Fore! Kootenai golfers to raise money for 4-H

COEUR d'ALENE — Dustin Ainsworth and friends will be hitting the links for 54 holes June 4. Yes, in part because they enjoy golf, but primarily to benefit the area's nonprofits.

The fifth annual Coeur54 will see 16 players start their day at Coeur d'Alene Golf Club. Next, they’ll head to Avondale Golf Club in Hayden Lake and wrap up their day at Hayden Lake Country Club.

This year's major beneficiary will be 4-H programs in Kootenai County. 

"Any time we can make an impact on youth — life skills, quality of life — if we can make an impact that's where our goal is," Ainsworth said.

Teresa Balderrama, local 4-H extension educator, said the funds from Coeur54 will go toward a STEM learning center in Coeur d'Alene.

She said there are about 750 Kootenai County youth involved in 4-H, making it the largest program in the state.

Previous main beneficiaries from Coeur54 include CdAIDE, Village of Hope, First Tee of North Idaho, Newby-ginnings and Specialized Needs Recreation. Other nonprofits have also received funds. 

All told, Coeur54 has raised more than $100,000 for Kootenai County nonprofits. This year's goal is $50,000.

The 54 Foundation was founded in 2020 by a group of eight guys with a passion for golf and the desire to assist nonprofits in Kootenai County. It has since grown to 16 golfers who play 54 holes of golf at three courses in one day.

They play each round in about three and a half hours and keep score for top honors and awards. They'll be posting scores hole by hole.

"We're competitive," Ainsworth said. 

Ainsworth said they are glad to not only raise money, but also to raise awareness of nonprofits and the good work they do.

"These are the kind of organizations that need community support," he said.

The golfers are asking for $1 or more per hole, and donations can be made in the name of any of the 16 individual golfers at www.coeur54.com.