Gem City Kiwanis raises $28,147 at 25th annual Sammy and Kids golf outing at Sammy Celebration

QUINCY — During its Sammy Celebration on Dec. 6 at the American Legion, Gem City Kiwanis (Breakfast Kiwanis) announced this year’s Sammy and Kids golf outing raised $28,147 on Oct. 13 at Westview Golf Course.

The event was the 25th in memory of 10-year old Samantha Otte, who died from complications of cystic fibrosis.

This is the 10th year Breakfast Kiwanis has continued this charitable endeavor started by family and friends of Chuck and June Otte in Samantha’s memory. Funds from the event are donated to area programs serving children.

In a press release, June Otte said, “It’s hard to believe it has been 25 years. Samantha had so much energy and spirit, despite her illness. We are grateful that Breakfast Kiwanis and the community honor her memory with these generous donations for many area children. Thank you so much.”

Catherine Bocke Meckes, chief executive officer of the Community Foundation added, “Your contributions will support children’s programs in many ways throughout the year.”

Proceeds from this year’s event were allocated as follows:

• $7,000 was donated directly to the Sammy Fund.
• $7,000 was donated to The Community Foundation – Samantha Otte Youth Opportunity Fund.
• Gem City Kiwanis Foundation will include the remaining proceeds in its normal grant process in April 2025.

Event chair Bruce Gardner said, “We have to thank our major sponsors, hole sponsors, players, contributors and many volunteers for making the event a success.”

Major sponsors were Niemanns, Refreshment Services Pepsi, Quincy Herald-Whig and WGEM.

Next year’s outing is planned for Sunday, Oct. 12.

Breakfast Kiwanis meets every Friday at 7 a.m. at the American Legion, 116 N. Eighth, and via Zoom. The organization, whose mission is to “serve the children of the world,” does several fundraisers and donates thousands of hours annually for area children and community programs.