Shreveport, Louisiana: Williams Companies Golf Tournament Raises Over $143,000 for Local United Way
On a sunny day September 13, the beautiful Huntington Park Golf Course in Shreveport became the bustling center of generosity as Williams Companies and their dedicated employees came together for a fantastic cause. Through their annual golf tournament, they raised an impressive $143,177 for the United Way of Northwest Louisiana (UWNWLA). This year marks the third consecutive year that Williams has hosted this enjoyable event, and it was a heartwarming sight to see employees join forces, enjoying a day filled with golf, camaraderie, and a shared goal of making a difference in their community.
A Day of Fun and Giving
Participants eagerly donned their golf gear, ready to hit the greens while contributing to a noble cause. Each golfer paid an entry fee, and many took the opportunity to spend even more on raffle tickets, eagerly trying to win exciting prizes provided by the tournament sponsors. It was a true community spirit moment, with both friends and colleagues engaging in friendly competition, making it a day to remember.
All the proceeds raised during this tournament, coupled with a generous company match, will go directly to support the essential programs and services provided by UWNWLA, which has been tirelessly working to uplift the local community.
Fueling a Clean Energy Economy
While Williams Companies is known for managing about one-third of the natural gas used across the United States—which is crucial for heating homes, cooking meals, and generating electricity—they also have a profound commitment to giving back to the community. According to Tye Ragle, the Director of Operations for Williams’ Haynesville division, “Supporting the communities where we live and work is part of who we are.” This sentiment resonates deeply within the company as they aim to embody core values like authenticity, responsibility, and a commitment to safety.
Williams’ collaboration with United Way allows the company to ensure that their charitable efforts remain both impactful and local, supporting and empowering communities across several states where they operate.
Focusing on Community Needs
The work of UWNWLA focuses on improving health, education, and financial stability for families in need across ten parishes. The organization pays special attention to ALICE—an acronym that stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed—highlighting the struggles of individuals and families working hard but often still unable to make ends meet.
UWNWLA is well-regarded for its programs, which include Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the Shreveport Financial Empowerment Center, and the essential 211 health and human services hotline. The success of the tournament not only reflects good-hearted intentions but will have a significant practical impact on the services UWNWLA can provide.
Significant Impact on the Community
As LaToria Thomas, President & CEO of UWNWLA put it, “Williams Companies is our single largest fundraising event.” She shared her gratitude for the continued generosity of the company and its employees, noting a notable increase of $36,000 from last year’s event. This kind of growth in philanthropy shows a strong commitment to community improvement, which directly influences the lives of those the organization serves.
As Shreveport residents, we can all appreciate the hard work and enthusiasm that goes into events like these. They serve as a reminder of the good that flows from coming together for a worthy goal. For those interested in making a difference, UWNWLA offers workplace campaigns, and additional information can be found by reaching out directly to their Director of Donor Relations.
In conclusion, the annual golf tournament not only provided a day of fun under the sun but also fueled meaningful efforts to aid local individuals and families in overcoming challenges. Together, we can continue to build a supportive community in which everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
