Rayonier Advanced Materials (RYAM) and United Way of Northeast Florida last week announced that RYAM raised $91,000, a new event record, for United Way during its 17th annual golf tournament in Fernandina Beach.
The United Way – RYAM Charity Golf Tournament occurred in November at The Amelia River Golf Club and The Golf Club of Amelia. Organized by RYAM’s Fernandina Beach plant, the event drew nearly 200 participants, including Northeast Florida business and community members, RYAM employees, and United Way staff, in addition to friends and family of both organizations.
“At RYAM, we have a long history of supporting the United Way to help families in need meet their full potential,” said Mark Homans, the General Manager at RYAM’s Fernandina Beach plant. “We’re proud to give back to this community and support nonprofits in Northeast Florida that are delivering the resources required to address some of the toughest challenges in our neighborhoods.”
Since its inception, the tournament has raised $812,000 for partner agencies and the community.
“The support of the RYAM team is essential to improving economic mobility in our community,” said Melanie Patz, President and CEO of United Way of Northeast Florida. “We are grateful for RYAM’s generosity and the generosity of the tournament sponsors and participants, as are the countless families who will benefit from their efforts.”
The proceeds from this tournament will enhance the well-being of youth and families in Fernandina Beach and throughout Nassau County, through United Way and the organization’s collaborative network of partners. Funds raised during the tournament will be used to:
- Provide access to food
- Create housing stability
- Support mental health programs
- Strengthen financial well-being
- Promote diversity in our communities
“We’ve had a deep passion for this tournament and United Way for a long time,” shared Jeff Scott, Engineering Manager at RYAM’s Fernandina Beach plant, who has organized the event for 17 years. “It’s far more than just golf – it’s about making a positive impact in our community. It’s rewarding to know that each year the proceeds support some of the most important nonprofits in Fernandina Beach and Nassau County.”