Burlington, VT – Nearly 200 golfers turned out for the 34th annual University of Vermont Children’s Hospital Golf Classic earlier this summer, helping to raise more than $181,000 to support care for pediatric patients and their families throughout Vermont and northern New York. 

In addition to 49 teams participating throughout the day at Burlington Country Club, the event also featured a silent auction with donations from 69 businesses. It was the Golf Classic’s most successful silent auction ever, raising $7,000. 

The event is supported by dedicated corporate sponsors and volunteers who donate their time and energy to help make the Golf Classic an annual success for Vermont’s only children’s hospital. 

Funds from the Golf Classic, which this year raised a total of $181,810.75, generally benefit Children’s Hospital programs. Recently, community support has helped expand the Child Life Program – which supports children during their hospital stay by focusing on their psychological and social health – as well as improvements in emergency equipment and facilities for infants and children. 

“The programs and services made possible by the funds raised from our UVM Children’s Hospital Golf Classic are so important in our mission to meet the physical, mental and social needs of the children and families we serve in this region,” said Lewis R. First, MD, chief of Pediatrics at UVM Children’s Hospital. “Thanks to the fundraising and ‘friendraising’ that occur through this event year after year, we can continue to provide the highest quality, child-friendly, family centered pediatric care possible. And for that, we are most grateful.” 

The Golf Classic included a tribute to Dr. First, the longest-serving pediatric chair in the country. Dave Farrington, owner of longtime Golf Classic lead sponsor Farrington Construction of Shelburne, Vermont, was among those who spoke about the legacy of Dr. First, who has led the department for more than three decades. 

“This golf tournament is one of the many things that Lewis has done for decades to not only build community but also to garner support for the patients and families that UVM Children’s Hospital serves,” Farrington said. “You couldn’t find a more dedicated, energetic, tireless and impactful leader. It’s an honor to celebrate him and the amazing work of everyone at UVM Children’s Hospital by sponsoring this event each year.” 

Over the life of the Golf Classic, the event has raised nearly $3.5 million for UVM Children’s Hospital.