Golfers eagerly grabbed their clubs and hit the green for Paladin’s annual golf outing, “Birdies for Abilities,” at Highland’s Wicker Memorial Park Golf Course on Friday, August 30. Accompanied by fun camaraderie under the summer sun, the outing served as one of the biggest ways Paladin raised funds for its services to help those with developmental and intellectual disabilities throughout the year.
“We host several events like this each year, and one of our favorites is the golf outing. It’s an opportunity for our community to come together, raise awareness, and make lasting connections,” said Paladin President and CEO Steve Hobby. “The support we receive at these events is vital, not just for funding, but for fostering a sense of community around the individuals we serve. Today’s golf outing will also shine a light on our programs like non-emergency medical transportation and our early education centers in Michigan City."
Hosting the outing in Highland brought an exciting twist to a well-loved tradition for Paladin. Outings in previous years were typically held in the La Porte County area – Friday’s event marked the first time it has made its way over to Lake County. The switch was made to let people know Paladin is here to help far and wide across the Region, even if people may recognize it by a different name in the area.
“This would be our third year for it, but it's our first year in Lake County,” Hobby said. “The reason this is pretty important is because Paladin was originally under Arc of Northwest Indiana here, and people know that name, but they don’t know Paladin. We're trying to bring awareness to Lake County and let them know we've been here for a very long time. We just have a different name.”
Knowing so many people are excited to step in and support the Paladin mission always brings a warm smile to Hobby’s face, no matter the name or where in the Region they may be.
“It’s great to see everyone who comes out, and it's a fun day anytime you're out of the office. I'm a horrible golfer, but you know, it gives me an opportunity to be out here,” Hobby laughed. “All of the people who are here are amazing. We really appreciate everybody who supports us in any way.”
This includes Indiana State Senator Mike Bohacek, who has always been happy to reach for his clubs when the outing comes around each year. His daughter utilizes Paladin's services, so he’s been able to see firsthand just how much the company can positively impact people’s lives for the better. Bohacek is a champion of Paladin through and through and is always willing to chip in and help the organization whenever possible.
“Paladin has been a great partner for our intellectually disabled community, so we have to rally behind places like this, especially because funding is tight for everybody,” Bohacek said. “I bring friends too, and friends can become your new supporters. That's what events like this are about. It's not about raising money – it's about raising awareness, and this brings us new partners and new folks to get involved and engaged.”
Another longtime Paladin supporter and outing attendee includes La Porte County Commissioner Richard Mrozinski, who absolutely loves what the organization does. Like Bohacek, he’s proud to do his part to help his friends at Paladin out where he can.
“I've been involved with Paladin for a long time,” Mrozinski said. “One time when I was on the county council prior to being a commissioner, the Swanson Center was the main mental health facility for La Porte County, and this was back when Paladin was still Michiana Industries. I took it upon myself to work to try to get them more money from the state, and we're at a point now where we can do that. I'm very happy to support Paladin. They're an amazing organization. They do a lot of good things.”
Additionally, fun prizes and challenges were in store for the golfers throughout the afternoon, including a chance to win a car through a hole-in-one contest, among many others. With the help of Paladin team members, friends, family, business partners, sponsors, and many others who came together for Friday’s golf outing, its services are now able to both continue and expand for many years to come, bringing a smile to everyone’s faces all across the Region.
For more information about Paladin, the services it offers, and how to get involved, please visit paladin.care.
