The Wills Group announced the company will host its 7th annual Blackie Wills Golf Classic on Monday, September 11. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Blackie Wills Community Leadership Fund, dedicated to investing in programs that address the basic needs of underserved populations and revitalize public spaces, according to a company press release.

The fund was created for former Wills Group president, Julian Blacklock “Blackie” Wills, who championed numerous non-profit and civic initiatives during his tenure.

Since 2017, the annual Blackie Wills Golf Classics have raised over $2 million for the fund. Last year’s golf classic raised over $342,000. This year, the company aims to raise over $400,000, and the funds raised will support its two community engagement signature programs: Nourishing Children and Families and Reimagining Outdoor Spaces.

Wills Group’s Reimagining Outdoor Spaces initiative focuses on transforming neglected outdoor areas into vibrant community spaces, such as revitalizing neglected playgrounds. Meanwhile, the company’s Nourishing Children and Families engagement program supports regional foodbanks and organizations dedicated to providing nutritious meals for children and their families.

Additionally, Stewart’s Shops recently made a $15,000 dollar donation to the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York for the food bank’s freight farm. The freight farm is a hydroponic farm that will allow the food bank to grow healthy food for communities in need throughout every season.