PELHAM – The Arc of Shelby County, in tandem with Magic City Indoor Golf, has announced an event perfect for those looking to hit the links for a good cause.

The Magic City Indoor Golf Charity Night, which exclusively benefits The Arc of Shelby County, will be held on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025 at Magic City Indoor Golf from 4-8 p.m.

The event will feature indoor golf while raising funds for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Shelby County community.

Participants will have the opportunity to play the Augusta National golf course, which hosts The Masters, via Magic City Indoor Golf’s various simulators. The format of the event is a nine-hole, four-person scramble, with 16 golfers per the two time slots, 4-6 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Participants can sign up as an individual or with a team, and the cost for the event is $60 per golfer.

Carole Lyons, the director of Development and Community Relations for The Arc of Shelby County, gave some background on why Magic City Indoor Golf chose to partner with them for this event.

“Neil Thompson, owner and golf pro, and his wife, Christy Thompson are supporters of The Arc of Shelby County and offered to host this charity night to raise money for our programs and services,” Lyons said.

Lyons also added that the event itself is unique due to its focus and activities.

“Magic City Indoor Golf Charity Night stands out from other fundraising events due to its combination of interactive entertainment, community involvement and support for a great cause,” Lyons said. “Magic City provides a fun and engaging golf experience for participants of all skill levels. Whether you’re an avid golfer or a beginner, everyone can enjoy playing on state-of-the-art indoor golf simulators, making it an exciting activity that draws in a diverse crowd.”

The atmosphere of the event, according to Lyons, is designed to be inviting.

“The event focuses on a laidback, social experience where attendees can have fun, connect with friends and network while supporting a meaningful cause,” Lyons said. “This unique setting encourages people to relax, participate and enjoy the evening, creating a welcoming environment for all.”

According to Lyons, the event isn’t particularly designed for those who are proficient at golf.

“Golfers at all levels are welcome to come play for two hours to work on their golf skills, have fun and enjoy swinging their clubs,” Lyons said.

Lyons also shared the mission behind The Arc of Shelby County and its general goals.

“For 50 years, The Arc of Shelby County has provided a support system for infants, children and adults who face the daily challenges of disabilities,” Lyons said. “We serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by offering a relationship that lasts as far as needed in one’s life. Through early intervention, employment services, community services and through our Adult Day Habitation program, New Visions, we are there for families and individuals at all stages of life.”

While the Magic City Indoor Golf Charity Night starts the year off for fundraising for The Arc of Shelby County, it is not the only event the organization has planned.

“We are also planning several other fundraiser signature events for 2025,” Lyons said. “In April we will have our Annual Dash & Dine 5K and Fun Run. On May 1, we will host our Swinging Fore Achievement Golf Tournament at Ballantrae. In June we will host our first Pickleball Tournament Fundraiser, and on Aug. 23, we will have our Tailgate and Cook Off event at Beer Hog.”

Lyons emphasized the importance of the event as a whole and to her personally.

“As a mother of a child who was speech delayed, I was unaware 21 years ago that the Arc existed and went through hoops to get support and services for my son,” Lyons said. “Knowing that through fundraising, and events like the Magic City Indoor Golf event to benefit the Arc, awareness is made about the mission and vision, and that services can be offered at no cost to families. We hope that people will know that through advocacy, coaching and support, The Arc of Shelby County empowers individuals with developmental disabilities and delays and their families to achieve their goals. Their contributions are appreciated by our staff, our board of directors and the individuals and families we serve.”

For more information on the Magic City Indoor Golf Charity Night, visit the Arc of Shelby County’s Facebook page at Facebook.com/thearcofshelbyco.