Sixth annual Driving the Stigma Out charity golf tournament raises funds for mental health programs

By: Kathleen Smith

The Tanner Steffler Foundation’s (TSF) annual Driving the Stigma Out charity golf tournament aims to raise $25,000 to support the TSF’s growing focus on mental health and substance use education, awareness, harm reduction, and prevention throughout Huron and Perth counties.

In its sixth year, the tournament brings together community members and local businesses to raise funds that directly support TSF’s mental health programs.

Whether a seasoned pro or a beginner, the event is for everyone.

"Events like our Driving the Stigma Out Golf Tournament make it possible for the TSF to continue providing free mental health and substance use supports for youth aged 12 to 29 and their caregivers across Huron and Perth counties,” said Lexi Harney, Sponsorship and Fundraising Coordinator with the TSF.

“Every golfer, sponsor, donor, and bidder helps ensure that young people in our communities can access support when they need it most."

While there are many great charity golf tournaments throughout the summer, Driving the Stigma Out is unique because it’s more than golf.

Harney explains that the tournament intentionally offers a community-focused event where people can come together, connect and have meaningful conversations about mental health and substance use.

Throughout the day, tournament organisers will be sharing information about the Foundation’s work and encouraging open conversations that help reduce stigma.

In addition, the tournament offers an online silent auction with more than $15,000 worth of items that anyone can participate in, whether golfing or not, giving more people the opportunity to support local youth mental health.

Every bid helps make mental health and substance use support more accessible for youth in the region.

Proceeds from the golf tournament will help the TSF subsidise the cost of essential mental health and addiction trainings, including programs such as Mental Health First Aid, Naloxone Training, and ASSIST. This will make these programs more accessible to individuals, workplaces, schools, and community organisations.

“Funds will also suppose educational workshops and awareness initiatives that equip community members with the knowledge and confidence to recognise concerns early, reduce stigma and support those who may be struggling,” added Harney.

In the instance of not being able to take part in the tournament, meaningful impacts can still be made by participating in the online silent auction.

Visit https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/tanner-steffler-foundations-silent-auction for the auction.

The sixth annual TSF Driving the Stigma Out charity golf tournament will be held on Saturday, July 25 at White Squirrel Golf Club, in Exeter.