Organizers gear up for 5th annual golf tournament and dinner to benefit autism research and education at Hampden Country Club

Organizers were dealt a blow last year when more than $1,000 in cash was stolen from the tournament

Photo courtesy of Radcliffe Kenison Jr. At left, Radcliffe Kenison III, 10, with brother Arthur Kenison, 7

HAMPDEN – Organizers of an annual golf tournament and dinner to benefit autism research and education are gearing up for their fifth annual fund-raiser at the Hampden Country Club despite the theft of more than $1,000 from the event last year.

The event, which raises money for the non-profit organization, “Radcliffe is the Reason and Arthur Too!” is set for May 6.

More than $1,000 was stolen during the event last year from a money bag at one of the holes. Organizers didn’t realize until later that night, after the tournament and dinner were over, that the money was missing.

The discovery, however, of the empty bag on the ground of the country club several days later confirmed that the cash had been stolen.

“It took the wind out of our sails,” Gina G. Kenison said. “It took us pretty much the rest of the year to get our motivation and drive back.

“They stole from a charity for children with disabilities,” Radcliffe F. Kenison Jr. said. “Everyone says that is the lowest of the low.”

The theft, along with damaging morale, prompted the loss of a major sponsor, Radcliffe Kenison said.

The fund-raiser is named for the couple’s two sons, Radcliffe and Arthur, ages 10 and 7, respectively. Both have autism and are non-verbal.

The Kenisons said steps have been taken to safeguard the money raised during the event.

As the event approaches, organizers are still looking for those willing to donate items for its silent auction.

The Kenisons also urge those seeking to participate in the fund-raiser to sign up early.

“Every year we sell out,” he said. The event accommodates 36 foursomes on the links and a more than a hundred dinner seats.

Kenison said he recommends that anyone whose lives have been touched by autism, personally or professionally, to attend the event. “It’s a great way to network,” he said.

Kenison said he hopes to raise $15,000 this year. Money raised goes toward autism education and research at local, regional and national levels, he said.

Last year, Radcliffe Kenison received a top award from Autism Speaks for his fund-raising efforts.

For more information, or to donate an auction item, go to Arthur is the Reason and Arthur Too! Fight Autism on Facebook.