The annual sporting clays competition at Jefferson Island is set to bring together enthusiasts and philanthropists alike, aiming to support Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Louisiana (RMHCSLA). This unique event offers participants the chance to engage in one of America's fastest-growing sports while contributing to a noble cause that eases the burdens faced by families with critically ill children.

A Celebration of Community Spirit and Generosity

This event isn’t just about shooting clays; it’s an opportunity for local businesses and sportsmen to rally behind a mission that touches countless lives.

Empowering Families Through Charity

At the heart of this initiative lies RMHCSLA, whose primary objective is to provide comfort and support to families navigating their child's medical journey. By offering a "home away from home," the organization ensures these families have access to essential resources during challenging times. For instance, since its inception in 1983, RMHCSLA has supported over 30,000 families from various regions across the United States. These efforts are exemplified through facilities such as the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Our Lady of Lourdes Women’s & Children’s Hospital, which provides free lodging and meals to those in need.The significance of such a facility cannot be overstated. Imagine being miles away from home, dealing with the emotional turmoil of your child’s health issues. Having a place where you can rest, eat a warm meal, and connect with others facing similar struggles makes all the difference. The contributions raised during events like the Kids & Clays Open directly fuel these services, ensuring they remain accessible to everyone who requires them.

An Engaging Sporting Experience

For participants, the allure of the Kids & Clays Open extends beyond charitable giving—it offers an exhilarating day filled with sport and camaraderie. Competitors will traverse a meticulously designed Promatic course featuring a 72-bird round of sporting clays. Regardless of skill level, each individual will receive guidance from certified instructors, making the experience inclusive and enjoyable for beginners and seasoned marksmen alike.Beyond the main attraction, attendees can look forward to additional perks, including complimentary golf carts, ear and eye protection, registrant gifts, and access to necessary equipment. A hearty lunch awaits after the competition, providing ample opportunity for networking and socializing. Furthermore, raffles and auctions promise exciting prizes ranging from outdoor gear to luxurious trips, adding another layer of excitement to the proceedings.

A Testament to Local Collaboration

The success of this event hinges on the dedication of numerous local business owners and leaders who volunteer their time and expertise. Among them are several McDonald's owner-operators and representatives from McIlhenny Company. Their involvement underscores the importance of community partnerships in driving meaningful change.Take, for example, Haley Miller, a local McDonald's owner-operator whose passion for supporting vulnerable families drives her commitment to this cause. She emphasizes the profound impact that continued backing from local businesses and sportsmen can have on sustaining RMHCSLA’s vital services. Such testimonials highlight the collective effort required to maintain high standards of care and assistance for families in crisis.

Participating Made Simple

Registration options cater to diverse preferences, whether you're joining as part of a team or individually. Teams of four begin at $1,200, while individual entries cost $325 per person. Sponsorships remain available, offering exclusive benefits such as tickets to the Patron Party held the evening prior. Notably, no prior experience is necessary to participate fully in this rapidly expanding sport. With expert coaching provided on-site, even novices can confidently join in the fun and competition.Grace McIntosh, CEO of RMHCSLA, expresses heartfelt gratitude toward the Kids & Clays Foundation and the diligent committee volunteers responsible for orchestrating this annual gathering. Their relentless dedication ensures the continuation of life-altering aid to families confronting critical pediatric care needs within the community and beyond.

Join the Movement

Scheduled to occur at Jefferson Island—located at 4619 Rip Van Winkel Rd., New Iberia—the third annual Kids & Clays Open promises to deliver more than just a thrilling day of clay shooting. It embodies the spirit of unity and compassion, bringing together individuals committed to alleviating hardships faced by families seeking medical attention for their children. As Grace McIntosh aptly remarks, the steadfast contributions of partners and volunteers empower RMHCSLA to uphold exceptional standards of care and hope when it matters most. Those interested in securing tickets or sponsorships should visit the official website for further details.Through this remarkable event, participants not only indulge in a popular pastime but also contribute significantly to transforming lives—one family at a time.