Toby Wells, respect

Toby frequently rescued many dogs from death in animal shelters by putting them to work at different locations as company watchdogs. He felt it wasn't as perfect as family life, but it beat the alternative these dogs faced. Many of these tough canines lived to be quite old and grew to be companions of employees. They were well cared for, and burial services were even held when they passed away.

The twin causes of welfare for animals and children were championed by Toby Wells, who was known for rescuing dogs from the animal shelter. His legacy and spirit now live on through the foundation.

For 14 years the Toby Wells Foundation has sponsored one of the signature charity events at Maderas Golf Club, with more than $2 million raised for funds to help underprivileged children and neglected animals in San Diego County.

The tournament began after his sisters established the Toby Wells Foundation and were seeking ways to raise funds and awareness for causes to honor the memory of their brother, who died at in May 2000 from medical complications after being paralyzed in a swimming accident.

“Our family was in the construction equipment industry,” Wells said about Contractors Equipment Company, a business her brother helped run until the family sold it in 1999. “A lot of our supporters were construction workers who really enjoyed golf.”

The family also funds the Toby Wells YMCA in Kearney Mesa, through which it serves unprivileged children and military families.

“Funds from the golf tournament are directly benefitting children,” Wells said of the event that takes four to five months of preparation by the family.

But tasks such as accumulating auction items and the like are a labor of love because of the good causes.

“And it all comes from San Diego, like the Padres and the Chargers,” West said. “And Maderas donates back too. Every bit helps.”

In all, nearly $14 million has been raised for the Toby Wells Foundation through a variety of endeavors.

Not bad for an event organized by two women who don’t play golf, helping kids and dogs

http://www.tobywells.org/tribute-toby

https://www.ocregister.com/2015/06/24/sisters-use-golf-as-a-way-to-raise-funds-in-their-brothers-memory/