On a bright and sunny Monday morning, dozens of golfers teed up at the Toledo County Club for Zepf Center’s Christmas in July Golf Outing. Thanks to the generous support of participants and sponsors throughout Northwest Ohio and Michigan, proceeds from this annual event fund Zepf Center’s Holiday Shoppe which purchases toys, warm clothing, and household essentials for over 200 families during the winter holiday season.

The 2024 outing welcomed 128 golfers, 33 sponsors, and raised over $25,000.

This year’s 18-hole scramble was carefully planned by a committee of Zepf Center staff volunteers who generously donated their time and talents to ensure another successful event. Once again leading the team, Executive Assistant Juana Barrow used her event planning expertise to create a fun and engaging outing for golfers of all skill levels.

“We have over a dozen staff who volunteer their time to plan this event months in advance,” said Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores. “I am very thankful for their continued dedication and teamwork." 

Alongside staff volunteers, the annual golf outing is made possible by community partners and sponsors who support Zepf Center’s mission to be the leader in hope and recovery throughout Northwest Ohio. Their contributions not only benefit clients through the Holiday Shoppe but also help raise awareness about Zepf Center’s services and break down the stigma associated with mental health and substance use treatment.

“Zepf Center provides much-needed resources for our community year-round,” said Board of Trustees President Chris Pawson. “This event goes beyond fundraising and aims to raise awareness for and support those in our community who receive vital behavioral health services from Zepf.”

This year’s event was exceptionally special as Zepf Center celebrates 50 years of serving Northwest Ohio. Throughout its long history, the agency has been committed to providing high-quality, accessible, and person-centered care. Although Zepf Center has grown above and beyond the vision of its founder Elizabeth A. Zepf, it continues to meet client needs and employ innovative approaches to care.

To celebrate this milestone, this year’s event had a tropical theme, complete with a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus who took time away from their summer break to chat with participants, pose for photos, and hand out gifts to lucky participants.

 “We are incredibly thankful to our sponsors, volunteers, participants, and staff for making this year’s Christmas in July Golf Outing another wonderful success,” said Flores. “We are very fortunate to be part of such a supportive community and we look forward to hosting our Holiday Shoppe this December.”

This year’s event was successful thanks to each golfer, Zepf Center volunteer, and supportive community member. Special thanks to our 2024 Golf Outing Committee and our 2024 Sponsors:

Although this year’s outing is in the rearview, there are still opportunities to contribute to Zepf Center and support our mission of hope and recovery. Visit zepfcenter.org/landing/donate to donate today, or email [email protected] for more information. 

CLICK HERE to view the photo gallery from this year's event!