Heartbeat of Hollywood Committee members Scott Syring, Tom Zimmerman, Brian Jackson, Rocco Calabrese, Gloria Palazzo, George Palazzo, Frank Fassnacht, Ted Friesen, Mickey Segal, Chuck Killian, Kristopher White, Matt Segal, and Ken Scherer.
This June, the Annual Heartbeat of Hollywood Gold Classic was held on June 13, 2016 at El Caballero Country Club, Las Posas Country Club, and Saticoy Country Club. More than 400 golfers participated in the 3-course annual event which raises money to assist The Motion Picture & Television Fund and its residents living on The Wasserman Campus.
Each year, the tournament raises close to $500,000. The funds go directly to the Wasserman Campus and the gifts are chosen by committee members. Stephen Koppekin, a long-time supporter and member of the organization, especially enjoys this part.
“Last year we bought a home safety van to support eligible participants whose lifestyles have changed. For example, the van will go around with volunteers to install safety railings, handicap ramps, and other helpful equipment to reshape the house,” said Koppekin.
In the past, other gifts have included new carpeting and new beds. Each year, the list comes from the home itself, and the committee members allocate the funds accordingly.
“That’s the best meeting. All the others meetings are hard work. This one puts a smile on people’s face,” says Stephen.
While the multi-course tournament may be fun, the day continues after the golfing has commenced. In the evening, participants gather for a dinner, raffle, and a grand prize drawing.
The raffle features more than 90 items, donated by local businesses and organizations. The prizes range from restaurant gift certificates to a trip to Hawaii. Additionally, the event features a grand prize drawing which will continue to accept
The grand prize closes at October 21, 2016. Tickets are $250.00 each. The prize includes two tickets to the Superbowl, business class airfare to Houston. Those who are interested in participating in the raffle should visit the MPTF website.
The history of The Motion Picture & Television Fund (MPTF) spans back more than 90 years. The fund originally started as a simple coin box for workers in the entertainment industry to support fellow colleagues. Throughout the decades, the fund grew in size and in programming. In 1940, the Country House and Hospital was built and opened in Woodland hills.
Today, the organization has flourished into a comprehensive service center that provides care and assistance to more than 150,000 people each year. The fund continues to rely heavily on its active volunteers who make it their mission to help others in all stages of their lives. Whether a team provides assistance to help rebuild a house or organizes an annual golf tournament, the organization credits its continued success to the big hearts of its members.