to help find a cure for the debilitating disease Multiple Sclerosis close to Our Number 11's heart.

Here are the necessary links:

For hotel reservations at the Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort click on this link and make sure you ask for the special ziMS Foundation Room Rates set for the weekend.

For 4th Annual Gala Tickets on November 6th here at $95 per person, first come-first served.

And here is The Gala & Golf Tournament home page for complete event details.

And the ziMS Foundation Home Page to browse the work accomplished since 2006 and looking forward to the years to come.

No comments: