A junior golf organization is only as good as its member/players … and also as those who help it along the way, like parents, volunteers and others in the community who jump in and lend a hand. Such is the case with Southern Highlands general manager Jason Cheney and Cascata general manager Andy Elliott, who were recently both named community leaders of the year by the SNJGA.

Cheney helped spearhead more than $30,000 in donations from Southern Highlands members and staff, which allowed the annual golf marathon to raise more than $70,000, a record. And Elliott was instrumental in hosting two fundraising tournaments at Cascata, which raised more than $15,000.

“When I came to Las Vegas in 1997 from Fargo, North Dakota, I was initially overwhelmed with the shear size of this city,” Cheney says. “I have met some of the most amazing people through the community of Las Vegas golf. Whether it be from relationships formed with co-workers, cohorts from competing clubs or those that simply play the game, lifelong friendships have been established. Through my years of working in the Valley’s golf industry I was exposed to some amazing people who used the game of golf for philanthropic or community centric purposes. Nowhere was this more evident than when I began working in the private club setting. My desire to become more involved in our community was developed by what was being modeled by the members and owners I served on a daily basis. I speak with my team at Southern Highlands Golf Club often about the great fortune we have in being of service to a membership base that are stewards of the community in which we live. The Governor’s Black Tie event that takes place at Southern Highlands is just one example of the numerous philanthropic efforts I have been exposed to through the game of golf. To see millions of dollars being raised through our partnerships, on an annual basis, provides a tremendous level of intrinsic value and a deeper desire to get involved and stay committed to our community as a whole.”

As for Elliott, he is equally humbled by Las Vegas and vitally knows how important it is to support junior golf efforts. Earlier this year, Elliott was also named the assistant professional of the year by the Southern Nevada Chapter, Southwest Section, PGA of America.

“The first thing that comes to mind about helping out is being able to give the next generation the access to the best sport in the world,” says Elliott. “Cascata provides an excellent experience for all golfers and is a true test to the game with beautiful scenery. To welcome golfers to experience it while also helping the future of the game is very special for us.”

The SNJGA board, staff, volunteers, players and all involved deeply thank Jason and Andy for their ongoing efforts to help out the future of the game.