Not Just for Golfers: How ARL's Golf Outing Turned a Day on the Course Into a Community Celebration
Published On: 5/29/2026
Last Updated On: 5/29/2026
By Callie, Seymour, Yebba, Tucker, and Mama and our Hooman Ashley!
BERKS COUNTY, PA — A morning on the course revealed that the Animal Rescue League of Berks County's largest golf fundraiser is about far more than golf.
Spend just a few minutes walking the course at the Animal Rescue League of Berks County's Not Your Grandfather's Golf Outing and you'll quickly realize something:
This event isn't really about golf.
Sure, there are clubs, carts, scorecards, an incredible local course (thank you Manor Golf Club) and plenty of swings taking place throughout the day. But after spending the morning meeting teams, talking with participants, and exploring the course, the bigger story appears to be the community that has formed around a shared mission — helping animals in need and having fun!
One team we met below represented more than 55 years of friendship.
As they made their way across the course together, it was clear that today's outing wasn't simply another golf tournament. It was an opportunity to reconnect, spend time together, and support a cause they care about.
That sense of community could be felt throughout the event.
Participants ranged from experienced golfers to people simply looking for a fun day outdoors with friends and family. Business owners, retirees, volunteers, animal lovers, and first-time attendees all shared the course together.
Even Animal Rescue League Chief Executive Officer Ashley Mikula joined participants on the course, spending the day golfing alongside supporters of the organization's mission.
Golf Skills Optional
One of the most noticeable things about this year's outing is how intentionally it has been designed to be fun for everyone — regardless of golf experience.
Throughout the course, organizers incorporated a variety of challenge holes and interactive experiences aimed at creating laughter and memorable moments.
At one hole, members of the local roller derby team were stationed nearby to playfully heckle golfers as they attempted their shots.
At another, participants could make a donation and have a professional golfer take the shot for them while they relaxed and enjoyed the experience.
One of the most entertaining stops on the course required golfers to wear beer goggles before attempting to sink their putts, creating plenty of laughs while proving that perfection was never the goal.
The atmosphere throughout the morning felt less like a traditional tournament and more like a community celebration with golf serving as the backdrop.
A Small Story That Captured the Spirit of the Event
Among the many teams participating today was a group of women wearing custom shirts featuring dogs from the Animal Rescue League.
Their goal was simple: start conversations and help more people learn about adoptable animals.
The best part?
Every dog featured on their shirts had already been adopted before today's outing even began, including Cora pictured below!
It's the kind of story that perfectly captures what makes events like this special.
Behind every sponsorship, raffle ticket, golf swing, and conversation is the same goal: helping animals find loving homes.
The Day Isn't Over Yet
While the tournament starts to come to an end, the public still has an opportunity to join the festivities.
The After PawTee begins at 4:30 PM and runs until 7:30 PM, featuring food, drinks, raffles, community networking, and continued fundraising efforts benefiting the Animal Rescue League of Berks County.
For those who missed the golf portion of the day, organizers say tickets are still available.
If this morning has proven anything, it's that you don't need to be a golfer to enjoy one of Berks County's most unique fundraising events.
You simply need a willingness to support animals and spend time with a community that cares.
Event Information
📍 Not Your Grandfather's Golf Outing
🐾 Animal Rescue League of Berks County
🕓 After PawTee: 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Stray Cat News will continue providing live updates, photos, interviews, and event coverage throughout the remainder of the day.
