Be Part of Something That Changes Lives

There’s a reason The Wheelhouse Golf Tournament (played in Memory of Ralph Russo) has lasted 38 years. People have seen what happens when a community shows up. We’ve seen lives rebuilt, families restored. When you see this, you don’t just attend, you come back.

Georgette Ford, Chairman of our Board, has been part of that story almost her entire life.

“I got involved with The Wheelhouse as a young child,” she shared. “My mother used to drive our station wagon and deliver fried chicken. We weren’t allowed to walk anywhere near the house, but it was nice to see that we were helping these men get sober.”

Years later, a simple invitation from Ralph Russo changed everything. One meeting turned into a seat on the board. And that seat turned into a calling.

“So voila,” she laughs, “I got stuck on the board!” Today, as Chairman of the Board, she’s still showing up.

So is her company, hiring men out of the program and helping them rebuild their lives. “It’s been so rewarding,” she says. “We enjoy helping these men get sober, find jobs, and become active members of society.”

For others, the connection is more personal.

“I love y’all because you helped my son,” one mother shared at last year’s tournament. “He’s been sober for 10 years now. He’s married, he has two beautiful children, and he’s doing really good. I just feel it’s my responsibility to come out here and support these guys.”

That’s what this day becomes for so many people, not just an event, but a response.

A way to give back for what’s been given.

The City of Deer Park sees The Wheelhouse not just as a program, but as a pillar.

“The Wheelhouse is such an integral part of Deer Park,” shared Sara Costlow, City Assistant Manager. “They deeply care about our community members and those they serve.”

Over the years, we’ve watched men go through the program, says Jay Stokes, City Manager. We have seen them rebuild and then turn around and invest back into our community.

“That’s what makes The Wheelhouse so special,” Jay said. “It’s a privilege to partner with The Wheelhouse.”

Join Us for the 38th Annual Tournament

This year, the story continues, and you’re invited,

The Battleground at Deer Park
Friday, May 1, 2026

Schedule of the Day:

• 7:00 AM – Registration & Breakfast
• 8:00 AM – Shotgun Start
• 12:00 PM – Lunch & Awards Ceremony

For Golfers: Step Onto the Course with Purpose

Bring your team. Invite your coworkers. Show up ready for a great day, and know that every swing on that course is contributing to something far greater than the game itself.

You’re helping write even more stories of men overcoming and rebuilding.

For Donors & Sponsors: Be the Reason Someone Gets a Second Chance

When you sponsor this tournament or make a financial contribution, you’re not just supporting an event. You’re helping provide housing, structure, and community for men who are fighting to rebuild their lives.

You’re helping create stories that will be told at this very tournament for years to come.

38 Years of Showing Up and We’re Not Done Yet

Now it’s your turn.

Register your team, become a sponsor, or support the mission:
https://thewheelhouse.org/event/golf-tournament-2026/

Come play. Come be part of a story that doesn’t end when the tournament does.