Supporting Volunteers: Leigh Ann Eshelman
When Leigh Ann Eshelman and her husband retired to the Pinehurst area in 2018, she immediately determined to“ give back” in a way that served her newfound golf community and her passion for helping families. It didn’ t take long for her to find a fulfilling role through the U. S. Kids Golf Foundation and its World Championships, held in the Pinehurst area.
“ I think I’ ve worked about every volunteer spot at the World Championships,” Leigh Ann said. She is now starting her second year as Volunteer Chairman.“ From Uniform Distribution to Course Captains to everything else in between, I’ ve really enjoyed being a part of all of the different pieces that create this wonderful experience.”
Eshelman is also quick to note that she does have a favorite aspect of the mission.“ The best people take part in the World Championship- from families who come from around the world, to the staff and directors, to the volunteers who give up their time and resources to make it all happen.” Leigh Ann adds,“ Of course, don’ t forget the players are so incredible. Have you seen them play? I always tell people you could be watching a future major champion in any given group. They are just amazing.”
“ Volunteers like Leigh Ann are invaluable, to say the least,” claims Chris Vonderkall, the Vice-President of the U. S. Kids Golf Foundation and head of the Tournaments group.“ It’ s not just showing up, or handing out water, or checking kids in – it’ s how they represent the culture and mission that truly stands out. They are the embodiment of giving. We couldn’ t have these championships, and these families wouldn’ t get this experience without the volunteers stepping up like they always do.”
Leigh Ann believes she gets as much out of volunteering her time as the families who she helps serve.“ It certainly gives me purpose,” she says of her time as a U. S. Kids Golf volunteer. It’ s connected me with great people, and we get the best reward seeing how it all comes together and having families enjoy themselves like they do. It is always a treat when we so often hear“ Thank you for volunteering” and“ We appreciate you.”