For Metro Detroit business leaders, some of the summer’s most meaningful networking opportunities are happening far from conference rooms and cocktail hours.
Across Metro Detroit this summer and early fall, golf outings are giving business leaders a reason to step out of the office, onto the course and into conversations that can strengthen professional networks and local communities.
They are also fueling some of the region’s most meaningful nonprofit work.
From housing and energy assistance to preventing utility shutoffs and expanding access to affordable housing to providing financial assistance for individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment, upcoming charity golf outings offer a chance to sharpen your game, grow your network and give back in one of the most time-honored summer formats.
“Some of the best partnerships start with a real conversation, and a day on the course creates space for that in a way a traditional meeting often does not,” said Jeff Hauptman, CEO, Oxford Companies. “Just as important, these events give companies and executives a meaningful opportunity to support nonprofits that are doing essential work in our communities. When relationship-building and giving back come together, everyone benefits.” The season tees off with The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) and its “Swing for THAW” Golf Outing on Friday, July 17, 2026, at Northville Hills Golf Club. The day begins with a 9 a.m. shotgun start and an 18-hole, four-person scramble. Players can compete in Longest Drive and Closest-to-the-Pin contests, along with a Hole-in-One Contest sponsored by Szott Ford featuring a 2026 Ford Bronco Sport lease prize. Golf pro and long drive competitor Hunter Noell will also be on-site. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served throughout the day. Participants can expect raffles, a silent auction and networking opportunities with community and business leaders. Proceeds support The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) in providing energy assistance and utility support to households facing financial hardship.
"Swing for THAW is about more than a great day on the golf course. It's an opportunity to make a real difference for families facing energy insecurity,” said Katrina McCree, Chief Executive Officer of THAW. “While many people think about utility assistance during the winter, the need exists year-round. The support we receive through this event helps THAW provide critical assistance to households struggling to keep up with utility costs and build long-term stability. We invite the community to join us as golfers, sponsors, or donors and help ensure Michigan families have access to the essential services they need."
One week later, Community Housing Network hosts its fourth annual “Connecting Fore a Cause” outing Friday, July 24, at Fountains Golf & Banquet in Clarkston. Presented by Oakwood Construction, more than 100 golfers, business leaders and supporters will take part in an 18-hole scramble. The outing features a full day of hospitality, including a Bloody Mary and mimosa bar, breakfast, a strolling lunch and a dinner buffet. Proceeds support Community Housing Network’s mission to prevent homelessness, expand affordable housing and connect individuals and families to housing resources across the region. Knight’s Annual Charity Golf Outing continues the season of giving on Monday, Aug. 10, 2026, with proceeds benefiting the Miles Jeffrey Roberts Foundation as the event’s 2026 charitable recipient. Also in Ann Arbor, the Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor’s 11th Annual Golf Outing Fore Youth Scholarships takes place Monday, Aug. 17, 2026. The annual outing raises critical scholarship support to help community families participate in the JCC’s camp, youth, JCC Maccabi and early childhood programs. This year’s event also honors Barry and Elaine Margolis. Both outings take place at The Polo Fields in Ann Arbor. Later in the season, the Shades of Pink Foundation hosts its “Nine, Wine and Dine” women’s outing on Tuesday, Sept. 22 at The Heathers Club in Bloomfield Hills. Now in its sixth year, the event combines a relaxed nine-hole format with wine and dinner, creating space for connection while raising funds for a critical cause. Proceeds support breast cancer patients across Southeast Michigan by helping cover essential daily living expenses during treatment.
Additional outings throughout the summer include Friends for Animals of Metro Detroit’s “Fore the Animals” on July 22, the Detroit Public Safety Foundation outing on July 13, Footprints of Michigan’s “Swing Fore Soles” on Aug. 16 and the NAACP Detroit Branch “Come To Tee” outing on Aug. 24, adding to a season where every swing carries impact beyond the scorecard.
