On Monday, August 24, 2026, the community came together for a day of sunshine, solidarity, and purpose at the Annual Emerald Classic Charity Golf Event, held at TPC Piper Glen. With 120 golfers teeing off for a cause greater than the game itself, the event was a powerful demonstration of how sports and service can unite us to support youth in recovery.
The event began under blue skies, with golfers arriving full of energy and ready to make a difference. With tee-off starting at 12:00 PM, the event set the tone for a day filled with camaraderie, fun, and meaning. As the teams took to the course, laughter and encouragement echoed across the greens. For many, the day was not just about their swing—it was about showing up for a cause that matters deeply.
This event benefitted Emerald School of Excellence, Charlotte’s only recovery high school which helps students and families navigate the challenges of substance use and mental health with compassion and care.
Thanks to the generosity of participants and sponsors, the charity golf event raised over $60,000—funds that will directly impact students in need of academic and emotional support. These dollars help strengthen our financial aid fund which makes our program accessible to any family who may need it.
This year’s success would not have been possible without the incredible backing of our sponsors:
Each sponsor played a vital role in helping us extend the reach of our mission. Their support is helping remove barriers for youth and families facing the devastating impacts of substance use and mental health disorders.
Events like this one go far beyond fundraising. They bring visibility to the challenges teens face and help normalize conversations around substance use and mental health. Stigma remains one of the biggest obstacles preventing young people from seeking help. This event is about creating space where stories can be shared, support can be offered, and hope can grow.
Emerald School of Excellence works year-round to provide a structured academic environment for students in recovery. By pairing education with accountability, mentorship, and compassion, Emerald empowers teens to rewrite their stories and plan for a better future.
Together, these organizations remind us that recovery is not only possible—it’s something worth celebrating.
Each year, our golf event grows in impact and reach. Our 2026 event marked another step forward in building awareness and raising funds to serve more students and families. We are incredibly grateful to our community, volunteers, sponsors, and attendees who showed up for teens in recovery.
If you missed this year’s event but want to be involved in future events, there are many ways to support. Whether through sponsorship, donations, or participation, your involvement makes a lasting difference. Reach out to us at emeraldschool.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay connected.
