DARKE COUNTY — Youth for Christ (YFC) is looking for people who want to make a difference for teenagers while having a great time in the process. On Wednesday, June 28, Youth for Christ of the Miami Valley will hold its 27th annual Golf Classic at the White Springs Golf Club in order to raise money for its work of helping teenagers find direction and hope. YFC’s annual golf classic is always a popular day with local golfers and an important part of furthering the ministry of YFC.

“One of the reasons YFC’s tournament is so well liked is because of the delicious food that is served all throughout the day,” said organizers.

That experience is enhanced even more for those who choose to participate in a “Gold Class Upgrade.” By contributing or raising double the registration fee for the event, “Gold Class” players receive additional benefits such as steak sandwiches, a complimentary golf shirt, and chair massage. These “Gold Class” amenities will continue to be revealed throughout the day, adding an extra measure of fun to the event and increasing the amount of money raised to help local teenagers.

“Another reason people enjoy YFC’s Golf Classic is because of the many prizes that are available,” said organizers.

Golfers are encouraged to solicit pledges rather than “paying to play” to more greatly benefit Youth for Christ. Some still choose to simply pay their own registration, but prizes await those who are successful in raising the most in sponsorships. This year’s top four fundraisers will choose between a golf trip at Hueston Woods State Park Resort, two quality golf clubs, a $100 Ace gift card, or a “Fitbit” fitness band. In addition, great door prizes await all of the golfers who participate.

Last year’s Youth for Christ Golf Classic yielded more than $21,500 to benefit YFC’s ministry to young people. In addition to the portion of that total raised by the golfers, a significant amount of this income came from local businesses and individuals who sponsored holes, carts, and the grand prizes. Some businesses chose to go even beyond these levels with their support. These sponsorships are for those that want to more significantly support YFC and they will receive more significant advertising in return. This year, the goal is to raise $22,000 to benefit teenagers, which means new sponsors and golfers are being sought.

Youth for Christ of the Miami Valley staff members and volunteers work with teenagers in 12 different ministry sites throughout Darke and Preble Counties. This school year, staff and volunteers have connected with more than 1,000 teenagers through a variety of activities including high school and middle school Campus Life, Campus Life Core, which involve personal appointments, large and small group meetings, multi-day retreats, service projects and special events.

“Campus Life ministry combines healthy relationships with creative programs to help young people make good choices, establish a solid foundation for life, and positively impact their schools. Like every ministry of YFC, Campus Life seeks to engage these young people wherever they are found as lifelong followers of Jesus Christ,” said a representative. “Campus Life Core mobilizes teams of students with adult coaches who together, follow Jesus in a way that naturally invites friends to discover Jesus with them. Teams of students meet weekly with adult coaches to “share, pray and discover” how God is challenging them to take risks and invite their lost friends to discover Jesus with them.”