NextGen CNY Shop 'Til You Drop for Charity

‘tis the season of giving: a fun evening of networking and shopping for charity

The holiday season kicked off with a bang as NextGen CNY hosted its annual Shop ‘Til You Drop charity event! Over 30 independent insurance agents and company representatives donned their comfiest shopping shoes and biggest holiday smiles to support not one, not two, but THREE amazing causes.

Armed with shopping carts and holiday cheer, participants shopped for items benefiting Birthright of Syracuse, Golisano Children’s Hospital, and the Rescue Mission’s Runaway and Homeless Youth Shelter. From toys and clothes to much-needed essentials, the generosity on display was enough to make even Santa jealous.

It wasn’t just about giving back, though—the event buzzed with festive fun, from friendly chatter to spreading holiday magic together. Huge thanks to everyone who joined us to make this season brighter for those in need. Our hearts (and shopping bags) are full! 🎁🎄

Rain or Shine, A Great Day on the Greens

Golfers teed off at Timber Banks in Baldwinsville on June 24th to raise money for local charities

For the first time ever, Big I CNY held a 9-Hole Golf Social for new-to-the sport and recreational golfers. Six teams braved the sideways rain to play golf, help each other learn the game, and have fun.

More than 120 golfers participated in the 18-hole tournament. The rain dried up and the sun came out for a warm day of play. Golfers enjoyed several contests to show off their skills:

Mike Woodham won Closest to the Pin at 4' 1 1/4"

Kasey Vaughan had the Longest Drive for the women

Zak Ottman took the Longest Drive for men

David Wicker won the 50/50 Tee Shot

Paul Staring, Bill Gallagher, Josh Watkins, and Dan Connors placed second with a score of 61 (11 under par).

The first place team is Matt Briggs, Zak Ottman, Brett Bushinger, and Annalaura Werner with a score of 56 (16 under par).

Golfers enjoyed lunch, a social reception, and a chicken and steak dinner. Proceeds from the tournament and the raffles benefit local charities. Big I CNY wants to support your favorite charities.

Please email Allison Just at ajust@biginy.org with the name of your favorite local charity to be considered.

Big I CNY Golf Tournament 2022 Recap

It was a wonderful day for our sold-out 2022 Big I CNY Golf Tournament! We enjoyed picture-perfect weather and time to connect with friends, enjoy the course, and have fun. Thank you to our tournament sponsors who helped make this event possible!

Winners

First Place team with a score of 59: George Busch, Anto Almasian, Tom Lynch, Rich MacDonald

Second place team with a score of 60: Jen Winter, Joe Headd, Jeff Mirabito, Matt McGraw

50/50 Tee Shot winner: Joe Headd from Liberty Mutual. Donated his $290 winnings to the charity pool.

Longest Drive Men: Nick Masterpole

Longest Drive Women: Lindsay Richards

Closest to the Pin: Sean Sullivan

AirPod Pros and SU football tickets were also also awarded.

What’s Your Favorite Charity?

The Big I CNY Golf Tournament is a lot of fun, but we are serious about giving back to our community. After every golf tournament, we donate to local charities picked by YOU.

Email Allison Just at ajust@biginy.org the name of your favorite charity. We want to learn about all the great work they're doing and help them in their mission.

Survey

We want to hear about what you loved and what we can improve for next year’s tournament. Please take a moment and fill out our survey!