Golfers Support Laces of Love

On January 9, 2024, The Island Country Club’s Women’s Golf Association sponsored a golf tournament followed by a luncheon to support Laces of Love, a locally based, non-profit organization. The organization provides new shoes to low-income and disadvantaged children and educates the public about the needs of these children. Since its incorporation in 2005, Laces of Loves has provided over 200,000 kids in Southwest Florida with new shoes.

Joyce Imbrogno was the Event Chair. Mrs. Imbrogno has hosted many events for Laces of Love all over Marco Island. The golf tournament and luncheon were attended by over 70 women from ICC who donated over $10,000. In addition to hosting the event, Joyce and her foursome, Mary Appollina, Theresa Sorensen, and Kathy Williford won the event. No prizes were awarded due to this charity event. Elaine Shlegel beautifully decorated each table with hearts and a new pair of sneakers. In addition to the monetary donation, over 150 pairs of new sneakers were collected throughout the club from the Tennis Center, the Wellness Center, and both the men’s and women’s locker rooms. 

Jeanne Nealon, co-founder and President, addressed the luncheon. She spoke of how she started the organization with her sister, Mary. The sisters learned from their parents that the true meaning of love is in giving. Children are selected for Laces of Love shoes by their guidance counselor, school nurse, teacher, or principal or by a staff member or Executive Director of a non-for-profit organization serving the child.

Jeanne would go on to tell many heartwarming stories of the joy she would see when she would give a child a brand-new pair of sneakers. Many times, it was the child’s first NEW pair of sneakers. 

Mrs. Nealon has also written a book, Laces of Love New Shoes for Needy Kids. Mrs. Imbrogno gifted a book to all who attended the luncheon.