I recently got the chance to visit with Blake Duesterhaus, Sod Buster Classic Committee Member, regarding the Sod Buster Classic and how this yearly fundraiser gives back to the community. The Sod Buster Classic came to fruition in 2013 and was inspired by a similar fundraiser in Greene County, Illinois. A group of now committee members attended that fundraiser and were inspired to start something similar locally that gave back to the community and did not have predetermined candidates. The Sod Buster committee takes great pride in being able to select candidates and present their donations. Blake was gracious in answering all my questions surrounding the Sod Buster Classic.
Q: What is the Sod Buster Classic?
A: The Sod Buster Classic is a putt-putt golf fundraiser that raises money for families in need and organizations in the Quincy/Mendon/Ursa, Ill., area.
Q: How often does the Sod Buster Classic happen?
A: This fundraiser takes place on the third
Saturday of March every year. On the day of the event, teams will meet at the Ursa Farmers Coop Administrative Office located at 2397 IL-96, in Ursa, IL.
Q: Who makes the Sod Buster Classic a reality?
A: The Sod Buster Committee, a group of local farmers, business owners and other community members, come together to plan and coordinate each event. The Sod Buster Classic would not exist without the determination of our over 20 committee members that go above and beyond. We all must work in coordination to make sure the event is a success and lives up to the expectations of the Sod Buster community and those we have had the privilege to help along the way.
Q: What are the criteria around applying for funds and how is the decision made to fund requests?
A: There is no direct criteria for applying for a Sod Buster donation. Many of our potential recipients have been found by committee members. This could be a personal or professional relationship with them, it could be a social media post, or another fundraiser that was brought to our attention.
Q: Is the Sod Busters Classic the only fundraiser or how is this non-profit funded?
A: The putt-putt event is only one of the fund-raising efforts that go into the Sod Buster Classic. We have other fundraisers that go towards the setup, organization, and donations of the event. These include, a $50 raffle ticket drawing, 50/50 drawing sales the day of the event, multiple “side hustles” at select locations, and a list of sponsors that will provide anything from monetary donations to food and support items that help the event succeed. Our $50 raffle is a limited quantity raffle that allows three winners, each for one of the raffle items. These items often include cash, Cardinal’s tickets plus cash and a firearm specifically elected by the Sod Buster Committee. Our putt-putt holes have gotten more creative over the years. This has allowed for side games and raffles to help offset some of the set-up costs and put more towards our potential donations.
Q: How much money has Sodbusters raised to date?
A: The Sod Buster Fundraiser has raised over $330,000 for local families and organizations over the past 13 years.
Q: How can people donate or request funds?
A: We do have points of contact that potential donors or recipients can use to contact us with their inquiries. Our most easily accessed points include our website, https://www.sodbusterclassic.com/sponsors/ or a Facebook message, https://www.facebook.com/SodBusterClassic. Our Sod Buster Committee is also a main point of contact for sponsors, donations, and potential recipients.
Q: Anything else you want to include?
A: The Sod Buster Classic is a community-driven event crafted to create meaningful impact. We don’t only view our committee members as an integral part to our community, but also everyone who participates, donates, or relies on our support during times of need. We can’t wait for this year’s event and hope to continue to expand our community further, fostering ongoing positive change. The 14th Annual Sod Buster Classic is scheduled for Saturday, March 14th. Teams of 4 are welcome to register ahead of day and even day of. This year’s theme is Putt Putt in your Pajamas.
For more information on this event and more please visit their website or facebook page.
Submitted by Allison Housewright
