The Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County was in need of a helping hand for its newest venue. The Medical Center Foundation is stepping in to help that cause.

Today’s Medical Center Foundation golf tournament at Chicopee Woods Golf Course will raise funds that will go directly to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County and its new Joseph Walter Club, which —when constructed — will be located adjacent to Lyman Hall Elementary. Tournament organizers hope to raise $140,000 for the club’s new outdoor amenities as part of its healthy lifestyles programs.

“We are very appreciative that the Medical Center Foundation has been kind enough to donate their proceeds,” said Joyce Wilson, Vice President of Development and Marketing for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County.

Corporate sponsorship from Wachovia and McGarity’s is covering the underwriting costs associated with the tournament and pay for such things as shirts, food and greens fees. The tournament sold out all of its spots for players and will have more than 200 golfers taking part.

“We are very hopeful that we’ll reach our fundraising goal,” said Sonya Smith, annual gifts coordinator of the Medical Center Foundation.

Funds raised will be channeled toward building a multi-purpose athletic field, basketball court and playground at the Joseph Walters Club. The multi-purpose athletic field will be utilized by Boys & Girls Clubs participants, Atlanta Falcons Fitness activities, Lyman Hall Elementary, various recreational leagues, as well as the South Hall Junior Football organization.

The Boys & Girls Clubs will also receive a matching fund from the NFL’s Grassroots Program for constructing the main athletic field.

“We have the same vision for the Joseph Walters Club as we have at our location at Fair Street,” Wilson added.

Groundbreaking for the Joseph Walters complex has already taken place with a goal of opening early in 2010. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County hopes to have athletic amenities completed by the summer.