L to R: Event Chairs Carmaleta Whiteley Felton and Otis Felton, Larry Fitzgerald, Jr, and Pat and Emmitt Smith (Image collage provided by Gangway Advertising. Image credits unknown.)

Pat and Emmitt Smith are dedicated to supporting the growth and development of underserved children. The Emmitt Smith Celebrity Invitational Golf Tournament and Gala raises much-needed funds, that go on to have a direct impact on young lives in North Texas. To date, the two-day weekend of events has raised more than $6.2 million in support of Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities, and has supported over 137 charities in North Texas, including 3,500 DISD students and families through their annual back to school program.

Now in its eighth year, The Emmitt Smith Celebrity Invitational Golf Tournament and Gala will take place on Friday, May 12th and Saturday, May 13th.

The festivities begin with a Gala at Omni Dallas Hotel presented by Albertsons/Tom Thumb, led by Honorary Chair Faye C. Briggs and Event Chairs Carmaleta Whiteley Felton and Otis Felton.

The theme for this year is ‘Celebrate’. And a host of celebrities, local business leaders, and officials will walk the red carpet, sponsored by Cigna, ready for a call to action to help continue the work of reaching and enriching the lives of young people. Amy Vanderoef and Cheryl “Action” Jackson will provide red carpet coverage via Facebook Live.

WFAA’s Dale Hansen will serve as the evening’s emcee while guests enjoy dinner, sponsored by E Smith Legacy, and a live auction.

From Event Chairs Carmaleta Whiteley Felton and Otis Felton:

We are honored to lead the 2017 Emmitt Smith Celebrity Invitational. The needs of our young citizens in North Texas are great. For the past eight years, Pat and Emmitt Smith have worked to address these needs. We are thrilled to join their team and campaign to give back to more than 100,000 North Texas children.

Legendary Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach, will present his namesake award, courtesy of Toyota, to Arizona Cardinals wide receiver and 2017 Walter Payton NFL Co-Man of the Year, Larry Fitzgerald, Jr. Larry is being honored for his exceptional work with The Larry Fitzgerald First Down Fund, a fund that supports education and recreation for youth, as well as supporting children and families experiencing health challenges.

From Larry Fitzgerald, Jr.:

I am truly honored to be receiving the Roger Staubach Award. Being able to give back to my community has always been an integral part of my life. The importance of ‘making a difference’ was instilled by my parents and it is something that I will continue to do long after my professional career ends.

On Saturday, May 13th, the Celebrity Invitational Golf & Tournament at TPC Craig Ranch, will have player/celebrity foursomes. Each foursome will be playing to win a $5,000 purse, sponsored by Waste Management.

Ticket Information:

Entry into the red carpet Gala on Friday, May 12th starts at $750 per person. There are limited tables available, starting at $10,000. Entertainment for the gala will be provided by the Emerald City band.

Pavilion passes for the Golf Tournament on Saturday, May 13th are $50 each.

For additional ticket and sponsorship details, please contact Executive Director, Dana Vilardi, at 972-468-0870. For more general event information, please visit http://www.emmittsmithcelebrityinvitational.com.

Proceeds benefit Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities, (PESC), a 501(c)(3) public charity that creates and funds unique educational experiences and enrichment opportunities for underserved children.