Greens of Hope 2024 wasn’t just an event; it was an experience—an elegant convergence of golf and giving.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the green rolling course at Willingdon Sports Club, the day unfolded as an elegant tapestry of sports, camaraderie, compassion, and community spirit.
Hosted by Ummeed Child Development Center, Friday began with a lively golf tournament, drawing seasoned players and spirited newcomers alike to one of Mumbai’s premier courses.
Conversations on the greens meandered between playing technique and strategy to the cause that brought everyone together: creating a more inclusive world for children with developmental disabilities. Players bought a significant number of Mulligans to support Ummeed programmes for children with developmental disabilities and enjoyed refreshments on the cabbage patch pre and post their rounds.
As twilight descended, the atmosphere transformed into one of festivity. Patrons of the cause, resplendent in evening wear, gathered at the Main Lawns of the Willingdon for a gala dinner that celebrated their shared love for golf, community and the enduring power of purpose. Live entertainment by India’s leading band, True Blue, set the tone for the night setting the soundtrack for mingling, laughter, and reflection.
Adding another layer of depth to the day’s proceedings was the remarkable art exhibition showcasing works by young neurodivergent artists. These pieces, filled with vivid colours and unfiltered emotions, were a testament to the potential that lies within every child, when given the chance to thrive. It was a poignant reminder of Ummeed’s mission—a mission that, as Shamin Mehrotra, Chief Officer – School Ecosystem & Mental Health, and Awareness, articulates, goes beyond intervention to create sustainable, systemic change.
“Keeping evolving needs and changes in the context of disability in mind, Ummeed is working to influence systemic change in the School, Healthcare, and Early Childhood Development and Disability ecosystems. This ensures we can make our communities and world a place where every child and family with or at risk for disability reach their maximum potential and be included in society,” says Mehrotra.
The evening’s highlights included the awards ceremony, honouring exceptional performances on the course, and a thrilling lucky draw with prizes that delighted everyone. A highlight was the pair of Saturday Night Live tickets to a Rehearsal taping of the show in New York. The lucky draw and tournament prize distribution got rounds of roaring applause for the crowd.
The generosity of sponsors Val Organics and ValueQuest, along with the support of Ummeed’s dedicated patrons, fuelled the success of the event. We also thank Radio Mirchi, BMW, Envi Salon, Willingdon Sports Club and Evolution Sports for their input.
Each mulligan purchased, each piece of art admired, and each story shared was a step toward a larger goal: supporting children and families on their journey toward inclusion and empowerment.
“The Greens of Hope evening truly reflected the power of purpose and the potential of inclusion. It has been an absolute privilege to craft content for it with the dedicated and passionate team at Ummeed.” said Freyan Bhathena, Founder, of Word It Well, part of the team for the event.
Greens of Hope 2024, the first golf event of the Non-Profit was a huge success. It served as a reminder that together; positive change is possible and inevitable. The evening ended on a high note, with a shared promise to build a world that celebrates potential and champions inclusion, with Ummeed Child Development Center.
