EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) – There’s nothing like ringing in the holiday season, and this year it’s not being kicked off.

But rather, tee’d off.

The Dirty Birdie Lounge and Golf Bar in Eau Claire is bringing some Christmas spirit for their customers as part of their effort in giving back to the community.

Molly Schulteis-Tripp is a manager at the Dirty Birdie Lounge & Golf Bar.

“So we wanted to start this event to bring some holiday cheer to families in need. We thought it’d be fun to add in golf to make it more of a unique experience.” she said.

Bringing Toys for Tots to the golf lounge, with a competitive twist to it.

“And we wanted to add the competition to attract more people to donate and get involved with this organization.” Mary said.

Now you may be wondering how to win, and she’s got the answer for you.

“In the bar on the TV there will be a leader board, showing the top five longest drives. And then you can see how far you would have to drive the ball to beat somebody, or get the prize you were interested in.” Mary said.

Besides customers having the chance to be called a winner, staff at the Dirty Birdie say hosting the toy drive is the ultimate prize.

“I feel like this event is super important because all of the donations, toys and monetary donations are going to local families in the Chippewa Valley area. These are your neighbors, people that you work with, people that you went to school with, it’s a great way to give back to local community members.” Mary said.

Ella Bailkey is a bartender at the Dirty Birdie Lounge & Golf Bar.

“Whether it’s a cash donation or a toy itself, is amazing cause it’s going to go to somebody in need no matter what.” she said.

Ella also says she had personal experience with Toys for Tots last holiday season.

“I’ve actually worked in like volunteering like putting gifts together for all the children, so I get to see like what they like.” Ella said.

In attempts to pay it forward, with either cash or by donating toys that kids may like, there are some guidelines.

“You could bring crafts, toys, stuffed animals, as long as they’re new with like the tags on it.” Mary said.

And they’re not just for little kids.

“Toy donation will be for all ages from babies up to teenagers I believe.” Mary said.

The Dirty Birdie Lounge & Golf Bar will be hosting the drive until December 18.

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