On December 13th, the fairways of Sedgefield Country Club were filled with more than just golfers — they were filled with generosity, teamwork, and the true spirit of the season. The 10th Annual Sedgefield Angel Tree Open marked a milestone year for an event that began with a simple conversation and has since grown into one of Sedgefield’s most meaningful holiday traditions.

Founded in 2016 by Bob Bruggeworth and Kelli Young, the tournament has become a powerful example of what can happen when a community comes together with a shared purpose. This year’s event raised over $160,000, providing toys for more than 700 children and ensuring that every child also received a warm winter jacket — a gift of both joy and comfort during the colder months. As Kelli Young shared, “We are proud that every dollar we collect goes to the kids — the signs, the food, the alcohol, and the band are all donated!”

Behind the scenes, the success of Angel Tree Helpers is truly a team effort. Many Sedgefield residents play hands-on roles in making the magic happen. Sheryl Hamilton and her husband, Scott Hamilton, lead the setup of the donation center and take on much of the toy and coat purchasing for each child. Michelle Bruggeworth and other volunteers also serve as shoppers, carefully selecting gifts with each child in mind. Kelli Young oversees the purchase of tablets and covers, while Mark Whitesell coordinates bikes and helmets.

Packing and preparation are no small task. Volunteers from the Sedgefield Garden Club, Sedgefield Woman’s Club, and Sedgefield Country Club members dedicate over two weeks to sorting, packing, and organizing gifts. Planning for the event begins months in advance — typically in late September or early October — proving that generosity at this scale takes vision, commitment, and community.

Heartfelt thanks go to the Angel Tree Helpers board, Sedgefield members, donors, shoppers, Moonshine Mamas, and the incredible staff at Sedgefield Country Club, whose support and dedication make this event possible year after year. As founder Bob Bruggeworth shared, “I want to thank our board for making this such a successful event — Scott Hamilton, Richard Vanstory Jr., Ellen Boyer, Will Gregory, Mark Whitesell, and Kelli Young.”

The Sedgefield Angel Tree Open is a reminder that the holiday spirit isn’t just something we feel — it’s something we do. And once again, the Sedgefield community showed up in a big way, proving that it truly takes a village to make the season brighter for so many.