Waitt Institute and the Sioux City Bandits

On May 5, 2008 Waitt Institute and the Sioux City Bandits teed off against Violence.  In the first annual golf tournament, the Bandits and the Institute shined their golf clubs and took a stand against violence in the Siouxland community.

Bandits General Manager and Managing Partner Bob Scott said, “We have seen and heard, over the last few years, about the efforts of the Waitt Institute to include men, fathers, coaches, and athletes in the prevention of violence, and thought this was a great partnership for us. We think the Institute’s work in the schools and community is important and much needed.”

On May 5th, over 100 local golfers contributed to the fight against violence when they appeared at Whispering Creek Golf Course.  The 1st annual golf tournament raised $12,000 for the public education campaign in Sioux City.  Along with the Sioux City Bandits, the United Way of Siouxland has joined the efforts to make private violence a public issue through public education.

At the Saturday home game following the golf tournament, Sioux City Bandits coach, Jarrod DeGeorgia read their pledge against violence:

The Sioux City Bandits know the reality of violence against women and children – as witnesses and victims, as friends and companions of those who have suffered.

That’s why we, the Sioux City Bandits, in support of our families, communities and workplaces, have committed to turn our private concern into public action.

We partner with Waitt Institute For Violence Prevention because we intend for this crucial beginning to give way to a new kind of society, where decency and respect require no special day on the calendar, where boys are taught that violence does not equal strength and where men stand with courage, lead with conviction and speak with one voice to say, “No more.”

Cindy Waitt, President of the Waitt Institute, said, “Bob actually called Alan Heisterkamp, our educational consultant, and offered to do this for us.  It’s a perfect opportunity for us to raise not only funds for our programs, but to raise awareness of the issue of violence against women as well.  We are really proud to partner with the Bandits organization.”

The partnership with Sioux City Bandits will continue to grow as plans are underway for the 2nd annual Charity Golf Event.  The date will be announced in the coming months.