Dedicated Patrons Support Hannah’s Hope Rain or Shine at 9th Annual Charity Golf Outing

Dedicated Patrons Support Hannah’s Hope Rain or Shine at 9th Annual Charity Golf Outing

On a rainy Saturday, Hannah’s Hope packed the Brassie Golf Club to capacity for their 9th Annual Charity Golf Outing. Golfers, volunteers, and other supporters prowled the greens at the Chesterton golf club as they showed their support for the ever-growing nonprofit.

Hannah’s Hope is a local charity founded by Mike and Mary Martinez, named in honor of their daughter, Hannah, who was born with brain damage caused by a possible prenatal stroke. Their mission is to help children with special needs around the Region by providing equipment like specialized strollers, wheelchairs, helmets, and more that can help children reach developmental milestones. While the organization hosts many events throughout the year, the annual Golf Outing holds a special place in everyone’s hearts as the first official event they ever hosted.

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“At our first golf outing, we were so nervous getting everything together,” said Pauline Milanowski, one of Hannah’s Hope’s original volunteers. “We had meetings in the kitchen, and Hannah was at those meetings. She couldn’t really speak, but she loved the chatter and would always turn to listen to the person talking. It’s just wonderful knowing that we’re doing this all for her and to help children that are struggling like she was.”

Despite constant rain and the threat of storms, supporters used the entire fleet of golf carts at the Brassie Golf Club. The regular supporters are no strangers to unexpected circumstances at the nonprofit’s events but no matter what, the day is a highlight of the year.

“This rain is nothing. Normally there’s always something crazy happening at Hannah’s Hope like lightning, storms, or hail,” said Brad Mumma, who has participated in all 9 outings. “It’s always worth it to come out and support the cause. Mike and Mary are close friends, and my wife’s a special education teacher, so this is something we take a lot of pride in doing and it’s an honor to be here.”

Other than the 18 hole, 4-man scramble tournament, the event offered lunch, dinner, a bake sale, silent auction, and prizes for achievements like the longest putt. For those skilled enough, there were two separate hole-in-one challenges where the winner would be awarded a new car. Last year, the event raised over $20,000 for the nonprofit, and this year was set to exceed that with people traveling all the way up from Florida to take part.

“The level of support is absolutely incredible,” said Megan Witherspoon-Minter, Vice President at Hannah’s Hope. “We know we’re doing something right when people come out like this even when it’s raining and they all have a smile on their face.”

Learn more about the story and mission behind Hannah’s Hope at www.hannahshope.org.