Warden’s Golf Tournament to launch new program helping Lanark County children access arts, sports, and opportunities

A long-standing Lanark County fundraising tradition will take on a new purpose this summer, with proceeds from the annual Warden’s Golf Tournament helping launch a new program aimed at removing financial barriers that prevent children from participating in sports, arts and other extracurricular activities.

This year’s tournament, scheduled for August 14, 2026 at Timber Run Golf Club, will support the newly established Active Kids, Bright Futures Program, a county initiative designed to help low-income families cover the costs of organized activities for children and youth, according to a release issued by the Town of Carleton Place last week.

According to county officials, the Warden’s Golf Tournament has traditionally raised money for a different local charity each year, generating approximately $12,000 in 2025.

In a report to the Community Services Committee last month, Director of Social Services Emily Hollington said this year’s revenue would be directed to the Active Kids, Bright Futures program.

Administered through the county’s Social Services Department, Active Kids, Bright Futures will provide eligible children and youth aged 17 and under with up to $500 per child each year to help cover registration costs for recreational and community-based activities. Officials explain that families will be able to apply through a county caseworker, who will assess household income and assets to determine eligibility.

Proposed by Lanark County Warden Richard Kidd, who also serves as reeve of Beckwith Township, the program was considered “a long-term investment option for revenue generated through the annual golf tournament,” according to the release, and received approval from county council last month.

“Having a county-managed program would provide caseworkers with an additional, flexible tool to support families,” Hollington shared. “It would enable more proactive engagement and allow caseworkers to help parents support their children by engaging them in valuable extracurricular activities.”

According to county officials, involvement in sports, arts and community organizations helps foster positive relationships with peers and mentors, provides routine and stability, improves school attendance and academic performance, develops life skills such as teamwork and perseverance, and strengthens children’s sense of belonging within their communities.

Eligible activities within the Active Kids, Bright Futures Program could include football, soccer, baseball, dance, music lessons, art classes, instructional summer camps, 4-H, Girl Guides and many other organized programs in the community.

Residents and businesses can support the program launch by participating in the tournament as a golfer or sponsoring the event through a cash donation, sponsoring a hole or dinner, or donating prizes for the tournament’s silent auction.

Lanark County Council has also committed $50,000 in 2026 to establish the program in addition to tournament revenue.

Registration for the golf tournament will cost $150 per golfer, which includes green fees, a golf cart, lunch and dinner. The event will also feature prizes, hole challenges and a silent auction.

More information, including registration and sponsoring options, can be accessed online on the Lanark County website.