The Beestera Foundation’s second annual Cornhole Tournament fundraiser was a huge success, uniting community members, players, and supporters at Fort Orange Brewing for an evening of fun, competition, and giving back. The event raised over $4,200, directly supporting the Foundation’s mission to provide sporting opportunities and resources to underserved youth.

Through the Foundation’s core initiatives - Just Play (free soccer events), Gear Up (providing equipment and uniforms), Game On (subsidizing camp and training fees), and Game Changers (mentorship and leadership development) - players not only grow on the field, but thrive as individuals.

Attendees enjoyed great food, craft brews, and spirited cornhole matches, with a fantastic lineup of prizes generously donated by local businesses and partners. This year’s tournament introduced a new format: each team played three group games before moving into the quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals. For those not competing, there were plenty of ways to join in - from raffles and socializing to supporting the Foundation’s mission. Beestera merch was also available, with proceeds benefiting the Foundation.

Prizes included:

• An overnight stay at the Albany Marriott

• $60 Panera Bread voucher

• Gift basket from Trader Joe’s, Saratoga Impressions, and a $15 Book voucher from The Book House of Stuyvesant Plaza

• $50 Druthers voucher

• 50 minute massage treatment at Hand and Stone

• Round of golf at Fairways of Halfmoon

• Round of golf at Van Patten Golf Club

• Beestera gear packages

  
  

"We’re incredibly grateful for the generosity of our sponsors and the amazing turnout from the community," said Madeline Hammer, President of The Beestera Foundation. "Events like this allow us to expand our reach and continue creating meaningful opportunities for young players who might not otherwise have access to sport."

With the tournament’s growth and the community’s continued support, Beestera is already planning for an even bigger event next year.

We’d also like to take a moment to celebrate the outstanding achievements of Dylan Stephens and Antoni Wroblewski, both 19-year-old interns with Beestera. They were given full responsibility for planning, organizing, and executing the event - from marketing to securing raffle prizes from local businesses. For two young leaders to successfully run an event of this scale speaks volumes about their dedication, professionalism, and growth. Their efforts perfectly reflect Beestera’s mission: developing great players and even better people by empowering individuals within the collective.

For more information about The Beestera Foundation and upcoming events, visit [beestera.com/foundation] or follow Beestera on social media.