For many years, volunteers in Asheville, North Carolina, have held an annual event in aid of TPRF’s work. This year they decided to do something a little different, with a 3-day program of events running June 15-17.

The program began on Friday with speaker Charan Anand giving an inspiring introduction to Prem Rawat’s work. This was followed by presentations on TPRF’s Food for People and Peace Education programs from Steve Kowarsky, volunteer coordinator of the Foundation’s social media presence.

On Saturday, more than 100 people enjoyed a “Golden Garden Party” with fabulous food, natural ambience, and music on the grounds of Ron and Rachel Clearfield’s beautiful 3-acre property. Ron explains that the annual garden party fundraiser very much involves the whole Asheville community, from families to musicians to retailers who generously donated all the refreshments. “It is truly the highlight of our year.”

The Food for People program is especially dear to the Clearfields’ hearts. Ron Clearfield says watching a report of the very first Food for People Center inspired him and his wife to get involved in supporting the program.

Music from a jazz-indie group, an eastern Indian fusion band, and the rousing sounds of a bagpiper parading in full Scottish regalia made this an unusually entertaining and joyous occasion.

Said bagpipe player, Rosalind Buda, “All of the elements of the Golden Garden Party came together to create an incredibly beautiful benefit event. Coming in "just to add to the entertainment" became much more than that for me as I was inspired by wonderful people and encouraged by the generosity of all that were there to support the cause.

Tabla player Matthew Cox was also very touched by the event. “It's amazing when compassionate people get together under a common cause how much beauty can unfold."

The fun continued on Sunday, as players teed off for the Second Golden Ball Charity Golf Tournament at the Grove Park Inn Resort in Asheville. Organizers are proud to announce that the tournament was the 35th International Charity Golf Tournament benefiting TPRF. Prizes awarded included Best Team Score, Putting Contest Winner, Longest Drive, and Closest to the Hole.

After the tournament came the eagerly awaited Golden Coin Raffle and Draw, offering people the chance to win an American Eagle gold coin valued at $900.

But according to golfing enthusiasts who organized the tournament, golf was more than just a game. “A round of golf is a good thing for the body, the spirit, and the soul. It offers time and space to reconnect with each other in a meaningful way and even laugh at ourselves together.”

The organizers said that the multi-day format worked very well, as did the efforts to involve the local Asheville community who responded so generously.

Said Ron, “I would encourage anyone who wants to get involved with supporting TPRF’s work to be really creative and have a lot of fun. Involve your local community; you will be amazed how people want to help."