FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — The roofing community made a splash in South Florida with the largest non-corporate donation to The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida as well as a substantial donation to the International Game Fish Association (IGFA).

The Roofing Contractors Association of South Florida (RCASF) is a not-for-profit trade association whose purpose is to educate and foster a high standard of business ethics among roofing contractors and associate members. RCASF members endeavor to give back to their community throughout the year by hosting several charitable events. The RCASF Fishing Tournament is the association's largest annual philanthropic effort. This year, the RCASF Fishing Tournament raised $225,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation and $25,000 for the IGFA's Junior Angler's Educational Program.

"It was astonishing to see roofing contractor after roofing contractor stand up when the call came for a Make-A-Wish Signature Sponsorship donation of $5,000 to grant the wish of one child," said Senior Committee Member Erica Bergeron. "People just kept standing up and waving their credit cards. It made me proud to be a part of this industry of giving individuals."

The tournament was held on June 12 at Hawk's Cay Resort on Duck Key with an attendance of over 500 people. A banquet followed featuring the catch of the day; mahi-mahi. The guest of honor, Lauren Potter, spoke eloquently about her experience as a "wish child" and how it impacted her life.

"There wasn't a dry eye in the house," said Anthony Utter, senior tournament committee member.

Make-A-Wish Southern Florida COO, Richard Kelly remarked how amazed he was by the roofing community's generosity. The awards ceremony was held at the IGFA on Aug. 4.

"We are inspired by the work Make-A-Wish does to brighten the lives of children diagnosed with critical illnesses," said Corey Daley, of Daley Brothers Roofing and fishing tournament committee chairman. "We understand the impact that a 'wish' has on a child. It allows these kids to focus on a dream rather than hospitals and treatments. We are proud to support programs that can provide hope, inspiration and happiness, especially in the lives of children."

As a non-profit receiving no government funding, Make-A-Wish relies on the support of donors to make wish granting possible.

"RCASF truly believes in our wish granting mission," said Norm Wedderburn, CEO and president of the Make-A-Wish Foundation Southern Florida. "RCASF has literally changed the lives of thousands of people; children and their families, who are affected by critical illnesses. We are very grateful to RCASF for their continued support."

The RCASF Fishing Committee, a group of civic minded member/volunteers, has already begun planning for next year's tournament. The date is set for June 10-12, 2022 at Hawk's Cay Resort with the goal of brightening the lives of even more children. Donations of fishing related items for auction and financial sponsorships are encouraged. If you would like to contribute or learn more, visit www.RCASF.org.