The 2011 Toshiba Classic: A Community Affair

While most of the attention during the Toshiba Classic held at the Newport Beach Country Club goes to the professional golfers vying to get a piece of the $1.7 million purse, it's the work of hundreds of volunteers that ensures that the event is a success each year.

About 900 people donate their time for part or all of the Toshiba Classic, which wraps up Sunday. They work on security and trash details, and as marshals, parking attendants and more.

For many of the volunteers, it's a chance to give back to the community.

Since 1996, when the Newport Beach Country Club began hosting the tournament, the Toshiba Classic has raised $13 million for the Hoag Hospital Foundation. This year's goal is to raise more than $1 million.

In the days leading up to the tournament, which kicked off Friday, there are several events. The Pro-Am pairs professionals with amateurs, who pay $7,000 or $8,000 to play, according to Bay Clubs International CEO, Dave Wooten. The Pro-Am is part of the charitable contribution going to Hoag Hospital Foundation, specifically benefiting the Dick and Mary Allen Diabetes Center this year.

Local hotels, restaurants and tourist businesses also benefit during the tournament, which draws some 75,000 people into the city.