A heartfelt tribute in loving memory of Brighton man Rob Cupit will also make mental health care better for the community, says the Belleville General Hospital Foundation (BGHF).
The Rob Cupit Memorial Golf Tournament, an inaugural tournament held last year, raised $8,680 in support of mental health services at Quinte Health while honouring Cupit’s legacy, the foundation announced Feb. 6, 2024.
In what was described as “a heartfelt tribute” to the late Cupit, a beloved friend and community member, Ian Arsenault served as director for the inaugural tournament. The event brought together Cupit’s friends, family, and supporters from across the region, who helped raise both awareness and funds for mental health initiatives, said the foundation, in a recent release.
“Rob, (who was) known for his vibrant spirit and kind heart, left a lasting impact on those around him,” said the foundation. “His untimely passing deeply affected the community, highlighting the importance of mental health support and resources.”
The tournament aimed to not only celebrate Cupit’s life, but also underscored the critical need for accessible mental health care, it was explained.
The event was held at the Timber Ridge Golf Course in Brighton back in September 2023. Players of all skills joined in.
Through the collective effort of participants and sponsors, the tournament raised $8,680, which was donated in memory of Cupit to the Belleville General Hospital Foundation and to support mental health services at BGH. Monies will help enhance 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,” said Arsenault. “We were blown away by the community’s support through participation and sponsorship, and hope that this contribution will make a significant difference.
Arsenault said organizers are committed to making this an annual event and are planning for the next edition.
Erin Hewitson, a major gifts officer with BGHF, said the foundation is grateful.
“We’re incredibly grateful for this heartfelt contribution from Rob’s friends and family,” said Hewitson. “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.”
Organizers and supporters called the success of the tournament a testament to the power of community solidarity in addressing mental health challenges – and a beacon of hope. The tournament should serve as a reminder that together communities can make a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health, while continuing to honour Cupit’s memory in the most meaningful way possible.
BGH provides a continuum of mental health-care services, including crisis intervention, acute inpatient admissions, day hospital community and outpatient supports. Through this regional service, support is available for residents, including those living from Brighton to Napanee, and Picton to Bancroft.
Quinte Health noted it is also a proud partner in the new 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline launched across Canada in 2023. Through this, 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 more information on the 2024 Rob Cupit Memorial Golf Tournament, including registration and sponsorship opportunities, contact Arsenault at robcupitmemorialgolf@gmail.com or 613-915-8895.
To learn more about BGHF, visit bghf.ca.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
