Are you ready to hit the course and showcase your golfi ng talent? Well get geared up! The University of North Carolina at Pembroke’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) Chapter invites the Fayetteville community to come and out and enjoy the third annual Make Par for PR Golf Tournament on March 31. This fundraiser is being held at the Pinecrest Country Club Golf Course in Lumberton, N.C.

The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), one of the nation’s largest communities of public relations and communications professional, founded PRSSA in 1968. The reason for the creation of PRSSA was to encourage a relationship between students and public relations professionals that promotes beneficial opportunities. Through this organization, PRSSA aims to seek the expansion of careers in public relations through the advancement of student professionals. Networking and professional development are benefi ts for any student who becomes a part of the organization. PRSSA advocates academic standards for public relations education, the highest ethical principles and diversity in the profession.

The organization consists of 10,000 students and advisors and has been organized into more than 300 chapters nationwide, including one organization in Argentina. The group is headquartered in New York and is led by a national committee of PRSSA and PRSA members. UNCP’s PRSSA chapter is one of 10 chapters on North Carolina campuses. It is safe to say PRSSA is a major organization that is a part of many different campuses. It is beneficial for those students who are seeking a successful and fulfi lling career in the public relations fi eld.

Because of the success of the organization and the drive for student success, the Make Par for PR Golf Tournament fundraiser is an excellent way to support the students and keep the organization growing. George Harrison, faculty advisor for PRSSA, is thrilled about this up and coming fundraiser.

“This is our biggest fundraiser of the year,” Harrison explains, “It is a chance for members of the community to support our students by providing them opportunity for more future public relations endeavors.”

This is the third year for the fundraiser and preparations for the tournament are going well. The golf tournament allows individuals to play on teams, prizes are awarded for the top three teams.

There are different participation levels. Sponsorship levels are available too, and they range from Bronze which is $150 to Gold which is $500. Sponsors receive recognition in the event program and other great opportunities depending on sponsorship level.

Christopher Peterkin, president of UNCP PRSSA, says that the organization has raised $1,500 in sponsorship thus far.

“We raised $2,500 last year but we are looking to raise more money this year.” Peterkin says.

Peterkin feels that this year will be a great turnout and is encouraging everyone to come out and support the organization through this exciting and fun tournament.

“We will be accepting any donations or new teams all the way up to the day of the tournament.” Harrison said. “If you want more information about registration just visit the website and print out the brochure.”

All prices mentioned on the brochure are set prices and will remain that way through the day of the tournament. Registration includes an enjoyable dinner and refreshments, green fees, cart fees, range balls and a goody bag. Raffl e tickets and $5 mulligans will also be available for purchase at the tournament.

“All the proceeds from the tournament will go towards funding for future PR trips and to help send members to the different conferences,” Peterkin explains.The Golf Tournament tees off at 2 p.m. at the stunning Pinecrest Country Club. For more information about registration or joining UNCP PRSSA visit www.uncp.edu/prssa.

Photo: UNCP’s Make Par for PR golf tournament takes place in Lumberton on March 31.