The annual Founder’s Cup Charity Golf Classic, which was to take place Sept. 11 at Swan-e-set Bay Resort and Country Club, has been cancelled, another victim of a sputtering economy, say organizers.

The annual fundraiser has contributed close to $1.5 million for charity since it began 14 years ago. Half of that goes to support local charities, such as the Ridge Meadows Foundation, the Haney Rotary, the Asante Centre and the Maple Ridge Hospice Society.

However, given the current state of the economy, organizers felt the event’s format was no longer feasible.

“People just don’t have the same kind of discretionary income they used to,” said Founder’s Cup founder Ron Jones.

With fewer participants, each with a diminished ability to donate, it became clear the event’s format ($350 entry fee, as well as an auction and raffles) was no longer working.

The tournament will be back, Jones promised, but how and in what form is yet to be decided.

The Founder’s Cup is not the only charity organization feeling the pinch in these tough economic times. Although there are signs the Canadian economy is on the rebound – Statistics Canada reported on Monday 0.1 per cent economic growth nationally in the month of June – that has yet to translate into donations.

Annika Polegato, development officer for the Ridge Meadows Hospital Foundation, said donations to the local hospital charity have declined in the past year.

“We’re facing a similar challenge as many non-profits right now,” she said. “People have continued to donate, but the average donation is down.”

Private donations and grants from charitable organizations have also declined.

Golf membership raffle

The Founder’s Cup Foundation is currently holding a raffle for a one-year membership at the Swan-e-set, Belmont and Hazelmere golf courses valued at more than $20,000, donated by the West Coast Golf Group. Tickets are $100, with 350 available. Email participate@founderscup.com for ticket information.