TDS Telecom makes historic donation through 2026 TDS Open
Annual fundraiser delivers largest charitable contribution in history to two nonprofits
MADISON, Wis. (July 17, 2026) — TDS Telecommunications LLC (TDS®) is proud to support two impactful nonprofits in its service areas after raising a record-breaking $308,000 through the 2026 TDS Open charity golf event.
Building on the momentum of last year's milestone fundraiser—which pushed cumulative TDS Open donations beyond $1 million since the event began in 2011—the company reached new heights in 2026. Proceeds will benefit Felicia's Donation Closet in Madison, Wisconsin, and Youth Futures in Ogden, Utah. Each nonprofit received $154,000 at the event, held at University Ridge Golf Course in Verona, Wisconsin.
“The success of this year’s TDS Open is a testament to what can happen when associates, vendors, and community partners come together to make a difference,” said Drew Petersen, senior vice president of Corporate Affairs at TDS Telecom. “Raising a record $308,000 allows us to make a meaningful impact for two organizations that change lives every day, and we’re grateful to everyone who helped make this achievement possible.”
Felicia’s Donation Closet helps survivors of domestic abuse establish safe, stable homes by providing furniture and essential items. Founded by domestic abuse survivor Felicia Raye Diny, the nonprofit has helped hundreds of women and children in the Madison area transition from crisis to comfort and independence.
“My passion for helping women build independent lives after escaping domestic abuse comes from personal experience," said Diny. "Every woman deserves the chance to create a safe, comfortable home for herself and her children. This generous support from TDS will help us continue providing hope, stability, and a fresh start for families when they need it most."
Youth Futures is a Utah-based nonprofit that provides emergency shelter, outreach, and support services for homeless, runaway, and unaccompanied youth. Since 2015, the organization has helped thousands of young people access the resources needed to build brighter futures.
“The generosity of TDS will have a lasting impact on the lives of the young people we serve throughout Southern Utah,” said Kristen Mitchell, founder and executive director of Youth Futures. “We’re thankful for TDS’ partnership and commitment to helping vulnerable youth find hope, confidence, and opportunity.”
The 2026 TDS Open had more than 70 sponsors, including title sponsor Lighthouse Technologies, who contributed $25,000. Platinum-level support ($15,000) came courtesy of Clearfield, Copilot Networks, Millennium Broadband Solutions, PLP, Quanta Telecommunication Solutions, TAK Broadband, and Techwave. Executive-level ($7,500) sponsors included AE Business Solutions & Palo Alto Networks, Belden, Cisco, Congruex, Embarc Solutions, Evolution Digital, F-Secure, Full Circle Fiber, GDT, KGPCo, Lumen Technologies, Netceed, Nokia, Plume, Salesforce, Sidley Austin LLP, and Sunrise Telecom.
