American author and life coach Tony Robbins stated, "The importance of giving back to society can't be understated, and that's because the secret to living is giving. If you really think about it, what is life all about? Creating meaning. How do you create meaning in your life? It's not about what you do for yourself: It's about how you're able to better the lives of people around you-your loved ones, the people in your community, or the lives of people somewhere else in the world." This month's "Love.Lift.Launch." highlight is about two men who understand the importance of giving back and whose selfless giving has helped to make the lives of new parents who have just received a Down syndrome diagnosis for their child better.
For the past 5-6 years, Paul Kushlan from the company Terralogic and Mike Bringhurst from Alpine Legal have sponsored the Cooper Bowden Memorial Golf Tournament. They were both introduced to this special event through their mutual friend, Travis Bowden, whose son, Cooper, had Down syndrome and passed away. For the last 13 years, all of the proceeds from this tournament have been donated to the Utah Down Syndrome Foundation to support its New Parent care package and breakfast programs.
When interviewed, both Paul and Mike said they have found added meaning in their lives as they have sponsored the golf tournament year after year. They both feel that the funds raised are going to a good cause - helping the Down syndrome community. Although neither Paul nor Mike has a child with Down syndrome, they enjoy coming to the golf tournament each year and interacting with the children and young adults with Down syndrome. Paul, who also sponsors the drink cart, said one of his favorite memories was the year when none of the golfers on his hole could get their putt in. Then one of the kids with Down syndrome came over and putted the ball right into the hole! Paul added that he likes this golf tournament because although his clients and employees come away with some good swag from the auction, the overall feeling is that it's about helping the kids with Down syndrome and not about themselves.
Although Paul and Mike could donate to other causes like adoption and cancer, which they identify more with, they choose to join with Travis in helping to champion the cause for Down syndrome. Thank you, Paul, Mike, and Travis for sponsoring the golf tournament year after year and for helping new parents find support, education, and outreach as they navigate their unique journey called Down syndrome.
This year's Cooper Bowden Golf Tournament will be taking place on Friday, September 18, 2020, at 7:30 am at the River Oaks Golf Course in Sandy, Utah. Register to become a sponsor and unlock the secret to a more meaningful life through giving while enjoying the game of golf. Pass it on to your friends and family as well. Registration opens next week. Visit udsf.org for more details. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, contact Cherlyn Johnson at 801 884-9108 or at ceo@udsf.org (If COVID-19 causes this tournament to be canceled, all registrations will be refunded).
