(Middletown, RI) June 17, 2024 – Under perfect weather conditions at The Aquidneck Club, the “Drive for Mental Health” Charity Golf Tournament, presented by Horan Building Company, brought together community members and local businesses in an inspiring display of competition and camaraderie. This annual event, benefiting Newport Mental Health, raised more than $112,000 to support essential programs and services for individuals facing behavioral health and substance use challenges.
Participants enjoyed an exhilarating day on the course with last year’s champions, Andrew Tuchler, Chad Kritzas, Joe LoCascio, and new team member Adam Maust, retaining their title with an impressive score of 56. Teams from Horan Building Company, Fishers Island Lemonade, and M. Barboza & Sons Roofing tied for second place, trailing by just four strokes.
Beyond the exciting golf performances, attendees enjoyed a lively auction, prize drawings, and a poignant speaking program. Dayna Gladstein, President & CEO of Newport Mental Health, delivered heartfelt remarks, highlighting the critical impact of community support. “This event proves that when a community comes together, we can truly make a difference,” she stated. “Thanks to your generous support, Newport Mental Health continues to be the leading resource for those in Newport County struggling with mental health or substance use. Our organization is recognized for providing exceptional care both statewide and nationally, and thanks to supporters like you, we have no plans of slowing down!”
Mark Horan, President and Founder of Horan Building Company, expressed his gratitude for all in attendance and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Newport Mental Health. Additionally, Eve Condon and Lynell Masterson from the Rhode Island Outreach (RIO) program presented an insightful overview of the behavioral health crisis team, sharing compelling stories of how RIO is making a significant impact on community members in crisis, guiding them toward recovery and understanding that help is available.
A lively auction followed the remarks, and featured Red Sox box seats, a foursome at the Aquidneck Club, and a vacation rental at Loon Mountain, which prompted a spirited bidding war. The evening then wrapped up with the final awards, where the winning team accepted the silver cup. On-course contest winners were Brendon Moran, closest to the pin; Jeff Melillo, longest drive, men; and Emma Abenante, longest drive, ladies. Sadly, no one drove home in the gorgeous new Jeep Wrangler offered by Newport Jeep to anyone who holed out on 17.
Presenting sponsor was Horan Building Company. Additional generous sponsors included Donovan Plumbing and Heating, golf cart sponsor; Fishers Island Lemonade, beverage sponsor; National Security, lunch sponsor; Farrar & Associates, dinner sponsor; Newport Jeep, hole-in-one sponsor, Wilmington Trust, snack shack sponsor; Centreville Bank, longest drive sponsor; Kirby Perkins Construction, closest to the pin sponsor; Neighborhood Health Plan, 50/50 raffle sponsor.
Pin flag sponsors were Integrated Healthcare Partners, Newport Hospital, Corrigan Financial, BankNewport, and Sachuest Ventures. Tee sign sponsors were The Beacon Foundation, David and Jean Kelly, Bruno Painting, Fitzpatrick Team/ReMax, Lila Delman | Compass, A1 Roofing and Construction, Monument Financial Group, and M. Barboza & Sons Roofing.
Newport Mental Health extends its deepest appreciation to all participants, sponsors, and contributors who made this event possible. Together, we are driving change and making a lasting difference in the lives of those who live, work, and study in Newport County.
