C5 Golf Classic Raises $350,000 to Support Boston Youth Leadership
- Holly Wenger
- Sep 24
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 25
The 13th Annual Crossroads C5 Golf Classic was held on a beautiful September day at the Wianno Golf Club, bringing together supporters, alumni, and friends for a day of golf, celebration, and impact. The tournament raised nearly $350,000 to support Crossroads’ C5 Leaders Program, a five-year leadership journey for Boston-area teens.
Since the event’s founding in 2013, the Golf Classic has raised over $3 million to provide transformative opportunities for young leaders—helping them gain the confidence, skills, and persistence they need to thrive in school, lead in their communities, and succeed in life.
This year was particularly meaningful as longtime event Co-Chairs Steve Stewart and Tim Carroll were honored for their 13 years of leadership. Their vision and dedication have helped grow the tournament into one of Crossroads’ most beloved annual traditions.
Morning Kickoff: Setting the Stage for Impact
The day began with a warm welcome from Crossroads President Ned Parsons, who thanked participants for their support and highlighted the incredible work of the C5 Leaders program.
Steve Stewart followed by sharing the program’s mission and impact:
“Through C5, these students are building the confidence, skills, and persistence they need to thrive,” Steve said. “Your support today helps make all of that possible.”
Before golfers teed off, Tim Carroll announced that the tournament had already raised $300,000 through sponsorships and early gifts. With a final goal of $350,000, players were encouraged to bid in the silent auction and participate in the Beat the Pro Contest on the course to help fully fund opportunities for Boston-area youth.
Special recognition went to this year’s Medallion Sponsors, who contributed at the $25,000 level and above:
Brook & Whittle
Sharon & Rick Fownes
J.C. Kellogg Foundation
The Phalen Family
One generous anonymous donor
With gratitude shared, golf carts rolled out for a fun-filled afternoon on the greens.
Evening Reception: Stories That Inspire
As the sun set over the ocean, golfers and guests gathered for a celebratory reception overlooking the course. Ned reflected on a remarkable summer season, during which over 500 C5 Leaders engaged in experiences designed to challenge, inspire, and prepare them for the future:
Flints & Lanterns (8th & 9th grade): Leadership University and skill-building at Camp Mitton, plus hands-on career exploration
Hammers (10th grade): A life-changing wilderness Trek in Idaho’s Teton Mountains
Compasses (11th grade): Road to College Tour, and visiting campuses
Medallions (12th grade): A.C.T. Now Summit at UMass Dartmouth, focused on creating change in their communities and beyond
One of the evening’s most special moments came when C5 alum Jadier “Jay” Sanchez, Class of
2023, shared his Crossroads journey. Jadier spoke about his transformation from a shy 3rd grade camper to a leader now thriving as a junior at Boston College, where he serves as co-president of the Dominican Association and a mentor to younger students. He also returned to Crossroads this past summer as a Trek counselor, guiding teens through their own wilderness adventure.
“C5 showed me that leadership isn’t something you’re born with,” Jadier said. “It’s something that can be learned, nurtured, and shared. None of what I’ve achieved would have been possible without this community and the generosity of those who believe in our mission.”
His remarks punctuated how years of guidance, experiences, and support come together to make a lasting difference in the lives of C5 leaders.
Honoring Steve Stewart and Tim Carroll
The evening also served as a celebration of Steve Stewart and Tim Carroll, who have spiritedly led the tournament since its inception. Over 13 years, their dedication has brought together countless supporters and provided critical funding for youth leadership development.
Tim issued a final challenge to the crowd: to raise $25,000 more to fully fund five additional C5 Leaders. Guests enthusiastically stepped up, pledging support at every level—from $1,000 to $5,000 gifts—helping to nudge donations closer to the goal.
As part of the celebration, Mike Phalen announced that he and David McGrath will serve as the new co-chairs for next year’s tournament, continuing the legacy of community and generosity that Steve and Tim built.
Celebrating Winners, Supporters and a Community Driving Change
The night concluded with fun and excitement as contest and raffle winners were announced, including prizes for the top three tournament teams, as well as the silent auction's successful bidders—all to support the C5 Leaders program.
The C5 Golf Classic was a testament to the power of community. The generosity of sponsors, donors, and players will provide hundreds of Boston-area teens with access to impactful opportunities that change the trajectories of lives.
As Tim shared in his farewell remarks:
“This tournament has been a labor of love. Thank you for standing with us to ensure that young people have the chance to grow, explore, and lead—with unlimited potential and possibility.”
We are deeply grateful to this year’s golf committee, and everyone who made this year’s tournament a success.
Stay tuned for more about the date for next year’s 14th Annual Crossroads C5 Golf Classic!