Joy is a powerful teacher—and at our Fall Classic at Topgolf, joy meets purpose to fuel real wins for kids in Benton County. We brought sponsors, board members, and community partners together in one lively space to raise funds, share stories, and spotlight the programs that turn club kids into confident leaders who carry their skills from the clubhouse to school, work, and beyond.
We kick off with our presenting sponsor, Mobil 1, on why we pivoted from a traditional golf tournament to Topgolf: connection. When everyone gathers in one place, introverts and golf pros alike, the energy changes. You hear how camaraderie turns into commitment and why the event now fills up in weeks. The conversation widens with leaders from Walmart who champion starting early, surrounding youth with mentors, and making learning joyful through hands-on programs like our Youth Unmuted podcast.
We go deeper with partners like Mondelez and Celebrate Arkansas, who share practical wisdom on authenticity, grit, and the life-changing power of being seen. You’ll hear about former Youth of the Year winners thriving, teens discovering their voice on a magazine cover, and the simple habit that compounds into growth: show up and improve a little every day. Board members reflect on two decades of impact, call the club a game changer for families, and outline what it will take to keep pace with regional growth—more sites, more mentors, and a community that keeps saying yes.
Amid playful golf questions and hype songs, a clear message stands out: belonging builds confidence, confidence shapes character, and character creates brighter futures. If you care about youth development, mentorship, robotics, sports, or simply building a stronger Benton County, you’ll find a reason to lean in.
If this moved you, subscribe to Youth Unmuted, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who believes in showing up for the next generation.
More About this Episode
More Than a Game: How the Fall Classic at Topgolf Builds Brighter Futures for Benton County’s Youth
Every thriving community begins with its youth. At the Boys and Girls Club of Benton County, our mission is to provide opportunities that empower kids to grow into confident, capable leaders. One of the most exciting ways we bring this mission to life is through our annual Fall Classic fundraiser, hosted at Topgolf and presented by Mobil 1. This event is not just about golf. It is about connection, community, and long-term impact.
Each year, the Fall Classic draws sponsors, corporate leaders, board members, and community supporters who come together for a cause that matters. This event has become a vibrant symbol of what is possible when people rally around a shared vision for youth success.
Transforming Tradition into Inclusivity
The Fall Classic was originally a traditional golf tournament, but in recent years it has taken on a new form. As Vernon Solis, North American Retail Account Manager for ExxonMobil and longtime board member, explained, the move to Topgolf was intentional. The goal was to create a more inclusive space for people who may not be golfers but still want to support the Club and connect with the community.
“We thought, what if we brought people together in a way that allowed for more interaction and fun?” Vernon said. “Topgolf makes it easy for anyone to join, regardless of skill level, and it has become an event people look forward to.”
Since making that change, the event has continued to grow. Bays now fill up within a week or two, showing just how enthusiastic our community has become about supporting this mission in a fresh and engaging way.
A Legacy of Support from Mobil 1
Mobil 1 has supported the Boys and Girls Club of Benton County for more than 25 years. Their role as presenting sponsor goes far beyond funding. It is a reflection of their long-term commitment to youth development. Vernon shared a powerful story about running into a former Youth of the Year winner while shopping. This young man had taken the skills he learned at the Club and was applying them at work while also attending school.
“That moment reminded me why we do this,” Vernon said. “The Club is shaping lives in real ways. These kids are becoming leaders.”
Mobil 1’s ongoing partnership represents what it means to invest in the future by supporting young people today.
Building Community Through Experience
One of the strongest themes that came through during this year’s Fall Classic was the sense of community. From new sponsors to long-time board members, nearly everyone used the same word when describing what makes this event special.
Community.
Topgolf creates an atmosphere where everyone can mingle and build relationships. Traditional golf tournaments often spread participants across 18 holes, making meaningful conversations more difficult. In contrast, this event brings everyone together in one space. People have the chance to meet, laugh, compete, and connect on a deeper level. Whether it is the CEO of a major company, a Club staff member, or a first-time volunteer, everyone is included in the experience.
Real Stories, Real Impact
Throughout the event, we had the opportunity to speak with sponsors, board members, and former staff who have experienced firsthand the impact the Club has on young lives.
Courtney Carlson, Senior Vice President of Private Brands at Walmart and a board member, emphasized the importance of surrounding youth with positive influences. “It starts early,” she said. “The leaders, coaches, and mentors who were part of my life shaped who I became. That is why I am passionate about youth development.”
Brittany Smith, Vice President of Merchandising for Toys at Walmart, shared her own childhood experience growing up with a local Boys and Girls Club. She spoke about how it was a staple in her family and how it shaped her values. Now she gives back by helping others access the same life-changing opportunities.
We also heard from Greg at Mondelez International, who shared why his company chooses to be involved. He highlighted the Club’s unique role in the community and its lasting impact. “This is more than an event,” he said. “It is a reflection of a mission that is changing lives.”
Making Space for the Next Generation
The Fall Classic is a celebration, but the work of the Boys and Girls Club is ongoing. From after-school programs and sports leagues to teen leadership initiatives like Keystone Club and Youth of the Year, the Club provides year-round support. These programs teach confidence, responsibility, and life skills that carry into adulthood.
Drew Collin, who has served on the board for over 20 years, described the Club as a “game changer” for families. He spoke about how a single parent working multiple jobs can rely on the Club as a safe and supportive space for their children. For him, the most exciting part of the future is preparing to serve even more families as Northwest Arkansas continues to grow.
The Club currently operates 13 sites and serves hundreds of children daily. As the population expands, the need for services grows with it. Board members and staff are actively planning how to meet that demand by expanding programs and strengthening community partnerships.
Encouraging Youth to Take the Mic
One of the most exciting recent developments is the launch of this very podcast. For our teens, the opportunity to produce and host a podcast is more than a technical skill. It is a chance to learn storytelling, build confidence, and express their voices. Several sponsors pointed out how innovative and empowering this opportunity is.
Ashley, our Director of Programs and co-host of the podcast, spoke about how valuable these moments are for Club members. “This is about giving kids a platform,” she said. “It helps them discover who they are and how they want to lead.”
When we meet kids where they are, whether through sports, robotics, or media, we open doors to discovery. We let them explore their passions and build their futures one experience at a time.
The Joy of Giving Back
The people who support the Fall Classic are not just attendees. They are part of a movement. From those who donate money to those who donate time, every contribution makes a difference.
Justin from Celebrate Arkansas reflected on his past work with the Club and now continues to support us through media sponsorship and storytelling. Each year, the Club’s Youth of the Year is featured on the magazine’s cover. That moment of seeing themselves published gives our youth a powerful sense of recognition and accomplishment.
He described the program as life-changing, not just for the kids, but for everyone involved.
One Word That Says It All
When we asked people to describe the Fall Classic in one word, the answers reflected everything we aim to create. Words like community, joy, inspiration, and impact came up again and again.
This is what the Boys and Girls Club stands for.
It is not about swinging a golf club or winning a contest. It is about building relationships, creating memories, and investing in the people who will lead us into the future.
We are grateful for every sponsor, donor, volunteer, and community member who continues to support this work. Together, we are not only changing the lives of individual kids. We are transforming families, neighborhoods, and the future of Benton County.
So whether you are a business leader, a former Club kid, a parent, or someone looking for a way to give back, know that you have a place in this story.
Because at the Boys and Girls Club of Benton County, every moment counts. And every child matters.