By JONATHAN BURROWS

IN a vibrant display of philanthropy, the Baha Mar Resort Foundation hosted a press conference yesterday following its annual Royal Blue Golf Tournament Invitational, held on June 14, during which it raised over $275,000.

Held at the Baha Mar Convention Center, the post-tournament event was headlined by one of Baha Mar’s senior vice presidents, Robert Sands, who presented a series of generous donations to a wide range of local beneficiaries across The Bahamas.

With dignitaries and media in attendance, the conference served as the philanthropic crescendo of the multi-day golf tournament held at the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course Royal Blue, which drew local and international participation and raised significant funds earmarked for charitable causes. 

Sands, a seasoned executive and prominent voice in the nation’s hospitality sector, took the stage with visible pride as he announced the foundation’s latest philanthropic efforts. “This morning was a tangible demonstration of our giving back to the community,” said Sands, addressing the press. 

The highlight of the morning came when Sands presented ceremonial cheques and donations to a series of non-profit organisations, community groups, and a single mother in need after losing not only her home to a fire but also her child. Each recipient was recognised for their tireless work in areas such as youth development, social welfare and animal welfare.Among notable beneficiaries were: Shantia Marshall - received $15,000 to assist with the rebuilding of her home following the fire that had destroyed it.

The Bahamas National Trust - received $30,000 to help with its ongoing conservative work across the island, including its stewardship of national parks and marine resources.

Bahamas Association of Physically Disabled - received $25,000 to aid with the continued care and facilitation of the disabled in the Bahamas. Baark! - Received 25,000 to aid with the continued facilitation of abused and abandoned animals in the Bahamas

Humane Society- received $25,000 to help with the commitment to aid and facilitate abused and abandoned pets and animals in the Bahamas

Bahamas Council on Alcoholism - received $25,000 to aid in their continued effort to help and spread awareness to Bahamanians struggling with alcoholism. 

Salvation Army - received $25,000 to help in their continued effort to clothe and feed those in need in the Bahamas. 

Hands For Hunger - received $25,000 to aid in their continued effort to feed the less fortunate in the Bahamas. 

Down syndrome Committee - received $20,000 to aid with a new building fund. 

Bahamas Red Cross - received $25,000 to strengthen its disaster preparedness and emergency response capabilities ahead of the 2025 hurricane season.

Nassau Chapter of Links Incorporated - received $25,000 to help with their continued effort to stop violence against women in the Bahamas.

REACH - received $20,000 to help provide parents and children dealing with autism the necessary tools needed. 

Bahamas Golf Education Youth Program - received $15,0000 in efforts to further the development of golfing in the Bahamas.

Bahamas Aquatics Foundation - received $15,000 to further the development of swimming in the Bahamas.

Christ the King Church - received $15,000 to help with various charity work done in their respective communities.

St Agnes Church - received $15,000 to help with various charity work done in their respective communities. 

Royal Bahamas Police Force - received $30,000 to help with various youth programs and the implementation of the program to assist families of slain officers. 

Sands confirmed that the foundation will continue expanding its reach in 2025, with new initiatives. 

“The Baha Mar Resort Foundation is committed to giving back to the community,” said Sands about the future of the foundation. 

The Baha Mar Resort Foundation, established to formalize the resort’s charitable work, has grown into one of the most active philanthropic organizations within the Bahamas. 

With a mission rooted in culture, community, and conservation, the foundation has touched thousands of lives since its inception through a combination of funding, partnership, and volunteerism.