Wooten Center Launches Inaugural John Lapham Golf Classic to Support Los Angeles Youth Education

The Al Wooten Jr. Youth Center, commonly known as the Wooten Center, has announced the inaugural John Lapham Golf Classic, a fundraising event that honors the legacy of longtime board member and chairperson John G. Lapham III. The event, previously known as the Wooten Golf Classic, has been renamed this year to celebrate Lapham's significant contributions to the organization and to continue supporting youth college and career readiness programs throughout Los Angeles.

The tournament will take place on Monday, November 17, at the Porter Valley Country Club in Northridge, California. Corey Dantzler, Executive Director of the Al Wooten Jr. Youth Center, emphasized the importance of the event, stating that it brings together the community to honor John's legacy while investing in youth development. The fundraiser supports vital after-school programs that serve thousands of young people in the Los Angeles area, focusing on academic achievement and career preparation.

Attendees can expect a full day of activities including golf, a putting contest, lunch served on the course, and a silent auction. The day will conclude with an awards dinner beginning at 5 p.m. The event serves as a critical fundraising platform for the Wooten Center's educational initiatives, which provide a safe and nurturing environment for youth development.

Sponsorship opportunities are available at multiple levels, ranging from Bronze at $1,500 to Sapphire at $50,000, with each level including various numbers of foursomes and event recognition. Interested parties can register through the online RSVP form or review detailed sponsorship information on the event website. Individual tickets and additional contest entries are also available for those who wish to participate at smaller commitment levels.

The renaming of this annual event to honor John Lapham III reflects the organization's commitment to recognizing individuals who have made substantial contributions to youth education in Los Angeles. The Wooten Center has established itself as a vital community institution, providing after-school programs that empower young people to succeed both academically and personally. This golf classic continues the organization's tradition of creating opportunities for thousands of students while building hope for brighter futures through educational support and community engagement.

The impact of this fundraising event extends beyond the immediate financial support it generates. By bringing together community members, sponsors, and supporters, the John Lapham Golf Classic helps raise awareness about the importance of after-school programs and college readiness initiatives in underserved communities. The continued success of such events ensures that the Wooten Center can maintain its critical role in shaping the educational trajectories of Los Angeles youth, ultimately contributing to stronger communities and better prepared future generations.