Spring 2022 GO LIVING Magazine by www.greyoakscc.com

LIVING

SpringActioninto

“Grey

DON EMERY, CCM, CCE

General Manager/COO 239-262-2488, ext. 103 demery@greyoakscc.com

Each club that I have had the privilege to serve had a heartbeat which was derived from its culture and the spirit of its Members. Culture at a private club is built over time and is a collaboration between the membership and staff to find what is important to differentiate the club from other institutions. At Grey Oaks, a group of Members worked for many months with committees, the Board of Directors and previous management to establish the Club’s official mission, vision and, most importantly, values. These core values were determined to be the following:

• Community

• Integrity

• Respect

• Excellence

• Transparency

• Service

• Stewardship

As a community of Members, staff, and guests, we create the environment we live in every day through our behavior, words, and actions. We are all responsible for creating the best experience for ourselves and one another.

In this spring issue of LIVING, we highlight the core value of Community as we focus on how our Members and staff make Grey Oaks, our community, and the world a better place.

We Value Community

Grey Oaks is a collection of people who are drawn together by shared interests, then bonded together by strong relationships. These relationships are the heart and soul of the Club’s community, and the way we create a thriving community is by staying true to our values. Our community is not bound by the walls around Grey Oaks. Our Members and staff go into the greater community and positively impact others through their words and service.

Many times, one becomes involved in philanthropic endeavors after witnessing someone else giving their time and talents to a cause. This was the case with me at an early age as I saw my parents give generously to others and serve as volunteers with various organizations. Two of many examples: As a family, we provided meals to those less fortunate through our church, and I participated in Eagle Scout projects to benefit my local community. Later, as an adult, I funded a scholarship at Cornell University in honor of my parents who made such a positive impact not only on my life, but on many other lives. I continue to support this scholarship and give gifts to the CMAA Foundation Scholarship Program and the Cal Poly Pomona Foundation Fund. At Grey Oaks, I am pleased to announce that 100% of our department heads have pledged to support our Employee Scholarship Fund this year.

“Grey Oaks Gives Back”

To quote Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” You will find on the pages throughout this issue that Grey Oaks Members and staff have been inspired by Dr. King’s message and have “given back” to their communities. I hope their stories embolden you to “spring into action” this season and become involved in philanthropy and volunteer work, if you are not doing so already.

DON EMERY, CCM, CCE GENERAL MANAGER

ERIN BUCHNER

Assistant Membership Director 239-262-2488, ext. 104 ebuchner@greyoakscc.com

In the spirit of Giving, and on behalf of the Club, I want to express our gratitude for your overflowing generosity. Not only does the Club receive your donations to the Grey Oaks Scholarship Fund and Grey Oaks Caring Fund, a Member-led initiative to assist our team members, we also appreciate your participation in the on-campus food drives, Habitat Build Days, Wounded Veterans Relief Fund tournaments and many more charitable activities. During my short tenure at Grey Oaks, it has been made clear that the priorities and vision of the membership centers around the value of community. This sense of community stretches beyond neighbors and fellow Members - it includes our team members as well – creating the Grey Oaks Family. The opportunity to be a part of this caring community, as well as the chance to work with top industry professionals, were the determining factors in accepting my role as Assistant Director of Membership.

Beyond my primary role, I also serve as the Philanthropy Committee Club Liaison and Internship Program Coordinator. These two roles have expanded my firsthand experience with the generosity and support of our Grey Oaks Members and team members.

Working alongside the Philanthropy Committee Members has been an honor. I am so thankful for their time and guidance, which has made the transition to my role seamless and the mission clear: Our Membership values our team and will continue to support them. The Member-led initiative of the Scholarship Fund and Caring Fund is uncommon in the private club industry and truly makes a difference when our team members experience short-term dilemmas and are in need of funds for continuing education. Thank you to those who are and have been directly involved, and to our donating Members.

New this year, Grey Oaks has instituted an Internship Program to develop future industry leaders from the top hospitality and golf programs in the country. The Club offers a rotational internship as well as a department specific program to provide hands-on/real world job experience for the students. We are working to build a pipeline of top talent which will contribute to the future success of Grey Oaks. The students who are currently enrolled in our internship program -Tara, Ally, Austin, and Louis (see pages 22-23 for their bios) have all expressed their appreciation for the experience and exposure they have gained working in tandem with the Grey Oaks team. They have also stated how kind the membership has been to them and how much they have enjoyed getting to know them and their family members. The Member/ employee relationship is what sets the private club industry apart from other facets of hospitality and the interns' short time at the Club has given them an amazing experience because of our caring Members and invested club leaders. Thank you for making their experiences here at Grey Oaks world-class.

Finally, on a personal note, I feel I have come full-circle working with our Internship Program. As a student at Cal Poly Pomona, Don Emery hired me as an intern at The Riviera Country Club. This was my first experience in the private club sector and I attribute the success of my career to the mentorship and guidance of Mr. Emery. I look forward to shaping the Grey Oaks Internship Program from the foundation of my experience and background.

Thank you for welcoming me during my first winter season at Grey Oaks.

Warmest Regards,

ERIN BUCHNER ASSISTANT MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

SAVE THE DATES FOR OUR

Easter Week Events!

Reservations open one month prior to the event date and can be made on the Club’s website (www.greyoakscc.com), on the Club App, or by calling the Front Desk at 239-262-5550.

Easter Basket “To Go” Orders

Wednesday, April 13

Pick-up time slots from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Grill Room

Easter Egg Decorating

Thursday, April 14

3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the Main Dining Room

Breakfast with the Bunny

Saturday, April 16

Seating times: 8:30 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. The Main Dining Room

Grey Oaks Annual

Easter Egg Hunt & Festival

Saturday, April 16

9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the Tennis Lawn

10:00 a.m. Easter Egg Hunt begins

Easter Brunch at The Estuary

Sunday, April 17

11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Easter Dinner in the Main Dining Room

Sunday, April 17

12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Other events planned during Easter Week

April 12 - Family Trivia Night

April 13 - Name that Tune

April 14 - Cookout & Glow Party on the Tennis Lawn

April 15 - Fishing Frenzy

April 15 - Cookout & Movie on the Lawn

April 16 - Dancing Through the Decades Family Event

The Spirit of Giving

The generosity of Grey Oaks Members knows no bounds! Year after year, the membership supports the Naples/Collier County communities and the country club employees through various charitable organizations. Here are snapshots of a few organizations who are benefactors of the overwhelming philanthropic support of our membership:

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

$1,000,000 has been generated from build days & charity events

20 Homes have been built with funds/volunteer work donated by Grey Oaks Members

12 Grey Oaks employees were part of the qualifying local families who received homes

I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver. “ ”

— Maya Angelou

PHILANTHROPY FUNDS

$336,478 has been donated for the Scholarship Fund

29 Grey Oaks staff members and their dependents have benefited from the Scholarship Fund

$304,986 has been donated for the Caring Fund

64 Grey Oaks staff members and their dependents have benefited from the Caring Fund

Energy – People Power – Goodwill

Grey Oaks is Building Homes & Changing Lives

Grey Oaks Members have been part of a long tradition of giving back to local families through the Club’s partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Collier County.

Beginning in 2011, thanks to the initial encouragement and enthusiasm from Members Brenda and Don Hays, Kathy and Brian Johnson and Rick Bobrow, Grey Oaks has organized an annual community build day to support this outstanding organization. Funds generated from the build days and charity events have exceeded $1,000,000 to build Habitat homes. During that time, we have seen a dozen Grey Oaks employees qualify and purchase Habitat homes in Collier County.

In addition, we have been able to leverage those volunteer hours through a partnership in the Community Contribution Tax Credit Program (CCTCP). The CCTCP is a state funded incentive to encourage businesses that collect and remit state sales tax to partner with those who provide affordable housing.

Partnering with local clubs and businesses is the only way Habitat can access the funds, and Habitat is the only organization in Collier County participating in the program.

In partnering with Habitat for Humanity, the process begins with Grey Oaks pledging the funds for the construction materials for one home. Members of Grey Oaks also provide 200 hours of labor for each house sponsored. Habitat staff prepares the applications and delivers them to Grey Oaks for signing. After approval of the initial application, a second application is sent to the Department of Revenue who issues a rebate check from sales tax previously paid in to the state.

Through our CCTCP partnership, Grey Oaks has helped Habitat for Humanity of Collier County to access $865,000 through the Community Contribution Tax Credit Program. This program has made the dream of homeownership a reality for 15 families.

Our Build Day this year was held on February 15, 2022 and marked the Club’s tenth year of building homes for local families. Grey Oaks Member, Janet Miller, once again led the effort with over thirty Grey Oaks Members and staff donating their time and talents.

In closing, we want to once again thank Brenda and Don Hays for their vision to bring Grey Oaks and Habitat for Humanity together. This year, we reached our milestone of $1 million generated over the years to build Habitat homes. The Hays’ spirit to give back to their community has inspired a decade of fellow Members to continue the effort to bring affordable housing to those in need.

If you would like to donate to Habitat for Humanity of Collier County, please complete the on-line form at donorbox.org/greyoaksgivesback or drop your check off at the Grey Oaks front desk reception area. We appreciate your generosity and support.

Serving Veterans

Since 2014, the Grey Oaks’ racquets department and the Wounded Veterans Relief Fund have collaborated to host an annual professional exhibition which benefits disabled veterans living in Florida. Member Jim Champion, who serves on the Board of Directors of the Wounded Veterans Relief Fund, has led the charge over the years with the planning process, and Grey Oaks Members have generously donated close to $150,000 over the years to provide emergency and medical financial support to local veterans.

This year’s event will be held on Thursday, March 17, with a pickleball and tennis exhibition, speakers from the Wounded Veterans Relief Fund, and a special presentation and march by uniformed veterans.

Pickleball & Tennis Exhibition Benefiting the Wounded Veterans Relief Fund

Thursday, March 17, 5:30 p.m. Register on the tennis events calendar on the Club’s website (www.greyoakscc.com) or call the Sports Center at 239-262-2522.

For details on the Wounded Veterans Relief Fund, or to donate to the cause, please visit www.wvrf.org

BLOOD DRIVE

Monday, April 4, 2022

1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

In conjunction with the Community Blood Center, an affiliate of the NCH Healthcare System

Reservations open March 4

GIVE BLOOD: You can literally save the lives of three local patients with each pint you donate. Every three seconds, someone in America needs blood. Every 30 minutes, someone’s loved one receives blood in Collier County.

The entire blood donation process, from registration to refreshments takes about 30 minutes. It only takes 5-7 minutes to physically draw your blood. In that short period of time, you are helping a local patient celebrate another day of life!

For complete details and to register, please visit the Special Events Calendar on the Club’s website at www.greyoakscc.com or contact the Front Desk at 239-262-5550.

SPOTLIGHT ON Employee Volunteers

Several Grey Oaks staff members actively serve the Naples community by volunteering their time and talents to various philanthropic organizations. We’ve highlighted two such individuals who spend their free time giving back to others:

Rosemary Giovannelli, Grey Oaks’ Member Services Representative, began volunteering at Meals of Hope, a Naples food bank, shortly after she came to the United States from Italy. Rosemary states “Initially, I started volunteering because my aunt was already a food bank volunteer. The first time I went to the center, I remember how good it felt being able to help others. My positive feelings about volunteering have continued well beyond my first time. I really enjoy being able to meet and work with the other volunteers. We have fun and have become friends while doing something productive together. Volunteering is beneficial in so many ways. It contributes positively to humanity while helping you grow as a person. It also creates empowerment. Often times, a word of encouragement and a little assistance to those in need can help them get back on their feet. When they do, they’ll most likely do the same for others. Then the cycle continues. I would encourage others to volunteer because, as we lose ourselves in the service of others, we discover our own lives and our own happiness.”

Sammy Callari, Grey Oaks’ Boxing Coordinator at the Wellness Center, began volunteering in 2016 when he started to train a thirteen-year-old boy named Parker at a local boxing gym in Naples. According to Sammy “Through the world’s eyes, Parker has Down Syndrome. Through my eyes, he’s like any other child. Six years later, and now at the age of 18, Parker and I are still training two times a week and have gained each other as brothers. He and I decided to use our brotherly relationship to give back and inspire others. We teamed up with STARability to organize an all-inclusive basketball game for charity.”

Sammy has also volunteered as a “buddy” for the Tim Tebow Foundation event, known as Night to Shine, which partners volunteers with special needs individuals. Volunteers serve as prom dates or “buddies” for the evening. Sammy states “The most rewarding part of volunteering and working with people with special needs is the priceless life lesson. The love, smiles, laughter and joy that you receive from these individuals is genuine and heartfelt. The friendships and memories I have made with many individuals with special needs will always be close to my heart.”

If you are considering selling your home in Grey Oaks, make sure you have the Home Team advantage. When you sell your property with Grey Oaks Real Estate you are eligible for additional benefits and Club incentives, let us show you why we are second-to-none when it comes to marketing your property.

Managed by the #1 Luxury Brokerage in Naples, we are the ONLY brokerage in Naples that can present your property on three of the world’s largest affiliate networks - Luxury Portfolio International, Christie’s International Real Estate and Who’s Who In Luxury Real Estate - as well as our family owned network of over 130 offices from New York to Maine with more than 4,400 sales associates.

When you sell or purchase your home using the Grey Oaks Real Estate team you help improve the value of our Community for all our members.

Philanthropy Funds

The Grey Oaks Philanthropy Funds consist of a Scholarship Fund and a Caring Fund, one dedicated to support the educational and personal development endeavors of Grey Oaks team members and their dependents, and the other to provide occasional emergency support to team members facing a short–term dilemma.

In 2017, the Grey Oaks Board established a Philanthropy Advisory Committee of Members to assist the Club’s leaders in managing both Funds.

Since the Funds’ inception, the Club has partnered with the Community Foundation of Collier County (CFCC) to administer the Philanthropy Funds. CFCC manages the tax-exempt structure and requirements of a foundation, facilitates the review and approval of scholarship grants and Caring Fund distributions and administers the programs per the Club’s policies.

Each of the Funds is managed by CFCC, which is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization. The Funds are supported by the generosity of Grey Oaks Members. Periodically, Members are encouraged to make tax-deductible contributions to these Funds.

Origin of the Philanthropy Funds

The Philanthropy Funds evolved from an effort by Grey Oaks Members to help the Club’s team members recover from Hurricane Irma in 2017. The Club sponsored a hurricane hardship Member appeal. The appeal raised $477,179 from 488 Members. For that one appeal, the Club was granted a temporary IRS exemption that allowed those gifts to be considered tax-deductible contributions. The Club distributed $231,150 to 84 team members suffering from Irma.

With the remaining funds, the IRS granted the Club a grace period to shift the remaining dollars into qualified 501(C)3 accounts through Community Foundation of Collier County (CFCC). At that time, the Club created the Philanthropy Advisory Committee to oversee this existing balance. Like many other charitable organizations in Collier County, the Committee reached an agreement with the CFCC to pool the charitable qualified donations in the CFCC investment funds and then have CFCC distribute grants from those funds as the Committee so advised and in accordance with governmental regulations. At its origin, the Committee established a Caring Fund with $75,000 and a Scholarship Fund with $166,054.

The Scholarship Fund

The Scholarship Fund provides financial assistance to team members or their dependents by awarding scholarships to those students attending accredited institutions and programs, including certification courses, English language courses, technical colleges/schools, university, colleges and undergraduate, graduate and doctorate programs. The grants can be used for tuition, fees, books and supplies as well as room and board. The CFCC makes the payments to the respective institutions once they receive documentation from the institution for the eligible expenses.

The Philanthropy Advisory Committee establishes the criteria for scholarship grants as well as the maximum amount of the scholarship each year. Each recipient receives the same amount each year. The standards established by the Committee and utilized by CFCC consider achievement criteria and financial need equally:

• Achievement criteria considers performance and potential. Evaluation includes grades/GPA, applicant’s personal statement, recommendation letters, extracurricular activities, application content and career goals.

• Financial need is weighted and skewed by most in need. Family financial position is used to evaluate need.

Scholarship Grant

2018

The evaluation and selection of scholarship recipients is done by a selection committee consisting of representatives of CFCC to ensure unbiased opinions.

The Grey Oaks’ Management Team promotes the scholarship program and provides guidance and assistance with the application process. Eligible team members and dependents can apply each year.

This year, the Philanthropy Committee awarded nine scholarships, two to team members and seven to team member dependents. Each scholarship provided a maximum of $10,000 grant for a calendar year.

Expressions

From Four of Our Many Scholarship Recipients:

RAIANNA BAILEY

Florida Southwestern State College Study - General Studies

Father - Dwayne Bailey F&B Team Member

Originally from Jamaica, Raianna is a member of the Campus Activity Board at Florida Southwestern and is involved in many activities on campus.

“Firstly, I want to thank the foundation for thinking about the community and its future. I also want to thank the donors for their generosity and involvement in deciding to give back to their community. As students, we are often burdened with school work and other challenges that life puts in our path; it is a sigh of relief to have the foundation’s help. Thank you for making me a part of the foundation and helping those in need of assistance.”

MADISON JOHNS

Florida Southern College

Father - Les Johns, Director of Wellness

“I am honored and grateful to have been granted the Grey Oaks scholarship which has allowed me to further my academics and future career goals. Thank you to the Grey Oaks membership and the foundation for supporting future generations of students.”

of Gratitude

DIEGO GONZALEZ

Grey Oaks Employee - Accounting Assistant

Florida Southwestern State College Study - Criminal Justice

“It is a privilege and honor to receive the Grey Oaks scholarship which provides me the opportunity to further my education. The Members’ generosity has inspired me to help others and give back to the community. I hope one day I will be able to help students achieve their goals just as Grey Oaks Members have helped me.”

AKEELIA BLACKFORD

Florida Southwestern State College Study - Nursing

Father - Burchell Blackford F&B Team Member

Originally from Jamaica, Akeelia is a member of the Campus Activity Board at Florida Southwestern where she began in the role of a historian and is now the vice president of the club.

“I am grateful for the opportunity and your continuous generosity towards my future. I am also so appreciative of your help in making my future bright. This scholarship has motivated me to keep pushing and striving for more outstanding achievements in life. I was never sure if I would be accepted once more to receive a scholarship, but then that reminds me to work hard if I want to be helped by the committee. Thank you for making my vision become a reality.”

The Caring Fund

The Caring Fund provides financial assistance to team members who suffer economic hardships arising from such unforeseen events as a death, injury, illness, accident, victim of a crime or other personal emergencies. The Fund was able to provide assistance to many team members this year in different categories of need; however, the most need occurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic, where the Caring Fund was able to provide support to 59 team members.

The Grey Oaks Management Team promotes the availability of the Caring Fund to team members. They also provide guidance and assistance with the application process.

Applications for financial assistance are reviewed by the Community Foundation of Collier County (CFCC) to maintain the privacy for applicants and financial assistance is then provided.

DONATE

There are several ways to contribute to the Philanthropy Funds. The Philanthropy Committee maintains a section on the private side of the Grey Oaks’ website where Members can contribute directly to the Philanthropy Funds. Simply select the “Resources” tab, followed by the “Philanthropy” option from the drop-down menu. Also, you can send a check directly, using the enclosed envelope, noting either Grey Oaks Scholarship Fund or Grey Oaks Caring Fund to:

Erin Buchner at EBuchner@greyoakscc.com or Hannah Kosater at HKosater@greyoakscc.com.

Giving

The Club’s Week of Giving presents an opportunity for Members to donate to the Grey Oaks Cares & Scholarship Funds which benefit staff members and their dependents.

During our Week of Giving, Members will have several opportunities to make donations at the following events:

donations may be made via check payable to Grey Oaks Scholarship Fund (using the envelope enclosed in this magazine), in cash or online at https://cfcollier.fcsuite.com/erp/donate

boxes will be available at all the events during the Week of

MOORINGS PARK AT GREY OAKS

The Best of Both Worlds

TThree simple words perfectly describe the amazing lifestyle of Moorings Park at Grey Oaks:

Twice the fun! As a resident, you’ll not only have Moorings Park at Grey Oaks’ incredible on-site amenities and activities, but you’ll also continue to have full access to all the world-class amenities of Grey Oaks Country Club that

hree simple words perfectly describe the amazing lifestyle of Moorings Park at Grey Oaks: Twice the fun! As a resident, you’ll not only have Moorings Park at Grey Oaks’ incredible on-site amenities and activities, but you’ll also continue to have full access to all the world-class amenities of Grey Oaks Country Club that

you’ve grown accustomed to. It truly is the best of both worlds.

From Course to Course, It’s All About Enjoyment

Whether you’re savoring a fivecourse meal or teeing off on one of three championship golf courses, living at Moorings Park at Grey Oaks is all about having fun, enjoying

friends, and living a lifestyle others can only dream about.

Enjoy delicious and nutritious meals in a variety of settings. Choose from casual or formal dining in one of the community’s three on-site restaurants, including Vynes Restaurant & Bar, the poolside SandWedge Bistro, or The 105 Restaurant.

“Residents love having dining options just a short walk from their beautiful homes,” said Tom Mann, Vice President of Moorings Park Communities. “The fact that they are called by name and treated exceptionally well by our staff members or ‘partners,’ as we call them, is just one more reason that life here is twice as good as anywhere else.”

Thanks to a Sports Membership included with residency, you can continue to indulge in the culinary delights of Grey Oaks Country Club’s three restaurants, The Pool Café, The East Clubhouse or The West Clubhouse. Whether you choose to dine at Moorings Park at Grey Oaks or at The Grey Oaks Country Club, you’re sure to enjoy savory, unique menus, celebrated wine lists and impeccable service.

Miraculous Amenities

Steps Away from Home

Moorings Park at Grey Oaks’ amenity-rich lifestyle fosters a warm sense of community. Its gracious clubhouse offers various places to enjoy socializing, including a comfortable lounge. There’s also a creative arts studio, state-of-theart fitness center, the Rejuvenate Salon and Spa and a ballroom for dinner, dances, lectures and large gatherings.

Everyone deserves a little pampering and no more so than

those who live at Moorings Park at Grey Oaks. The finest spa therapists in the area offer a wide array of luxurious treatments at both locations, whether you prefer the spa at Moorings Park at Grey Oaks or The Country Club. Exclusive offerings are designed to improve the radiance of your skin, relieve stress, and make you feel miraculous.

Outside, at Moorings Park at Grey Oaks, you’ll find covered outdoor terraces, relaxing rooftop gardens and fire pits, two resortstyle pools with cabanas, rubberized pet-friendly walking paths, and open multi-purpose lawn areas perfect for hosting a variety of activities, including bocce ball and lawn bowling.

Concierge physicians and personalized healthcare are provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Outpatient therapy services, as well as assisted living and memory care, are also available and included with residency.

You Don’t Have to Be a Resident to Start Enjoying Some of the Benefits

Additionally, from skilled nursing care and life care management to dedicated VIP personal assistance and private duty services, our Home Health Agency is available to Grey Oaks Country Club members. Beautifully appointed Assisted Living and Memory Care suites are also available on a month-to-month basis at a daily rate.

Your Exclusive Invitation to Our Special Event

Moorings Park at Grey Oaks has so much to offer, we’re inviting you to join us for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on Thursday, April 21st, starting at 3:30 pm in the Garden Room and Veranda of the Clubhouse at Grey Oaks Country Club.

Complimentary valet service will be provided.

In addition to hearing about the luxurious residences, you will learn how to access the community’s world-class healthcare services, which includes concierge physicians and Assisted Living and Memory Care – while still enjoying the Grey Oaks Country Club lifestyle even if you are not a resident. It truly is the best of both worlds – and we look forward to telling you more.

Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP by Tuesday, April 19th, by calling 239-643-9111 or visiting MooringsPark.org/GOCC or by scanning the QR code below.

Internship Program

Grey Oaks Country Club prides itself on supporting higher education and opportunities for developing future leaders in the hospitality and private club industry and, as such, our Grey Oaks’ internship program is a testament to this philosophy. By inviting top students from across the country to join our team, we strive to set the standard for their development by offering the experience of working alongside industry leaders at the preeminent club in Southwest Florida. Through this program, the Club offers department-specific internships as well as rotational opportunities to a wide range of students with varying fields of study. Each intern has the unique opportunity to meet with a diverse group of leaders from all departments of our club to further their knowledge of the private club industry. Our hope is to better equip future professionals in departments such as golf, racquets, wellness, events and food & beverage with the hands-on experience of our program. The students administered to our internship program go through extensive vetting from our team members and their acceptance is ultimately based upon their work ethic, experience and professional goals. Many of our graduating interns have gone on to accept full-time positions at Grey Oaks and other comparable clubs throughout the United States. These outgoing interns have served as mentors to our incoming interns to help ensure they become the best future leaders in the private club industry.

Molly Heslin

Internship Type: Events

From: Naples, FL

Florida Gulf Coast University

Senior majoring in Hospitality Management with a concentration in Event Management

“I’ve built relationships, established my role within a professional community, and elevated my sense of responsibility through the events I helped plan and execute. This experience has confirmed my career path, ignited my passions for professional planning, as well as provided me with the invaluable practical experience I inevitably needed to be successful.”

Molly recently completed her internship program assisting Kathy Bryant, our Director of Catering & Events, and the events team with myriad weddings and special member events held at the Club over the past year. With passion, charismatic energy, and a service-oriented attitude, Molly navigated the ever-changing environment of event planning as a consummate professional. She epitomizes Grey Oaks’ values of integrity, stewardship, and community.

Tara O’Malley

Internship Type: Golf

From: Chicago, IL

University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign

Senior majoring in Recreation, Sport and Tourism

Recipient of the Chick Evans Scholarship (fouryear caddie scholarship for college students)

Private Club Career Goals: Tournament and golf operations management, considering a PGA head professional position.

Current Experience at Grey Oaks: Utilizing golf software Golf Genius and Northstar to schedule tee times and event entries. Obtaining hands-on experience in golf shop operations and merchandising.

“It’s exciting to be mentored by the gold-standard in the golf industry and to be exposed to all aspects of golf operations and instruction at a world-class facility.”

Louis Fiumara

Internship Type: Golf

From: Venice, FL

Florida Gulf Coast University

Freshman in the Professional Golf Management Program

Private Club Career Goals: Head Golf Professional or Director of Instruction

Current Experience at Grey Oaks: Learning about the golf instruction program from Bob Usher, a “Top

100 Growth of the Game” Teaching Professional. Being exposed to outside and inside operations, tournament play and tee time scheduling.

“I never realized how much goes into golf operations! Balancing tournament play and daily tee times to lessons, junior programming and merchandising, my internship has enabled me to gain first-hand experience in all areas of golf.”

Austin Nettle

Internship Type: Rotational – F&B Operations

From: Myrtle Beach, SC

University of South Carolina

Senior majoring in Tourism and Sports Management

Private Club Career Goals: General Manager/ Director of Operations.

Current Experience at Grey Oaks: Exposure to a la carte dining, banquets, scheduling, budgeting and P&Ls.

“As a rotational intern, I’ve enjoyed a well-rounded program having worked alongside all the club leaders from the General Manager and the CFO to the Directors of Facilities, Racquets, Golf, Agronomy, and Culinary Operations to learn about all sectors of the club business.”

Allison Ringler

Internship Type: Golf Merchandise Intern

From: Grand Rapids, MI

Florida Gulf Coast University

Sophomore in the Professional Golf Management Program

Private Club Career Goals: Merchandising Manager for a Golf Pro Shop.

Current Experience at Grey Oaks: Exposure to the merchandising and purchasing operations of the Golf Shop. Attending the PGA Show to learn more about vendor relationships, top brands and negotiations.

“Working in tandem with Grace and Kathleen in the shop has given me valuable real-world experience and prepared me for a future in golf shop merchandising.”