Mike Tyson Stands United with Charity at Celebrity Golf Tournament
Former world heavyweight boxing champion, and one-time ‘Baddest Man on the Planet,’ Mike Tyson teamed up with the Standing United charity to fight substance abuse and homelessness at their Aug. 2 charity golf tournament at Monarch Beach Golf Links, located at Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point, California.
Standing United is a non-profit organization helping people suffering from addiction and homelessness reintegrate into society and become upstanding citizens. Tyson and the Standing United organizers have been public with their issues of both homelessness and substance abuse.
“Being aligned with the cause behind Standing United is something I am very proud of and I enjoy being on their team,” says Tyson, whose public persona has completed a 180-degree turn over the past dozen years, as he has put a public face to the country’s ever-growing problem with substance abuse. “This golf tournament was a good way to raise awareness because the work they do is truly life-changing.”
Standing United works with law enforcement, community outreach programs, churches and volunteers to assist individuals experiencing homelessness and addiction. In any given night in Orange County, nearly 5,000 people are homeless. This provides the foundation of Standing United’s mission.
“We founded Standing United to make a difference and that is exactly what we are doing, day-by-day,” says Danny Lansdale, founder of Standing United. “We value all of our supporters, including [Mike] Tyson whose continued support, compassion and belief helps us realize our mission.”
Former boxers and football players headlined the group of golfers that also included entertainers, entrepreneurs and corporate executives. To compliment the event’s ambiance, a DJ played classic Motown tunes, while exhibitors from CBD and health brands kept non-golf playing guests occupied during the tournament.
The event included a photography session with Tyson, a $5,000 putting contest, a $100,000 ‘shoot-out’ and a VIP afterparty. Tyson Ranch, the boxer’s cannabis farm brand, was also on prominent display at the event. Attendees also shared their personal stories of overcoming obstacles in substance abuse.
“The tournament was a huge success and we are happy that we raised money in a fun way for such a serious problem,” says Tyson.
Standing United is already planning for upcoming activities and events. The charity connects individuals with professionals that teach them valuable skills to rejoin the workforce. They also assist with placement for housing and overall long-term support systems.
“Getting back on your feet can seem impossible when you are trying to overcome addiction,” says Lansdale. “Standing United does whatever it takes to show them that change is possible and they are not alone.”