LAPLACE — In 1999, Marathon Ashland employees were looking to find ways to help increase funding to the local St. John United Way–besides the traditional employee and corporate donations.

One way that this could be achieved was through an event. After much discussion, it was determined that a golfing event would be held. Marathon Ashland was excited to be part of such an event because of the benefit that would be received by the St. John United Way and its agencies.

In fact, Marathon Ashland adopted the leadership role in this event as an annual pledge to the community. This event has been a huge success since 1999 and tradition continued with the 6th Annual St. John United Way Golf Classic, which was held on October 14.

Despite scattered thunderstorms and light wind throughout the day, the spirit of care giving individuals could not be broken on that day.

With 72 foursomes and numerous cooks, sponsors and agencies awaiting a fun-filled day, the first flight of golfers tee’d off at 7:30 a.m. The proceeds from this year’s tournament is expected to exceed $50,000 and benefit 24 agencies / programs and hundreds of children and families will be helped.

Marathon Ashland and its employees are proud to continue to be a major supporter of the St. John United Way. More than $150,000 each year is raised through employee and corporate donations as well as the Golf Classic.

Marathon Ashland Petroleum LLC in Garyville, Louisiana is proud to be an active member in the community. The local company has consistently contributed to the local community by providing both monetary support as well as employee volunteers to participate in various events during the year.

In addition to spearheading efforts to improve Ezekiel Jackson Park, providing financial assistance to local educational institutions as well as to numerous local charities and being an Adopt-A-School Partner with East St. John Elementary, Marathon Ashland has a strong commitment to the United Way.