For more than three decades, hundreds of golfers have come together each fall for a day of golf with a much bigger purpose: supporting Mississippi’s only children’s hospital.
The 33rd Annual Friends of Children’s Hospital Golf Tournament presented by Comcast will be held Monday, October 26, 2026, simultaneously at Annandale Golf Club, Canebrake Country Club, Country Club of Jackson, and Reunion Golf and Country Club.
Established in 1993 by Dr. Bob Abney, the tournament has raised more than $3.6 million to support Child Life Services at Children’s of Mississippi.
The Child Life program helps children and families cope with the stress and uncertainty of a hospital stay. Through therapeutic play, age-appropriate activities and emotional support, specialists helps children better understand their care and navigate unfamiliar or difficult experiences. Proceeds from the tournament help Friends of Children’s Hospital fund Child Life team members each year, while also supporting programs and activities that bring comfort, joy and a sense of normalcy to children in the hospital.
“Child Life is such an important part of the experience for children and families at the hospital,” said Caitlin Foreman, executive director of Friends of Children’s Hospital. “Child Life specialists help children understand what is happening, cope with things that can be scary or overwhelming, and still have opportunities to simply be kids.”
Children’s of Mississippi is the state’s only hospital devoted solely to pediatric care, providing specialized treatment for infants, children, and teens. Its pediatric locations extend across Mississippi, helping families access specialized care in communities throughout the state.
The golf tournament has become one of Friends of Children’s Hospital’s longest-running fundraising traditions. Approximately 400 golfers participate across the four courses, with businesses, individuals, and families returning year after year to support the event.
William VanDevender, Jr. and Sidney Allen, Jr. are serving as tournament co-chairs. The tournament committee also includes Dr. Bob Abney, John Blakeney, Michael Boerner, Byron Burkhalter, Ben Edwards, Aimee Garner, Blair Gunter, Chris Hester, Mark Hosemann, Sanford Moore and Maggie West. The committee works throughout the year to build sponsor support, recruit teams, and help coordinate the four-course event. Comcast is serving as presenting sponsor for the third consecutive year.
The continued support of tournament participants, sponsors, and volunteers helps sustain Child Life Services and its work with patients and families throughout Children’s of Mississippi.
Sponsorship opportunities range from $2,500 to $20,000, and five-person teams are available for $1,500. To learn more about the 33rd Annual Friends of Children’s Hospital Golf Tournament, visit www.friendsofch.org/golftournament or call 601-936-0034.
