CHICOPEE — On May 5, supporters will challenge each other in the Second Annual Cinco de Cornhole Tournament to raise funds for the Michael J. Dias Foundation.
“The funds raised from the cornhole fundraiser will directly support the Michael J. Dias Foundation’s efforts to offer comprehensive services to those in recovery from substance use disorders,” explained Karen Blanchard, executive director of the foundation. “These contributions will help us expand our outreach and provide essential resources to individuals and families navigating the challenges of addiction.”
The bring-your-own-partner cornhole tournament will have four rounds and a double-elimination format with social and competitive divisions. The first-place team in the competitive division will receive a $500 prize and there will be cash prizes for the social division as well. There will also be side games of knockout, air mail and minute-to-win-it contests. The foundation will also host a raffle.
After working up an appetite, there will be a cash buffet featuring tacos, meatballs, assorted salads, sandwiches and a full bar.
“Last year’s event was well attended, and we hope to have even more participants this year,” said Blanchard. “We do prefer that participants pre-register, but we will have same-day sign-ups which will begin at 10:30 a.m.”
Founded in 2011, the Michael J. Dias Foundation works to support individuals struggling with drug addiction and their families. In 2016, it opened Michael’s House, a sober living community for men in the early stages of their recovery. In 2017, Sean’s Place opened — a self-governing transitional sober community where men who are ready to move out of the strict sober home setting, but still need to live in a sober community and have the close support of their peers.
The tournament will take place at the Portuguese American Club at 149 Exchange St. in Chicopee, with registration at 10 a.m. and games starting at 11 a.m. Registration is $60 per team and parking is free. For more information and updates, visit the event’s Facebook page.
