Swingin’ For a Reason: 37th Annual Bolo Bash Golf Tournament to Improve Access to Behavioral Health Services

Dust off those drivers — the 37th annual Bolo Bash Golf Tournament set for Sept. 14 and 15 at Chenal Country Club in Little Rock invites golf enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite pastime while raising money for a good cause.

Presented by Simmons Bank, the tournament brings together golfers from across the state and beyond for two days of fun, all centered around a single, powerful purpose: raising funds for a critical area of care at Baptist Health. This year, proceeds directly support Baptist Health Behavioral Health Services.

“Behavioral healthcare needs in Arkansas are at an all-time high, yet access remains a major hurdle — especially for rural, low-income or uninsured individuals,” said Janet K. Marshall, chief development officer at Baptist Health Foundation. “By strengthening local behavioral health resources, we can treat patients holistically, reduce emergency department overcrowding and offer timely intervention.”

The funds will be used to expand access to care across Arkansas by funding essential therapy and medication for uninsured patients, expanding telehealth capabilities in rural communities, providing suicide prevention education, upgrading inpatient care equipment, and providing post-discharge transportation for vulnerable patients, said Bolo Bash Golf Committee co-chair Heath Harper.

One of the largest golf tournaments in Arkansas, with more than 500 golfers, the 2025 Bolo Bash Golf Tournament raised more than $572,000, far exceeding its goal of $500,000. The beneficiary was the Baptist Health College Little Rock Renovation Project.

The Bolo Bash Golf Tournament is a unique event in that it supports a different cause almost every year.

Co-chairs Heath Harper, left, and Marvin Childers

“The event raises funds for areas of greatest need within our healthcare system,” Marshall said. “By rotating our beneficiary, the tournament allows us to address different healthcare challenges in Arkansas, strengthening our ability to deliver comprehensive, compassionate and innovative care statewide.”

Committee co-chair Marvin Childers said golfers can expect a fun time on and off the course.

“The foundation provides a generous breakfast and lunch buffet, as well as after-play snacks,” he said. “Each participant receives shopping credit at the pop-up store, which is stocked with premium polos, shoes, golf balls and more. There are also fun on-course games and contests with top-notch prizes.”

“It is rare to find an event that combines a first-class golf experience on two beautiful courses with a life-changing purpose,” Marshall added. “Whether you are playing with colleagues, entertaining clients or competing with friends, every swing directly impacts someone in Arkansas receiving essential healthcare.”

Morning tee time is 7:30 a.m. both days, and afternoon tee time is 1:30 p.m. Marshall expressed gratitude to Heath and Marvin for serving as co-chairs of the event and to the whole volunteer committee.

“Volunteering for the Bolo Bash Golf Tournament requires a lot of time. We are grateful for our volunteers who help us, which include Baptist Health Foundation board members, Baptist Health employees and others from the community,” Marshall said. “We appreciate those who give of their time to secure sponsorships and who take time out of their busy day to ensure our golfers and sponsors have a great experience.”

Sponsorship opportunities and team registrations are currently available. To learn more or sign up, visit baptisthealthfoundation.org/events/bolo-bash-golf or call Lauren Day at 501-202-1513.