Login | August 03, 2025
Registration underway for veterans fundraiser on Aug. 9
SHERRY KARABIN
Legal News Reporter
Published: August 1, 2025
Summit and Portage County residents looking to enjoy a miniature golf outing while contributing to a good cause are encouraged to register for an upcoming fundraising event.
On Aug. 9, Axess Family Services Inc. and Kent American Legion Post 496 are partnering to hold their first-ever miniature golf tournament to benefit veterans.
The event kicks off at 10:30 a.m. at Station 300 in Akron and is followed by a cookout lunch at Kent American Legion Post 496 on Mogadore Road.
“Most people are familiar with golf outing fundraisers,” said Matt Slater, director of development at Axess Family Services. “This event is slightly different since it’s meant to attract families and other individuals who may not be good golfers, but are looking for an enjoyable way to spend the day.
“It’s an opportunity for families and friends to get together while raising money for programs that benefit homeless veterans.”
According to Point-in-Time Estimates in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s 2024 annual Homelessness Assessment report (https://www.hudexchange.info/news/hud-releases-2024-ahar-report/#:~:text=The%20Department%20of%20Veterans%20Affairs,39%20percent%20from%202023%2D2024.), there were 32,882 veterans experiencing homelessness on a single night in January 2024.
While the number represents nearly an 8% drop from 2023 when there were 35,574 people, Slater said securing housing for veterans continues to be a significant challenge in the U.S.
“There is a major need for affordable housing and facilities that can get veterans off the street and help them secure benefits so they can obtain permanent housing,” said Slater.
Previously known as Family & Community Services, Axess Family Services provides a wide variety of social services in the area ranging from primary healthcare, dentistry and behavioral health to housing for homeless veterans and families, people fleeing intimate violence, Big Brothers Big Sisters, congregate food sites and pantries.
The proceeds of the Aug. 9 event will be split between Kent American Legion Post 496 and two Axess programs--the Harry Donovan Jr. Valor Home in Akron, which provides transitional housing for up to 30 homeless veterans and Freedom House in Kent, which can offer up to 14 beds for homeless veterans.
“We’ve done golf outings in the past,” said Slater. “This one is unique in that it will not only help raise money for our veterans programs but it involves a partnership with Kent American Legion Post 496.
“There are so many different posts in the area that do so much for our veterans that we are excited to do something for them.
“We are hoping that this will become an annual event.”
The Aug. 9 miniature golf tournament costs $30 per person and participants are required to register in advance.
Attendees should show up at Station 300 on E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. in Akron at 9:30 a.m. to check in prior to the tournament’s shotgun start at 10:30 a.m.
For more information call 330-785-2050 ext. 1637 or go to https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/putt-fore-patriots-mini-golf-event.