Rob Cupit Memorial Golf Tournament donates $8,680 to support Mental Health

Inaugural tournament honours local man’s legacy and will make Mental Health care better for the community.

Belleville General Hospital Foundation has received a meaningful donation to support Mental Health Services at Quinte Health, Belleville General Hospital from the Rob Cupit Memorial Golf Tournament, made in loving memory of Brighton man, Rob Cupit.

In a heartfelt tribute to the late Rob Cupit, a beloved friend and community member, Ian Arsenault served as the tournament director for the inaugural Rob Cupit Memorial Golf Tournament. This event, which brought together Rob’s friends, family, and supporters from across the region, aimed to raise both awareness and funds for mental health initiatives.

Rob, known for his vibrant spirit and kind heart, left a lasting impact on those around him. His untimely passing deeply affected the community, highlighting the importance of mental health support and resources. In his memory, the tournament not only celebrated Rob’s life but also spotlighted the critical need for accessible mental health care.

The event, held at Timber Ridge Golf Course in Brighton on September 23, 2023, saw enthusiastic participation, with players of all skill levels joining to support this vital cause. Through the collective effort of the participants and corporate sponsors, the tournament raised $8,680, which was donated in memory of Rob to the Belleville General Hospital Foundation to support the Mental Health Services at BGH to help enhance their programs, training and services.

“This tournament is not meant as a competition but rather a symbol of our commitment to remember Rob and the battle many face with mental health issues. We were blown away by the community’s support through participation and sponsorship and hope that this contribution will make a significant difference. We are committed to making this an annual event and are already planning for next year’s event,” Arsenault shared.

The success of the tournament is a testament to the power of community solidarity in addressing mental health challenges. It stands as a beacon of hope and a reminder that together, we can make a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health issues, honouring Rob’s memory in the most meaningful way possible.

Erin Hewitson, Major Gifts Officer, BGHF, was on hand to receive the donation, sharing: “We’re incredibly grateful for this heartfelt contribution from Rob’s friends and family. What a powerful way to honour Rob’s legacy and raise awareness and support for mental health issues and supporting those in need in our community.”

Quinte Health, Belleville General Hospital provides a continuum of mental health care services from crisis intervention, acute inpatient admissions, day hospital community and outpatient support. This regional service supports anyone living from Brighton to Napanee, Picton to Bancroft. Quinte Health is also a proud partner in the new 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline launched across Canada in 2023. 9-8-8 responders provide immediate, confidential, and non-judgmental help to people who are thinking about suicide or worried about someone they know.

For information about the 2024 Rob Cupit Memorial Golf Tournament, including registration and sponsorship opportunities, please contact: Ian Arsenault – robcupitmemorialgolf@gmail.com, 613-915-8895.

Photo L-R: Jamie Lawrence, Brendan Richardson, Ian Arsenault (Tournament Director), Scott Goody, Mike Cupit (Rob’s brother), Sarah Steinberg, Patient Care Lead, Mental Health Services, BGH; Marilyn Cupit (Rob’s mother).