Dozens of local charities gathered at John Deere World Headquarters in Moline to pick up materials for this year's Birdies For Charity fundraiser. The annual event raises money based on birdies scored by pro golfers during the John Deere Classic.
Residents will pledge to their favorite charities according to the birdies, and John Deere will match that amount, dollar for dollar.
Tournament chairman Clair Peterson says last year's drive set a record, raising nearly $11 million.
"Our mission is to raise money for charity, improve the quality of life in the Quad Cities. Economic impact study proved that $53 million of economic impact are tied to the John Deere Classic...$21 million is reinvested."
Birdies for Charity director Kristy Ketchum-Jackson says this is just the beginning of a months-long fundraising process.
"Signing up your charity is just the first step...we're looking forward to the next three months being very busy, with a lot of pledges coming in."
About 500 local charities participate in Birdies For Charity each year.
