Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County Celebrates 80 Years of Impact with 2026 Keeping Kids Safe Golf Invitational
Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County will celebrate its 80th Anniversary in 2026 with one of the organization’s signature fundraising events, the Keeping Kids Safe Golf Invitational, on Monday, September 28, 2026, at the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Members Golf Club in Lakewood Ranch.
The tournament will bring together community leaders, business partners, golfers and philanthropists for a day of friendly competition and meaningful impact, helping ensure local youth have a safe place where they can have fun, make friends, learn and become future-ready.
Adding to the excitement, Archie Griffin (#44), the legendary football icon and the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner in college football history, will attend as a special guest, providing participants with a unique opportunity to meet one of the sport’s most celebrated athletes.
“This year’s tournament is especially meaningful as we celebrate 80 years of serving
the children and teens of Manatee County,” said Dawn Stanhope, President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County. “For eight decades, Boys & Girls Clubs have provided a place where young people can feel safe, learn, build confidence and prepare for the future. We’re thrilled to mark this milestone alongside supporters and special guest Archie Griffin.”
Event Details
Date: Monday, September 28, 2026
Registration: 10:00 a.m.
Tournament Start: 12:00 p.m. shotgun start
Venue: Ritz-Carlton Members Golf Club, 15150 70th Terrace E, Bradenton, FL 34202
The tournament will feature a four-person team shamble format and is expected to sell out with more than 100 golfers participating.
Team Registration: $2,000 per foursome
Registration includes:
- Boxed lunch
- Golf cart
- Complimentary beverages and snacks on the course
- Awards and dinner reception
- Access to live and silent auctions
Following play, participants and guests will gather for an Awards and Dinner Reception, featuring exciting live and silent auctions to further support Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County’s mission.
Non-Golfers Welcome
Friends and supporters who do not golf can still join the festivities by purchasing a
Drinks & Links ticket and attending the post-tournament reception and auctions.
Some sponsorship packages include complimentary Drinks & Links tickets for non-
golfing guests.
Sponsorship Opportunities Available
Businesses and community partners are encouraged to support the tournament through a variety of sponsorship opportunities. Sponsorships not only provide valuable visibility but also help fund programs that empower local youth to achieve academic success, develop leadership skills and reach their full potential.
To register a team, purchase tickets or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, click the event ticket link or visit: https://www.bgcmanatee.org/events