Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive to their fullest capacity. At D&F Charity Trust, we believe in doing Whatever it Takes to help make that possible—whether through scholarships for the next generation of agricultural leaders or life-changing support for children with special needs. This is the story of how one little boy, his family, and a caring network of supporters came together to create brighter days.
The Mission of D&F Charity Trust
For nearly three decades, D&F Charity Trust has worked to give back to the communities where D&F has roots. What began as a way to provide scholarships to agriculture students at Auburn University has grown into a great philanthropic outlet that impacts both education and children’s health across Alabama and Arkansas.
Each year, D&F Charity Trust hosts Golf Classics in Alabama and Arkansas, raising funds that support scholarships for students at Auburn University and the University of Arkansas, and providing contributions to Children’s Rehabilitation Services in Alabama and Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Through these efforts, D&F Charity Trust has funded opportunities for students to pursue their futures in agriculture and has helped children with special needs receive equipment, therapies, and resources that open doors to greater independence and joy.
Myles’ Story
One of the children touched by the mission of D&F Charity Trust is four-year-old Myles Rush. His mother describes him as a sweet, joyful, and silly little boy who loves life and brightens the world around him.
Myles lives with cerebral palsy and other disabilities, which make everyday activities more challenging. Sitting up independently isn’t possible for him, but thanks to a special piece of equipment, that challenge has become more manageable.
With the help of Children’s Rehabilitation Services (CRS), the Rush family received a Rifton Activity Chair—purchased through funding provided by D&F Charity Trust. This chair has been nothing short of transformative for the Rush family. It gives Myles the support to sit upright comfortably, something most people rarely think twice about, yet Myles had long gone without. With the activity chair, mealtimes are easier, daily routines are smoother, and his world has expanded in ways both practical and profound. Perhaps most importantly, the chair securely holds his Eye Gaze device, a tool that allows him to communicate and interact with others. It also provides a safe, stable place for therapy, play, and simply being included in the flow of family life.
For Myles’ mom, Patronya, the impact has been life-changing:
“It has been so great for him to be sitting up well with no problems. As Myles cannot sit up due to his disabilities, this chair has been a Godsend for our family. You at D&F and CRS have truly been a blessing to children with disabilities. Keep being that blessing.”
The Impact of the Alabama Golf Classic
On September 5, 2025, D&F Charity Trust wrapped up its 26th Annual Alabama Golf Classic at RTJ Silver Lakes. While the day was filled with golf, fellowship, and fun, its impact will stretch far beyond the course.
Funds raised at events like this directly support beneficiaries such as Children’s Rehabilitation Services, the very organization that helped provide Myles with his activity chair. When supporters step in as sponsors, players, or donors, they are doing more than joining a golf tournament—they are lifting daily burdens for mothers like Patronya and opening doors for children like Myles. Their generosity makes possible more independence, more opportunity, and more joy.
Whatever it Takes
Myles’ story is one of many. Behind every scholarship awarded and every piece of equipment provided is a child, a student, or a family whose life is changed by the generosity of D&F Charity Trust supporters.
At D&F Charity Trust, our mission is simple: do Whatever it Takes to make a difference. When you give, when you sponsor, and when you play in our Golf Classics, you become part of a legacy of hope and opportunity.
Thank you for helping us make stories like Myles’ possible.
