David Ortiz’s Celebrity Golf Classic: Raising Funds for Children’s Heart Surgeries

David Ortiz Hosts Annual Celebrity Golf Classic

David Ortiz recently hosted the 16th annual “Weekend with Papi” Celebrity Golf Classic in Marco Island, Florida. This event aims to raise funds for children in the Dominican Republic and New England who need open heart surgeries.

Ortiz has devoted over 16 years to this cause through his foundation. He emphasized the importance of this golf tournament in generating funds, which come from sponsorships and online auctions. Ortiz stated, “We raise money to save kids’ lives. We have been able to take care of more than 1,600 kids throughout the years.”

Living in the Dominican Republic, Ortiz witnesses the impact of his foundation firsthand. He often receives gratitude from families who benefit from the surgeries funded by his efforts. Ortiz stated, “Many people don’t have the funds to pay for this surgery. It’s been amazing.”

The idea for his foundation began when a friend showed him a hospital where children struggled after heart surgery. One child was the same age as Ortiz’s son. This moment inspired Ortiz to help children facing similar challenges.

For this year’s event, the fundraising goal was set at $1,775,000. Many baseball stars participated, including Pedro Martinez, Johnny Damon, and Derek Jeter. Celebrities from other fields, such as actors Anthony Mackie and Anthony Anderson, also joined, adding excitement to the event.

Ortiz remembered the late Tim Wakefield, who contributed significantly to his foundation. Ortiz stated, “Wake supported this foundation for so long that we always remember him during this event.”

This annual golf classic highlights Ortiz’s commitment to improving children’s lives and the ongoing support from the community and fellow celebrities.