Usually, one would expect Tiger Woods to be dominating a golf course somewhere or savoring his third green jacket from the Masters Golf Tournament. Likewise, talk show host Carson Daly seems most at home interviewing big stars. However, both were hanging out with the youth of Clark County on Saturday, April 20 at the Mandalay Bay for the fifth Tiger Jam fundraiser for the Tiger Woods Foundation.

Fifty kids participated in the annual meet and greet; 20 from the Target-sponsored Start Something Program, 12 from the Las Vegas Boys' and Girls' Club, and 18 from local charities.

The Tiger Woods Foundation inspires young people to work hard and achieve their maximum potential by encouraging health and education to improve the quality of life for America’s future. In a question and answer session at the fundraiser, Woods commented on the ever-growing confidence of children today and their goal to never give up.

“You’re going to have to work hard,” says Woods. “You’ll make mistakes at the beginning, but in the end it’ll all be worth it.”

He gave advice to kids aspiring to be the next sports sensation or who want to make a difference with their lives.

Woods, three-time winner of the Masters, was not alone. Joined by Carson Daly, Iron Chef Ming Tsai, Miss Teen USA, and Wood’s father Earl Woods, the celebrities hosted “Dream Booths” where they talked to kids about their interesting occupations. Tiger Woods suggested ways in which kids could reach their fullest potential. The seminar’s goal was to put brilliant smiles on each child’s face and to offer advice to the next generation.

“If you want to be a chef or anything, you will have to be able to take risks and try something new,” says Chef Ming Tsai. “As my father always said, ‘You’re never going to get the high branch if you don’t jump.’”

“You need to have faith and work hard and bring your ‘game’ if you want to get to the top,” says Earl Woods, speaking about any future sports sensation. “When you get to the top, Tiger will be waiting for you.”

Later, Tiger hosted a celebrity golf and auction, which raised over $250,000 for the Tiger Woods Foundation. Overall, the fundraiser raised over $1 million for the Woods Foundation and many other charities across Las Vegas and Southern California.

In just four golf seasons, the Tiger Woods Foundation has staged fundraisers in many cities, raising money for disadvantaged children. The motivational speakers have become an integral part of the event, with their goal to build bridges and create opportunities for today’s youth.

“All kids need is a chance,” says Earl Woods. “The Foundation is about making sure they get it.”

Much can be said about the Foundation’s visit to Las Vegas. It followed its mission statement, which is to support today’s youth and community based programs that promote the welfare of all of America’s children. The event made a huge difference and certainly raised the morale of the next generation.

-Return to May 2002 Issue-