08/29/2026
My name is Olivia Yatooma. Yes, it’s true I’m Norman and Nicole Yatooma’s oldest daughter, but that’s not the only title I proudly claim. I’m also Manuel Yatooma’s oldest granddaughter. Our family charity, Yatooma’s Foundation for the Kids, is in his name and memory.
My grandpa was tragically killed when my dad was 20, four years younger than I am now. So, I never met my grandpa. I never got the chance to know him. I do, however, know quite well the man he raised. I call him dad. And he tells me it’s my grandpa who taught him to be strong. Perhaps having four daughters made him sensitive too.
YFFTK not only keeps my grandpa’s legacy alive, but it teaches other kids, consumed by the heartbreak of losing a parent, how to be strong, emulating the same strength my grandpa once instilled in my dad.
I know not everyone reading this letter is a golfer. In all honesty, the one writing this letter (me, obviously) isn’t much of a golfer either. Ok, that’s a lie. I can’t golf at all. BUT, hear me out. You should show up for our 24th Annual Champions for the Kids Golf Tournament because the purpose far outweighs the brief embarrassment of an imperfect putt. 100% of our event proceeds will go directly to the support of these kids who have lost a parent. And we’re a 100% volunteer run organization that has 100% of its administrative expenses underwritten.
So, I would be grateful if you’d attend on September 14th, 2026 at Forest Lake Country Club. Plus, the Club, in my dad’s words, went “straight bougie.” In my words, the Club is in its prime. And that’s a pinky promise. So, really, this is a win, win. You’ll be able to engage in some friendly competition on the Club’s newly renovated golf course, but more importantly, you’ll make a meaningful contribution to serving orphans and widows who are desperately searching for a renewed sense of purpose. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll find your own renewed sense of purpose in seeing the way your donations genuinely make a difference in the lives of those who desperately need it.
With love, from one proud granddaughter,
Olivia Yatooma
