Golf classic raises $195,000 for Samaritan Center

By AI, Created 2:36 PM UTC, June 04, 2026, /AGP/ – The 20th Annual Bernard & Betty Egan Memorial Golf Classic brought in $195,000 on May 16 in Vero Beach to support Samaritan Center’s transitional housing and services for families facing homelessness and housing instability in Indian River County. More than 200 supporters took part in the fundraiser, which marked two decades of community backing for the program.

Why it matters: - The $195,000 raised will support Samaritan Center’s housing, shelter and case-management services for families in Indian River County. - Samaritan Center provides a 24-hour safe haven for families experiencing homelessness and housing instability. - The program offers temporary shelter, life essentials, case management and educational programming aimed at long-term stability and independence. - The fundraiser helps keep a local support network in place for families with dependent children.

What happened: - Samaritan Center and the Samaritan Center Advisory Committee hosted the 20th Annual Bernard & Betty Egan Memorial Golf Classic on Saturday, May 16, at Pointe West Country Club in Vero Beach. - More than 200 local supporters, golfers and community leaders attended. - The event raised $195,000 for Samaritan Center. - The tournament marked two decades of community support tied to the Egan family’s tradition.

The details: - Catholic Charities Diocese of Palm Beach said The Bernard A. Egan Foundation, the presenting sponsor, matched all sponsorship contributions dollar for dollar. - Participants spent the day on golf, community engagement and philanthropy. - Ellen T. Wayne, chief executive officer of Catholic Charities Diocese of Palm Beach, said the event reflects the compassion and generosity of the Vero Beach community. - Renee Bireley, development manager for Samaritan Center, said the tournament helps families access stability, support and hope during difficult times. - The organization thanked volunteers, committee members, golfers, sponsors and community partners for supporting the annual tradition. - More information about Catholic Charities’ work with Samaritan Center is available here.

Between the lines: - The golf classic is doing more than fundraising; it is reinforcing a long-running local support system for families in crisis. - The matching sponsorship from The Bernard A. Egan Foundation likely amplified the event’s fundraising impact. - The 20-year milestone signals sustained community commitment, which can matter for a program that relies on recurring support.

What’s next: - The Samaritan Center will continue using event proceeds to support transitional housing and family services. - Catholic Charities Diocese of Palm Beach will keep operating Samaritan Center as part of its broader social services network across five counties. - The annual golf classic is positioned to remain a key fundraiser for the program.