Teeing up for a cause: Branson Regional Arts Council, Arising-N-Hope host charity golf tournament

A little friendly competition turned into a day of giving in Branson recently.

The Branson Regional Arts Council and Arising-N-Hope Clothing Outreach joined forces for a charity golf tournament at Holiday Hills Golf Club, bringing golfers, volunteers and community supporters together for a two-person scramble filled with competition, prizes and plenty of fun while raising funds for both nonprofit organizations.

The tournament marked BRAC’s second annual event and the first year the organization partnered with Arising-N-Hope. Wendy Youngblood, BRAC board member and fundraising committee chair, said joining forces with another nonprofit was an opportunity to grow the event and expand its reach.

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Top Row: First-place winners Shannon Justus and Robyn Rossi celebrate after finishing at the top of the two-person scramble during the BRAC and Arising-N-Hope charity golf tournament at Holiday Hills Golf Club; James Neugebauer hits the course during the BRAC and Arising-N-Hope charity golf tournament at Holiday Hills Golf Club. Bottom Row: Golfers enjoy a morning on the green while supporting two local nonprofits during the charity golf tournament at Holiday Hills Golf Club; Teams make their way through 18 holes of friendly competition during the BRAC and Arising-N-Hope charity golf tournament. (Photos by Joelene Powell)

“By teaming up with another nonprofit, I feel like we’re reaching more people and we’re able to help both organizations,” Youngblood said.

Arising-N-Hope President Joelene Powell worked alongside Youngblood to coordinate the joint fundraiser. Arising-N-Hope volunteers welcomed golfers with breakfast and snacks and kept teams hydrated throughout the tournament.

Sharon Smith, vice president of Arising-N-Hope, said the turnout and community support made the day a success.

“It was a great time. I’m so thankful to everyone who came out to play and support Arising-N-Hope and the Branson Regional Arts Council. We’re looking forward to doing it again next year,” Smith said.

Golfers made their way through 18 holes at Holiday Hills during the two-person scramble, enjoying a morning of friendly competition before the final scores were tallied.

Shannon Justus and Robyn Rossi finished the tournament in first place, with Kamden Sutton and Kyle Sutton taking second place.

Youngblood said the support from Holiday Hills was an important part of the tournament’s success, with head professional Mac McNish working closely with organizers to make the day enjoyable for both the golfers and volunteers.

“Mac is so easy to work with, and he really helped us create the kind of tournament we wanted, where people could come out, enjoy a day of golf and support two great organizations,” Youngblood said.

The event would not have been possible without the volunteers, sponsors and community partners who gave their time and support. Sponsors included Dr. Arthur Hale and his Mercy team, Todd Hauger, mortgage loan officer with Generations Bank, Chris Hammen with Shelter Insurance, Branson Globe, Swag by Inked LLC and Trevor’s Concrete LLC.

The fundraising continues beyond the golf course with $5 raffle tickets benefiting BRAC and Arising-N-Hope. Each ticket gives supporters a chance to win either a Silver Dollar City family four-pack or half of the 50/50 cash pot. The drawing will be held on Oct. 15.

For more information about the fundraiser or to purchase raffle tickets, contact Wendy Youngblood at 417-239-5793 or Joelene Powell at 417-294-7624.

Mark your calendar: The 2027 charity golf tournament is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 3, at 1 p.m. at Holiday Hills Golf Club in Branson.