The 27th annual Golf Classic benefiting Ohio’s Hospice teed off at The Links at Echo Springs, bringing together 84 golfers and 25 staff and volunteers for a day of fundraising and friendly competition. The event successfully raised $34,000, demonstrating strong community support for the organization’s mission. 

Proceeds from the tournament will fund several key initiatives, including Pathways of Hope, a children’s bereavement camp, quality of life needs, and unreimbursed patient care and services. One significant beneficiary is Camp HOCO, a free four-day bereavement program for children who have experienced loss. 

The day’s highlight came when Sarah Matesich Schwab, President and Chief Operating Officer of Matesich Distributing, scored a hole-in-one on the 17th. Her ace drew cheers from across the course, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event. 

Local businesses showed their support through various sponsorship levels. Platinum sponsors included Licking Memorial Health Systems, Matesich Distributing and Michelob Ultra, and Newark Moose Lodge #499. The Granville Investment Group provided gold-level sponsorship, with several other local companies contributing at silver and bronze levels. 

Ohio’s Hospice emphasizes that fundraising events like the Golf Classic are crucial for supporting its mission of providing superior care and superior services when it matters most, regardless of the patient’s ability to pay. The organization has already set its sights on the future, announcing the next Golf Classic for June 13, 2025. 

“These events allow us to continue our mission of Celebrating Life’s Stories and providing compassionate, supportive care to those in need,” said a spokesperson for Ohio’s Hospice. “We’re grateful for the community’s ongoing support.”