From an article by the TAPinto Gold Coast Staff
The Spring Lake Golf Club was once again the backdrop for a remarkable display of community spirit and generosity as golfers supported Covenant House New Jersey. They participated in the 46th Annual Joseph C. Nugent Golf Outing, a longstanding tradition dedicated to supporting Covenant House New Jersey (CHNJ). This year’s event brought together dedicated supporters from across the state, including local areas of Spring Lake, Sea Girt, Belmar, Manasquan, and Bay Head, all united by a common goal: to combat youth homelessness and trafficking in New Jersey. Through their collective efforts, the outing successfully raised over $170,000. Funds that will further CHNJ’s mission to end youth homelessness by providing safety, shelter, and a path to independence for vulnerable young people.
A Legacy of Support
“In the 46 years that the Spring Lake Golf Club has been hosting this event for Covenant House, this outing has raised well over $3 million for youth facing homelessness and survivors of human trafficking in New Jersey,” said Sue Monteiro, Covenant House New Jersey’s Major Gifts Officer. “This outing was started by a small group of local members who wanted to make an impact, and 46 years later we have seen thousands of young people move from homelessness to independence. That’s thanks to the vision and commitment from a few local supporters.”
The History of the Golf Outing
The Golf Outing began 46 years ago during a visit to inform the Spring Lake Golf Club members about the mission of Covenant House. Inspired by the message, a group of local men, including Joseph C. Nugent, Louis Taylor, and William Gearty, decided to host an outing to benefit the organization. After Joseph C. Nugent’s passing in 1988, the event was named in his honor.
Today, the outing remains a deeply personal event, attended predominantly by invitation only, with a capacity of 120 golfers. Though many founding members have passed away, their families continue to be involved in the event. Mr. William Gearty is the only surviving founding member.
Covenant House New Jersey is located in 5 cities across New Jersey. We operate two homes in Asbury Park, each housing 10 young people who are experiencing homelessness. In addition to food and shelter, we provide supportive services via the Rights of Passage (ROP) Program in Asbury Park. It provides an apartment style supportive living and learning environment for youth ages 18 – 21. At ROP, residents can stay for 18 months and are responsible for buying and preparing their own meals, saving money, and learning more skills that strengthen their readiness for apartment living.
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