APPLETON, Wis. — The 41st annual U.S. Venture Open raised $5,395,972 to help end poverty in Northeast Wisconsin, while also raising more than $1.1 million for tornado response and rebuilding efforts in communities impacted by this year’s devastating storms.
The event brought together 1,008 golfers and more than 1,300 dinner attendees for the nation’s largest one-day charity event dedicated to ending poverty. This year’s event also featured former NFL quarterback and philanthropist Tim Tebow as the guest of honor.
Since its start in 1986, the U.S. Venture Open has raised more than $80 million and granted $63 million through the Basic Needs Giving Partnership.
The partnership supports innovative programs aimed at addressing the root causes of poverty and helping individuals and families build greater stability.
The U.S. Venture Open was held on August 12 with their annual golf outing during the day and famous Van Abel’s dinner at night.
Focus Fox Valley host Hayley Tenpas took her show to North Shore Golf Course to hear from organizers and supporters of the event.
Her interviews include,
- Sarah Schmidt (father, Bill Schmidt started USVO in 1986)
- Lynn Detterman, President of Froedtert ThedaCare Health North Region
- Monica Stage with J.J. Keller Foundation
- Jodie Larsen with Oshkosh Corporation
- Natalie Bomstad, Executive Director for the Basic Needs Giving Partnership



