In a remarkable fusion of passion and philanthropy, the Goodridge brothers have transformed their love for golf into a charitable initiative that has significantly impacted their local community. What began as a friendly competition among colleagues has now blossomed into JMG Legacy Inc., a non-profit organisation that has raised substantial funds for various charities while engaging thousands of participants in the world of golf.
The Genesis of a Charitable Golf Pool
James Goodridge fondly recalls his early days at the Bally Haly Golf Course in St. John’s, where his love for the sport was nurtured. “I used to golf a lot. I kind of grew up at one of the local courses,” he shared. This passion was brought into his professional environment approximately 13 years ago when he initiated a Masters pool during his tenure at Deloitte. What started with a modest participation of around 25 individuals has now expanded exponentially, incorporating additional tournaments such as the PGA Championship, the US Open, and the British Open.
James’s brother, Chris, a lawyer based in St. John’s, initially assisted in the organisation of the pool but soon found the responsibility overwhelming. The brothers decided to take their efforts a step further by registering the pool as a non-profit entity. Inspired by their late mother, Janet Murphy Goodridge, who was a staunch advocate for maternal and infant healthcare, they named the organisation JMG Legacy Inc. “It’s still a lot of work, but now I feel a lot better about things,” James remarked, reflecting on the positive shift in their mission.
Expanding Impact and Growing Participation
The success of JMG Legacy has been staggering. With participation now soaring to approximately 4,000 individuals, the pool has made a significant impact through its charitable contributions. Last year alone, JMG Legacy donated an impressive $46,000 to various local charities, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, Bridges to Hope, Sammy’s Climb Higher Foundation, and the Special Olympics. Additionally, they established a scholarship fund in honour of their mother, further extending their legacy of compassion.
Maintaining an accessible entry fee of £25, the Goodridge brothers continue to manage the logistics of the pool and provide regular updates to participants. Looking ahead, James is optimistic about this year’s event, anticipating an increase in participation to around 6,000 individuals, with hopes of raising as much as £75,000 for charitable causes. “It’s a labour of love,” he stated, underscoring the dedication that has driven their initiative.
A Personal Connection to the Game
Despite his deep-rooted enthusiasm for golf, James admits that his personal success in the pools has been elusive. “I have never won a single dollar from the pools,” he chuckled, illustrating the irony of his situation. Nonetheless, his commitment to the charitable aspect far outweighs any desire for monetary gain. The joy derived from supporting community initiatives and honouring their mother’s legacy serves as a powerful motivator.
As James juggles the responsibilities of family life alongside his charitable work, he reflects on how his passion for golf continues to inspire him. Playing the occasional round has become a challenge, yet he remains steadfast in his dedication to the Masters pool and the difference it makes in the lives of others.
Why it Matters
The JMG Legacy initiative exemplifies the profound impact that community-driven efforts can have on local charities. By intertwining personal passion with a commitment to social responsibility, the Goodridge brothers have created a platform that not only fosters camaraderie among golf enthusiasts but also generates significant financial support for vital causes. As more individuals engage with the pool, the ripple effect of their contributions will undoubtedly enrich the lives of many, reinforcing the idea that every effort, no matter how small, can contribute to a larger purpose.
