JCB, the world’s largest family owned heavy equipment manufacturer, hosted its ninth Lady Bamford Center Golf Tournament on Oct. 17 at The Club at Savannah Harbor. The tournament is held annually as part of JCB’s fundraising events to benefit The Lady Bamford Center. This year’s tournament raised $85,000 through 164 golfers and sponsorships.

“Giving back to the communities in which we work and live is intrinsic to the JCB culture. Through this annual golf tournament, and the generous support of our suppliers, dealers and friends, we are able to raise and contribute substantial funding in support of the early childhood development programs at The Lady Bamford Center,” said Arjun Mirdha, president and CEO of JCB North America.

Created and opened in 2007 by Lady Carole Bamford, wife of JCB owner Lord Anthony Bamford, The Lady Bamford Center is a partnership between JCB, The City of Savannah, Wesley Community Centers and The United Way of the Coastal Empire. The center provides education and social skills development to 83 local children from six weeks to four years of age with demand so large that there’s a waiting list of more than 100 children.

Located at 1410 Richards St. in West Savannah, the center offers priority admission to children from homeless and low-income families, as well as children with physical, mental or emotional challenges. Its interactive curriculum prepares young children for kindergarten and elementary school to help them compete academically with other children. The Lady Bamford Center is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Fewer than eight percent of all early childhood centers in the United States receive this prestigious honor.

Tony Whitehurst, tournament chairman and general manager of JCB Finance said, “This year marks our 9th golf tournament and our most successful to date in terms of participation and funds raised. This success would not be possible without the dedication of our suppliers and dealers who mirror our desire to give back through fund raising efforts for The Lady Bamford Center. We look forward to continuing this annual golf tournament for many years to come.”

In addition to the annual golf tournament, JCB hosts “MudFest — Run. Ride. Party!” in June each year to benefit The Lady Bamford Center. MudFest features a 5 mi. run in the mud and over obstacles built around JCB North America’s headquarters in Savannah, Ga. Together the events serve to raise $200,000 annually to support the mission of the center.

For more information, visit www.jcbna.com.

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