The Swinging With Purpose Story
Diana Riley, Founder with PGA Golf Hall of Famer and SWP Spokesperson, Nancy Lopez
When I made the transition to a full-time Naples, FL resident, I finally had the time and energy to make a difference in my Community. In line with that objective, I thought, what better way to do so than to combine my passion for golf with my passion for women and children. Why not invite golfers throughout the community to “swing with purpose” for those organizations making a difference in the lives of women and children who need a little help?
As karma would have it, I met and befriended Golf Legend and PGA Hall of Famer, Nancy Lopez, at an LPGA event held here in Naples in November, 2012. I shared my vision/dream, she offered her enthusiastic support, and from that chance meeting, Swinging With Purpose® became a reality.
Because there are so many deserving organizations, each year, the Swinging With Purpose® Board of Directors selects local grass roots charities serving the needs of the women, girls and children in our Community. Those charities become the beneficiaries of the Swinging With Purpose® initiatives for that year. To date, we have generated more than $1,200,000 in monetary and in-kind donations to our beneficiaries.
We can only be successful in making a difference in the lives of these women and children through the generosity of the community. I, the Swinging With Purpose® Board of Directors and our beneficiaries, thank you in advance for believing in the goals and mission of Swinging With Purpose® and for helping make its vision a reality.
I especially extend my personal thanks to our venue Sponsors who make our events a first class experience for the golfers with the majority of the proceeds going to our beneficiaries. You, along with the Naples community, the volunteer SWP Board, and the numerous volunteers who give selflessly of their time, tokens and talents, are responsible for our success. All of you make the mission of Swinging With Purpose® a reality!
And lastly, I extend my greatest gratitude to friend and mentor, Nancy Lopez, for encouraging me to follow my dream and for lending her name/voice to our mission.
With Gratitude,
Diana Riley, Founder