ORLANDO, Fla., May 13, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- On Friday, April 25, Marriott Vacations Worldwide (NYSE: VAC) hosted its 17th Annual Caring Classic charity golf tournament which resulted in a record breaking net donation of $200,000 for Greater Orlando Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. This represents a cumulative total of nearly $2 million in funds raised since the tournament's inception that directly benefit the young patients of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children, Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies and UF Health Shands Children's Hospital.
"I couldn't be more proud of this exceptional milestone and am truly appreciative of the support of those business partners from around the country whose generosity made this event such a great success," said Stephen P. Weisz, president and chief executive officer. "Our company and associates have been giving back to our local communities for more than 30 years through Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. This commitment continues to help make a difference in the lives of so many of Central Florida's children."
The Caring Classic once again took place at Marriott's Grande Pines Golf Club, where a field of 156 players, representing 93 Marriott Vacations Worldwide partner companies, contributed to make this year's tournament possible. Additionally, over 80 Marriott Vacations Worldwide associate volunteers and golf staff provided an exceptional on-course hospitality and golf experience for the participants.
The $200,000 net donation is part of Marriott Vacations Worldwide's overall commitment to the recently opened expansion of The Alexander Center for Neonatology at the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies. The company has committed to raise $1 million through existing and new CMN Hospitals fundraising activities benefitting the tiniest lives in Central Florida. In recognition for reaching this goal, a portion of the neonatology unit expansion will be recognized as the "Marriott Vacations Worldwide NICU-wing" which will memorialize the company's long-standing commitment to children, especially the very tiniest newborns.
About Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation
Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation is a leading global pure-play vacation ownership company offering a diverse portfolio of quality products, programs and management expertise with more than 60 resorts and more than 420,000 Owners and Members. Its brands include: Marriott Vacation Club, The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club and Grand Residences by Marriott. For more information, please visit www.marriottvacationsworldwide.com.
About Children's Miracle Network Hospitals
Children's Miracle Network Hospitals raises funds for 170 children's hospitals across the United States and Canada, which, in turn, use the money where it's needed the most. When a donation is given it stays in the community, helping local kids. Since 1983, Children's Miracle Network Hospitals has raised more than $4 billion, most of it $1 at a time. These donations have gone to support research and training, purchase equipment, and pay for uncompensated care, all in support of our mission to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible. Learn more at http://CMNHospitals.org.
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SOURCE Marriott Vacations Worldwide
