Bonita Springs, Florida–Bonita National Golf & Country Club recently concluded a month of fundraising events to benefit the Els for Autism Foundation with a one-of-a-kind Dog Reception. Twenty-five dogs(and their owners) attended the reception, which featured samples of Ernie Els Champion Pet products as well as prizes donated by PetSmart and Sunshine Ace Hardware.

The fun, dog-themed reception capped off the month-long fundraising activities by the club. In total Bonita National raised $3,000 from events that included a 5k walk/run, golf events, a South-African themed steak night, golf tournament raffles, and artisan market contributions.

“I was inspired to attend this event due to my passion for giving back to children in need. Dogs hold a very special place in my heart as well, so it was the perfect event to attend,” said Charlotte Malek-Backman. a member and resident of Bonita National. “My dog and I were able to hang out and socialize with others for a great cause.”

April is annually recognized as World Autism Month. Liezl and Ernie Els established the Els for Autism Foundation in 2009. Their son Ben is impacted by autism spectrum disorder which affects 1 in 44 children in the U.S. The Foundation offers innovative evidence-based programs for families and individuals across the life span in six focus areas: Education, Research, Global Support, Recreation Services, Adult Services and Therapy Services. The Els for Autism Foundation serves families around the world and also offers in-person programs and services at The Els Center of Excellence in Jupiter, Florida.

Bonita National Golf and Country Club, a Troon Prive’ managed club, is dedicated to supporting charities and organizations in and around the Lee and Collier counties’ communities. The Bonita National gated community, bordered by a nature preserve, consists of 1,459 homes with all residents as social members and 866 possessing full golf memberships. The Club’s Gordon Lewis designed 18 hole championship golf course opened in 2014 and winds its way through the community. Other amenities include a Tennis Center featuring 8 Har-Tru courts, a fitness center with multiple exercise studios, and the latest in cardio and strength training equipment. Members also enjoy a variety of treatments at the Club’s U-Topia Spa.

Bonita National’s 40,000-square-foot clubhouse has multiple dining venues, including the main dining room, The GrillRoom, the Clubhouse Terrace, and screened-in Poolside Cafe. The resort-style pool has a zero-entry, a lap pool and a beautiful waterfall. There are 3 satellite pools located around the community for residents to enjoy. Bonita National has all the ingredients to become a name of reference for those looking for an active lifestyle community in Southwest Florida.

For more information on Bonita National please visit www.BonitaNationalGolfCC.com