Community-Based Mentoring’s 14th Annual Golf Tournament raises clubs and funds

     Participants of the Community-Based Mentoring Program’s 14th Annual Golf Tournament didn’t just chip in– they went all in, for each and every student. Proceeds from this tournament will go to support both the Community-Based Mentoring Program and the Gwinnett County School Police Department's Explorers Program, and enrichment activities, mentoring initiatives, and scholarship opportunities.

     “Supporting enrichment activities and scholarship opportunities is an investment in our students’ futures. These experiences help students build confidence, develop leadership skills, and explore interests beyond the classroom,” says Hunter McRae, assistant director of the Community-Based Mentoring Program. “Scholarships, in particular, can open doors for students who may not otherwise have access to post-secondary opportunities.”

     McRae adds that funds raised from the tournament will help sustain and expand the Community-Based Mentoring Program, which connects students with caring adult mentors who provide guidance, encouragement, and support. Funds and contributions from sponsors help support enrichment opportunities for students such as college tours, internships, and career exposure, as well as scholarships for post-secondary education.

     These funds will also support the Gwinnett County School Police Department’s Explorers Program. Through this program, students are taught the basic duties of police officers, they engage in scenario-based learning, develop leadership skills, and learn to work in teams. Students also attend competitions with other Explorers chapters from all over the southeast. Funds help with registration fees, travel, room and board, and food, allowing students to attend more of these events with great confidence.

     “Many students who join are interested in the criminal justice field, such as police officer roles, investigations, and forensics, just to name a few,” says School Resource Officer Lt. Elizabeth Baldwin. “By joining this program, they get a glimpse of the criminal justice community and get a head start in the field.”

     Members of both organizations agree that “the tournament was a great success!”

     “It was a day filled with friendly competition, meaningful conversations, and a shared commitment to supporting our students,” McRae adds.

     Learn more about the Community-Based Mentoring Program, how to get involved, and submit an application to become a mentor on the webpage. Learn more about Gwinnett County School Police Department programs for young adults by following them on Instagram.