Auburn Fundraiser Raises Nearly $150K for Children’s Harbor On Lake Martin

Auburn University Head Basketball Coach Bruce Pearl’s first major fundraiser netted nearly $150,000 for Children’s Harbor On Lake Martin, a 66-acre lake campus that provides no-cost camping facilities for children with serious illnesses and their families, as well as to more than 20 other non-profit organizations. Children’s Harbor is the vision of Ben and Luanne Russell who dreamed of creating a place for children and families on Lake Martin on property provided by Russell Lands. The dream, dedicated to the memory of Ben’s mother, Adelia M. Russell, became a reality in 1990 and since then has provided comfort and haven to thousands of children and their families.

Coach Pearl and his wife, Brandy, chose to raise funds for Children’s Harbor On Lake Martin not long after they arrived at Auburn.

“We were looking for a place that we could put our heart and soul into, somebody that was already doing a great job of making a difference in the lives of children and families,” Pearl said. “We found Children’s Harbor on Lake Martin. We heard a story about what they do for kids with challenges and their families at the (Benjamin Russell) Hospital for Children in Birmingham, and it was just a great fit. I’m grateful to the leadership at Children’s Harbor for allowing me to put my name, our family and the Auburn basketball program on this golf tournament to raise money to help them do the amazing job that they do.”

The Pearls opened their home for the fundraiser – a dinner and live auction for nearly 250 people followed with a golf event at Willow Point Country Club.

“Our monetary goal was lofty,” Pearl said. “We thought we would be able to write a check for $100,000 to Children’s Harbor. I’m pretty pleased to say that we will be writing a check closer to the area of $150,000 after everything gets paid for.”

Myrle Grate, chief operating officer of Children’s Harbor, thanked the Auburn coach for his help. “I really appreciate everything coach has done for us and all the support he has lent to us,” Grate said. “Children’s Harbor raises every dime we have every year. We don’t get any government subsidies or funding, we raise everything through private individuals so this fundraiser means that 5,000 kids can come to camp next summer and 35,000 people can come through our family center next year and receive support services.”

To see how you can support Children’s Harbor On Lake Martin, visit their website.