The Heart of the Table | Generations & Legacy

The Nana Network Gives Back

M ost of us contribute to charities on a regular basis. “Giving back” is an established part of our culture; but, every once in a while, an opportunity for true “hands-on help” presents itself.

A misty morning at a prestigious mountain golf course tee box.

While infusing my early morning coffee one Tuesday, I watched a compelling story on the local news about Vance High School’s coach trying to vigorously start up a girls’ golf team—the first all-girl golf team this Charlotte, North Carolina school had ever seen. Ding, ding, ding! If there’s one thing a mountain top golf community has in absolute abundance, it is extra clubs. But how do we get the word out quickly? It takes a village, they say. Well, I say it takes a Network... a “Nana Network” to be exact.

Support for the Golf Team

I immediately knew I could find dozens of fellow grandparents on my Ladies Golf Association email list who would be overjoyed to help these young ladies succeed. By day four, I was feverishly packing up my SUV with a completely overflowing garage of equipment. It is profoundly heartwarming to know how enthusiastically everyone wanted to physically help.

Yes, it is about golf—a sport that uniquely teaches patience and strict etiquette, as well as deep team camaraderie. But fundamentally, it’s about helping a generation of girls experience what they've only seen on TV. As for me and my loyal band of gal pals? We will continue to fiercely follow the Vance High School Girls’ Team and vigorously gnosh together after the 18th hole!