The Whitford Charitable Classic, in partnership with the Chester County Community Foundation, has delivered proceeds totaling over $120,000 to 11 local nonprofit charities in Chester County. Each grantee will receive at least $10,000 for their organization. 

This year’s Whitford Classic took place the weekend of Sept. 23 to 25. The event brings together Whitford Country Club members and an extensive network of supporters and grantees from the community to play in golf, tennis and pickleball tournaments, with the highlight being the Whitford Gala and Auction.

After putting the it on hold in 2020 and hosting a modified event in 2021, this year was extra special. Dick Vermeil, the Super Bowl-winning coach and 2022 NFL Hall of Fame inductee, served as the Honorary Chair and generously donated his time, and his wine, to promote and fundraise this event.   

As the classic continues with new organizers and committee members, Kelly Hagelauer, this year’s co-chair, recognizes the effect and influences that have resulted from this event. As a former nonprofit board member, Hagelauer has a deep appreciation for the direct and indirect impacts the Whitford Classic provides to non-profit organizations.

Furthermore, as long-standing member of Whitford, she also deeply connects with the pride that Whitford members hold in being the only country club in Philadelphia and surrounding areas where their fund, through its annual Whitford Classic, provides club members an opportunity to give back to the community in which they work, play, and raise their families. Throughout the years, the event has grown stronger and become a popular vehicle to connect people who care with causes that matter. 

Since its inception in 2011, the Whitford Classic has raised over $1.2 million and awarded grants to over 70 qualifying organizations.

This year’s grantees include: 

• Andrew Hicks Foundation 
• Brandywine Valley Active Aging 
• Communities that Care of Greater Downingtown 
• Downingtown Community Education Foundation 
• Friends Association 
• Great Valley Community Organization Internship Program 
• Hope Springs Equestrian Therapy 
• St. Mary’s Franciscan Shelter for Homeless Families 
• The Barn at Spring Brook Farm 
• The Fund for Women and Girls 
• Youth Mentoring Partnership 

To support the Whitford Classic and learn more about the Whitford Charitable Fund, please visit whitfordcc.com/charitable-fund.