Talking Golf and Community with Amy Shuler Goodwin Marc Beacom and Keith Lewis

I am at the second annual Salvation Army Red Kettle Classic. I talk first with Charleston Mayor, Amy Shuler Goodwin who tells me her team included her husband Booth, Jim Strawn, and Renee Keeley. She says the day was hot but fun and that while there was no real competition a few swings at longest drive kept things interesting. She explains that the Salvation Army matters to Charleston because family focused organizations strengthen the community. She says to watch for an upcoming economic development announcement and the holiday events she loves most including Holly Jolly Brawley and the Christmas parade.

I then meet Marc Beacom who retired this year after forty years in the technology industry. He says retirement has been better than expected and that golf and events like this keep him busy. He adds that the Salvation Army is a ministry that serves people in meaningful ways. He shares how he stayed cool during the heat by adding electrolytes to his water and recommends it to anyone outdoors.

Keith Lewis says his team enjoyed playing together and supporting the Salvation Army’s mission. He notes that while people know the red kettles at Christmas their work extends much further in helping families in need. He says his team worked together rather than competing hard and looks forward to the event growing.

The Red Kettle Classic shows how local leaders and community members rally around a cause that reaches beyond the course. Each swing and each team represents more than a scorecard, it represents support for programs that meet needs year round.

As I wrap up at the clubhouse the conversations remind me that community effort is what makes progress possible. Whether it is city leadership, retirees with decades of experience, or first time players everyone shares in the purpose of helping others.