USO Paddle Day Raises Funds for USO Illinois

Over the past 14 years, Westmoreland Country Club has hosted the annual USO Paddle Day event with proceeds benefitting USO Illinois. Founded in 2007 by Tom Maentz and Scott Johnson, the event has raised over $350,000 in support of USO programs and services. This year, February 6 was designated as USO Paddle Day by the Chicago Platform Tennis Association (CPTC). For the more than 350,000 service members and their families served annually by USO Illinois, receiving support from the members at Westmoreland and others in the Chicagoland paddle community is a tremendous gift and truly appreciated.

When asked about the impact of the event, Tom Maentz explained, “When the idea of a paddle fundraiser to support the troops was formed over a decade ago, we weren’t sure how best to realize our charitable intentions. Fortunately, we came across USO Illinois and their great work. We have since learned of their relentless dedication to the heroic men and women of our armed services and their families. With facilities in our major airports and at Naval Station Great Lakes, USO Illinois provides unparalleled care for our troops here in Illinois. It has been our honor to partner with this tremendous organization and contribute to their mission.”