Seventy-six golfers hit the greens at Loblolly Pines Golf Course on Saturday, Sept. 8 for the 2nd annual Golf for Wildlife Tournament to raise funds for the Treasure Coast Wildlife Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving wildlife and its natural habitats.

Hosted by long-time supporters of the organization, Glen Hess and the Vicki Hess Foundation, the event netted more than $55,000, most of which will go toward building a much-needed new facility for the wildlife center in Palm City.

In 2004, the wildlife center experienced one tornado, three direct hits by hurricanes and a forced relocation, depleting its financial reserves. The temporary quarters that followed hindered every vital function of the organization. Despite these hardships, their dedication never waned. The animals in their charge receive the utmost care.

With the community's continued support, the center can create a facility with space for the treatment of wildlife patients, welcome center/administrative offices, food preparation and storage, caretaker residence, caging, nature trails, discovery center, and an amphitheatre.

"We are grateful and honored by the continued support and generosity from the business community," said Dan Martinelli, executive director of the Treasure Coast Wildlife Center. "It is because of this support that we are able to care for and rehabilitate sick, injured and orphaned wild animals today, and will be able to look forward to an even brighter future ahead."

For more information about the Treasure Coast Wildlife Center, please call 772.286.6200 or visit www.tcwh.org.