Future Leaders Golf Outing

Students in the Entrepreneurship and Advanced Marketing program at Oakland Schools Technical Campus Northwest are preparing for the annual Future Leaders Golf Outing, a capstone project that gives students hands-on experience in planning, organizing, and hosting a large-scale community event.

The program is led by instructor Tom Neal, but his students manage all aspects of the outing, including sales, promotions, and event operations. The experience also introduces dozens of students to golf each year.

Over the past 25 years, students have run and hosted 23 charity events at Shepherd’s Hollow, raising nearly $500,000 for student-selected charities. Beneficiaries have included Clarkston SCAMP, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Scarlet’s Smile, Wigs 4 Kids, Wounded Warrior Project, Paws With a Cause, Alzheimer’s Association, Lighthouse North, OATS, The New Day Foundation, Lewy Body Dementia Association, Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation, PMG Awareness, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The project also has provided students with opportunities to connect with local businesses, community leaders, and alumni, often leading to mentorships and internships. Over the years, the event has drawn strong support from families, employers, and community members who praise the real-world learning experience.

This year’s outing is scheduled for Thursday, May 7, at Shepherd’s Hollow from 7:45 to 11:30 a.m., followed by a banquet lunch and silent auction from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Proceeds will support DECA and two student-selected charities to be announced.