The 20th annual golf-themed fundraiser for Volunteers in Service to the Elderly (VISTE) brings the community together to ensure seniors receive needed services. VISTE President Steve Bissonnette explained, “This organization is only here because of this community’s generosity, philanthropy, and volunteer ethic.”
Since its inception in 2006, VISTEBall has raised over $4 million to fund essential services that allow seniors to live safely and independently in their homes. The event promises a fresh experience for both newcomers and returning guests. “If you’ve been before, there’s something new to enjoy. And if it’s your first time, it’s a truly unique event,” Bissonnette said.
Over 100 volunteers, including board members, Florida Southern College and South Eastern University golf team members, and dedicated community partners, help execute VISTEBall. Volunteers play a vital role year-round, not just during the event. “Once a volunteer gets involved, it usually occurs more than once,” Bissonnette said.
Interactive Social Evening: “This is not a formal dance; it’s an interactive social evening,” said Bissonnette. With DJ music, games, and opportunities to connect, attendees are encouraged to “have a good time, help a good cause, and hopefully learn more ways to get involved.”
What you need to know:
When: Saturday, Feb. 1. Games from 6 to 9:30 p.m.; dinner from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Where: Sun N’ Fun Hangar, Lakeland
Tickets: $75 per person (ages 21+)
Attire: Golf Casual.
Key Highlights: Ensuring an entertaining evening for everyone, the event features much more than just traditional golf, such as:
- Non-golf games like skee ball machines and a putting contest where guests can win prizes such as wine or liquor for a hole-in-one
- Two golf simulators
- A wine pool, in which participants pay cash to win a randomly selected bottle of wine, ranging from everyday varieties to premium labels
- Serving stations featuring local restaurant specialties will complement the traditional buffet, offering more variety for guests who want to eat and play.
Auction and Prizes: The online auction runs through 8:00 p.m. on event night, with items on display during the event. Tickets for the “Wheelbarrow of Cheer” are available now online. The winning ticket will be drawn at 7:30pm the night of event. You do not need to be present to win.
VISTEBall putting competition for a chance to sink a 60ft. putt and win $10,000. | VISTE 
VISTEBall online auction prizes. | VISTE 
Volunteers Candace and Ashley serving with smiles at the 2024 VISTEBall. | VISTE 
Silent Auction items on display during VISTEBall will be available to bid online at beginning January 24th. | VISTE 
One winner will walk away with a “Yeti of Cheer”. | VISTE | VISTE
Community Impact: VISTE’s clients range from 70 to 108 years old, with about 75-80 new applications monthly. Volunteers call every client on their birthday to reduce social isolation — a significant issue among seniors. Bissonnette explained, “When volunteers take a few minutes to check in, it makes all the difference in the world.”
Looking Ahead: With Central Florida’s growing senior population, VISTE anticipates increased demand for its services. VISTEBall plays a crucial role in funding these efforts, providing vital support to ensure seniors can live safely and independently. As VISTE President Steve Bissonnette noted, the organization faces challenges due to the growing senior population and increased longevity. Attending VISTEBall offers the community an opportunity to contribute to meeting these needs while enjoying a night of interactive entertainment and camaraderie.
To learn more about VISTE and volunteer opportunities, visit viste.org.
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