Womansplace, a McKeesport agency and shelter that serves victims of domestic violence in the Mon Valley, will hold its 13th annual golf fund-raiser on Sept. 15.

"Golfing to End Domestic Violence," is the largest annual fund-raiser for the agency, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The event will be held at the Youghiogheny Country Club in Elizabeth Township. Golf begins with a 12:15 shotgun start; lunch and registration are at 11 a.m. A cash bar, gourmet buffet dinner, auction and awards presentation end the day at 4:30 p.m. Cost for an individual golfer is $175; dinner only is $50.

Executive director Laurie Z. MacDonald said she hopes proceeds surpass the estimated $20,000 raised last year. The agency survives on government funding and generous contributions from individuals, businesses, corporations, trusts and foundations, but this year, extra money is needed to offset reduced federal funds, she said.

"After 9/11 and [Hurricane] Katrina, [federal] funds have been split among a larger group of victims. So, our dollars have been reduced," Ms. MacDonald said.

Money raised will be used for services and operational costs. The agency serves more than 4,000 abused women, children and men per year who phone the hot line -- 412-678-4616-- or are referred by authorities.

Ms. MacDonald said the growth of domestic violence in the agency's service areas has been "pretty consistent," with numbers increasing by about 5 percent each year.

Womansplace was founded in 1976 as a drop-in center for women. In 1980, its primary focus became domestic violence, so a 24-hour hot line was established and a safe home network opened. The first shelter opened in 1985. As demand for services increased, the agency purchased a building in 1987, renovated it, and in 1990 opened its current, larger shelter.

For golf event registration details or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.womansplace.org or call 412-678-4620, ext. 200.

To contact the agency's administrative office, call 412-678-4620.