At Family Golf Week, we’ve always celebrated more than just great golf. We celebrate family, friendships, traditions, and the incredible people who make this event so special both on and off the course.
That’s why we’re proud to introduce a brand-new honor for 2026 — the Family Golf Week Ambassador of the Year Award.
This new award recognizes a participant from either of the divisions—Father Son Team Classic or the Family Team Classic—who go above and beyond in supporting their communities through charitable work, nonprofit involvement, and causes that make a lasting impact on the lives of others.
We are incredibly honored to recognize Lynn Messer as the inaugural recipient of the Family Golf Week Ambassador of the Year Award.
Lynn, a former Wisconsin-Upper Michigan Kiwanis District Governor (2012), launched the Wisconsin-Upper Michigan Kiwanis Austim Project, the now signature project of the Wisconsin-Upper MichiganKiwanis District.
Since its creation, the project has:
+ Provided more than 1,815 iPads to children with autism
+ Raised over $800,000
+ Changed countless lives through communication, learning, and support opportunities for children with autism
The project’s mission is simple but powerful: Providing iPads and funding for children with autism of families in need.
Lynn and his son, John, have been part of Family Golf Week for many years, and we are so proud to recognize the incredible impact Lynn has made far beyond the golf course.
Yes…We Had To “Lie” Again
Much like our Father of the Year surprise announcement, we similarly stretched the truth to surprise Lynn with the news. At this point, we’re starting to get pretty good at it.
It was incredible special to surprise Lynn and hear more about the inspiration behind this amazing project. Be sure to watch a sneak peek into his story.
Lynn is planning to speak during Family Golf Night, where attendees will have the opportunity to hear more about the project and the lives it continues to impact.
Want to Learn More or Support the Cause?
If you’d like to learn more about the Wisconsin-Upper Michigan Kiwanis Autism Project or make a donation to support their mission, click here.