Rayonier Advanced Materials (RYAM) and United Way of Northeast Florida announced earlier this month that RYAM raised $91,000—a new event record—for United Way during its 17th annual golf tournament in Fernandina Beach.

The United Way – RYAM Charity Golf Tournament occurred in November at The Amelia River Golf Club and The Golf Club of Amelia. Organized by RYAM’s Fernandina Beach plant, the event drew nearly 200 participants, including Northeast Florida business and community members, RYAM employees, United Way staff, in addition to friends and family of both organizations.

“At RYAM, we have a long history of supporting the United Way to help families in need meet their full potential,” said Mark Homans, the General Manager at RYAM’s Fernandina Beach plant. “We’re proud to give back to this community and support nonprofits in Northeast Florida that are delivering the resources required to address some of the toughest challenges in our neighborhoods.”

Since its inception, the tournament has raised $812,000 for partner agencies and the community.

“The support of the RYAM team is essential to improving economic mobility in our community,” said Melanie Patz, President and CEO of United Way of Northeast Florida. “We are grateful for RYAM’s generosity and the generosity of the tournament sponsors and participants, as are the countless families who will benefit from their efforts.”

The proceeds from this tournament will enhance the well-being of youth and families in Fernandina Beach and throughout Nassau County, through United Way and the organization’s collaborative network of partners. Funds raised during the tournament will be used to:

• Provide access to food
• Create housing stability
• Support mental health programs
• Strengthen financial well-being
• Promote diversity in our communities

“We’ve had a deep passion for this tournament and United Way for a long time,” shared Jeff Scott, Engineering Manager at RYAM’s Fernandina Beach Plant, who has organized the event for 17 years. “It’s far more than just golf – it’s about making a positive impact in our community. It’s rewarding to know that each year the proceeds support some of the most important nonprofits in Fernandina Beach and Nassau County.”

About United Way of Northeast Florida
Founded 100 years ago in 1924, United Way of Northeast Florida has earned a reputation as a respected and efficient philanthropic organization. United Way envisions a community of opportunity where everyone has hope and can reach their full potential. The organization’s mission is to solve Northeast Florida’s toughest challenges by connecting people, resources and ideas. United Way focuses on improving economic mobility in the following impact areas: basic needs, financial well-being and racial equity. The nonprofit organization’s long tradition of addressing the human-service needs in Duval, Baker, Clay, Nassau and northern St. Johns counties is made possible through the commitment of thousands of volunteers, donors and community partners. 100 years of serving and uniting Northeast Florida was only the beginning. To learn more, visit unitedwaynefl.org, or follow United Way of Northeast Florida on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

About Rayonier Advanced Materials (RYAM)

Rayonier Advanced Materials (RYAM) is a global leader of cellulose-based technologies, including high purity cellulose specialties, a natural polymer commonly found in filters, food, pharmaceuticals and other industrial applications. The Company also manufactures products for lumber, paper and packaging markets. With manufacturing operations in the U.S., Canada and France, RYAM employs just over 2,500 people and generates approximately $1.7 billion of revenues. More information is available at www.ryam.com.