/PRNewswire/ -- The BayPort Foundation's fifth annual Charity Golf Classic gathered community leaders, businesses, and supporters for another record-setting success, generating $232,920 and elevating the Foundation's five-year fundraising total to $1.8 million.

Conducted at James River Country Club in Newport News, the tournament attracted 112 players and relied on backing from 47 sponsoring businesses and individuals devoted to advancing the Foundation's community-focused mission. Key Platinum Sponsors were Candescent, Lucro Commercial Solutions, North River Construction, and Velera.

The occasion featured the 3^rd Annual Wine Tasting and Dinner at Circa 1918 in Newport News. Highlights included a five-course dinner created by Chef Chad Martin, complemented by South American wine pairings from Matt Earnhardt of Winebow Fine Wines and Spirits.

BayPort President/CEO and Foundation Chairman Jim Mears unveiled a substantial growth in the annual $100,000 Scholarship Program. From next year, funding will expand to $150,000 to address rising student needs and widen educational access throughout the region.

The bolstered initiative will raise award levels and provide stronger assistance for students following a 2x2 pathway - two years at community college followed by transfer to a four-year university - with scholarships able to cover most, if not all, community college tuition expenses. The Foundation is also enhancing options for working adults with greater flexibility for programs at colleges, universities, trade schools, or vocational institutions.

Apart from scholarships, the Foundation delivers lasting benefits via grants to entities including Boys and Girls Clubs of the Virginia Peninsula, Habitat for Humanity, Peake Childhood Center, Peninsula Rescue Mission, and Virginia Peninsula Foodbank. It further aids education and workforce development alongside Newport News Public Schools and Virginia Beach City Public Schools.

About BayPort
Founded in 1928 by 12 shipyard workers from Newport News Shipbuilding, BayPort Credit Union was established on the conviction that all deserve reliable financial services. Today, BayPort holds a Bauer Financial 5-Star Superior rating, manages $2.7 billion in assets, and serves more than 156,000 individuals and businesses across 31 Virginia branches. BayPort membership welcomes local residents, families, and nationwide participants via eligible organizations.

SOURCE BayPort Credit Union