MountainStar Tees Up Golfing Fundraiser: Birdies 4 Babies program aimed at local golfers.

Bend, OR May 1, 2006: MountainStar Family Relief Nursery today announced "Birdies 4 Babies," a fundraising program started by several local golfers and supporters of MountainStar. Proceeds from Birdies 4 Babies will support MountainStar’s child abuse and neglect prevention program that serves at-risk families with babies and toddlers. The Birdies 4 Babies program invites golfers of all abilities to collect money for birdies (one under PAR) made during the golf season. Each golfer is asked to donate their birdie money to MountainStar.

The Birdies 4 Babies program was started by golfing locals; Kathy Murch, Joanne Michael, Susan Battistella, Melinda Bailey, Shelly Hummel and Susan Weir. Many golfers follow the tradition that rewards birdies with a dollar or two paid to the player. Last year this small group of women collected their birdie money and donated over $500 to MountainStar. According to Kathy Murch, MountainStar Board President: "Last summer, the five of us girls had a great time trying to make birdies. When we succeeded, our fellow golfers were more than happy to contribute with the knowledge that this birdie money would be used to help the many children and families served by MountainStar. This year, we decided to roll out our grassroots fundraiser to the larger community. We hope that many golfers, both men and women, will join us in making Birdies 4 Babies and receive the added satisfaction that comes from helping Deschutes County’s most vulnerable children." To receive a Birdies 4 Babies fundraising kit for your golf bag, please contact MountainStar at 541-322-6820.

MountainStar Family Relief Nursery is a child abuse and neglect prevention program. It is the only program in Deschutes County that provides comprehensive services to prevent child abuse and neglect in at-risk families with children, ages 6 weeks to 4 years. MountainStar serves families with multiple risk factors for child abuse/neglect, including unemployment, heavy childcare responsibilities, drug/alcohol abuse, domestic violence and connections with the criminal justice system. At MountainStar, wrap-around services including an Outreach Program, a Therapeutic Classroom, and Core Services (home visits, parenting classes, basic needs assistance) are provided at no-cost for families. In recognition of its non-profit work and contributions to the community, in March 2006 MountainStar was given the first ever Organization of the Year award by the Bend Chamber of Commerce.

MountainStar Family Relief Nursery is located at 2125 NE Daggett Lane in Bend. Informational tours of the facility are given on the first Tuesday (5:00 - 6:00 PM) and the third Friday (12:30 – 1:30 PM) of every month. If you would like to take a tour or would like to receive more information on MountainStar, call 541-322-6820.

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