A Golf Tournament that makes a difference? Yes, in the case of The Dream Program, it does make the difference in programs for disabled youth staying in the planning stages or becoming a reality.

The Dream Program began in 2006 for the sole purpose of enhancing the lives of those with disabilities through participation in sports and arts programs. Programs such as Unified Softball, Flag football, Basketball, canoeing, soccer and bowling, bring those with disabilities together on the field and on the court making memories that last a lifetime.

Troy and Lindsay Trigg are the founders of the Dream Program; both are graduates of the University of Southern Mississippi and remain dedicated to Jackson County.

“I saw what the EXPAND program was doing in Colorado when I lived out there, how the program offered so many opportunities. Lindsay and I decided to start a similar program here in Jackson County.” He continued,

“Over the past five years Lindsay and I have seen so many lives changed for the better by our program. We have been able to do so many fun activities and special activities; the program has held dances, banquets, and a trip to see the Saints.” The Dream Program does not charge participants in any of its programs.

“Our objective is to include everyone, regardless of age, race, economic status, social status, or ability. Every dollar we bring in is spent on our programs, furthering our reach, broadening the scope and depth of the activities that enrich the lives of our members, the families, and the communities to which we all belong,” Lindsay added,” The Dream program is a non-profit, all volunteer organization.”

The Silent Auction items are chock full of sports memorabilia, Casino stays and dinners. The raffle items are also noteworthy, Classy Chassis Car washes, Restaurant Gift Certificates, as well as Gift Certificates to local stores.

Trigg has been able to add new programs such as Unified Cheerleading due to the monies raised from the Golf Tournament. Last year, the volunteers of the dream program along with the dedicated supporters, raised over $13,000.

This year, a fundraiser will be held at the Ocean Springs Yacht Club on Friday, April 8th with catering donated by Broomes and live music by the Brentwood Rockers.

“I want everybody to come out to our Silent Auction fundraiser on April 8th, its open to the general public, and you don’t have to be participating in the golf tournament to attend. All we ask is that you buy a $5.00 raffle ticket.” Trigg explained. The Silent Auction items are chock full of sports memorabilia, Casino stays and dinners. The raffle items are also noteworthy, Classy Chassis Car washes, Restaurant Gift Certificates, as well as Gift Certificates to local stores.

The Golf Tournament will take place at Mississippi National in Gautier for the 2nd year. The shotgun starts are at 8 a.m. and 2p.m., with lunch being provided by Tony Cachere’s. To register online for the Golf Tournament go online at Dreamprogram.net.

The Bacot /McCarty foundation is also a strong supporter of the Dream Program, “Without them, I really don’t see how we could exist.” Remarked Trigg. “These experiences we are able to offer through our programs are changing lives.”

Some programs Troy and Lindsay want implement in the future are camping, biking, wheelchair water-skiing, and biking.