'Hacking for Heroes' to raise funds for local families and community outreach

Annual BMPD fundraiser returns to Black Mountain Golf Course

Fred McCormick
The Valley Echo
May 17, 2023

The Black Mountain Police Department will host its annual fundraising golf tournament, “Hacking for Heroes,” June 9. The event, which will be held at the Black Mountain Golf Course, supports the department’s holiday initiatives and Teen Cadet program. Photo by Fred McCormick

While the holidays are still months away, the Black Mountain Police Department’s efforts to make the season brighter for local families are already underway, as the Hacking for Heroes golf tournament will return for its second year, at 10:30 a.m., Friday, June 9. 

The fundraiser, held at the Black Mountain Golf Course, supports the department’s community outreach programs and initiatives. 

The tournament is supported by local businesses, and multiple sponsorship opportunities are still available, according to BMPD Chief Steve Parker. The majority of the proceeds support the department’s annual community outreach programs, which distributes Thanksgiving meals and Christmas gifts to local families in need.

“Our hopes have always been to continue to expand this program so we can serve more,” Parker said. “Our biggest need for this year is sponsorships, because we’ve seen a decrease up to this point.”

Businesses and community groups can support Hacking for Heroes through its gold, silver or platinum level sponsorship opportunities, the chief added.

Black Mountain Police Chief Steve Parker greets a volunteer Santa Claus last December, as families visited the station to collect Christmas gifts. The program was supported by funds raised at the Hacking for Heroes golf tournament, which returns, June 9. Photo by Fred McCormick

“Participation not only helps us purchase holiday meals and gifts, it also assists the department with its Teen Cadet program and incentive programs for our officers,” Parker said. “It’s also a fun way to spend a Friday afternoon at the Black Mountain Golf Course.”

The tournament features teams of four and allows participants to purchase Mulligan packages, which entitles golfers to a second attempt on poorly hit shots.

“We also have a golf pro who will come hit a shot for you, if you want,” the chief said. “He hits like 400 yards, so that can provide some relief for golfers in certain situations. We actually shot what was essentially a golf cannon on the (747-yard) par 6, and people really enjoyed that.”

Last year, BMPD utilized approximately $15,000 raised in the tournament to support the purchase of complete Thanksgiving meals for 18 local residents, while 28 children received Christmas gifts. Parents were given $100 Ingles gift cards.

“We partnered with the Owen School District to identify families in our community who needed support,” Parker said. “It’s an important part of what we do, because it really underscores our commitment to serving our citizens.”

Sponsors and players can sign up for the tournament at birdease.com/bmpdgolf.

“Everybody had a great time last year,” Parker said. “But, the community’s involvement is what made it truly special.”