Since 1986, Friends Serving Friends (FSF) has been raising money for the Indian Lake community through an annual golf tournament. This year, they’ll celebrate their 40th when they return to Cherokee Hills Golf Course on Sunday, June 28, with the first tee time scheduled for 7 a.m.
Founded in 1983 by Mac Harris, Wilbur Mummey and Al Nichols, FSF was created to help people in need. That led to the golf outing, which, historically, sees 120 to 130 golfers signing up to play 18 holes for a good cause.
According to Jill Wurster, FSF secretary and daughter of the organization’s president, Ray Arthur, the money people pay into the tournament goes “100 percent back into funds to help the community.” To do so, their work and ministry is run strictly by volunteers.
“We couldn’t accomplish what we do without our volunteers and the sponsorship of local businesses,” Wurster added. “Our mission is simple. And our volunteers and sponsors help with that.”
Those who want to participate in the tournament can sign up in two- or four-person teams for a $35 each entry fee plus green fees. The entry fee includes a small lunch at the turn and a pork chop dinner when they’re done. Besides a first-place prize of $1,000, the tournament offers four additional payouts.
Two-person teams will blind draw for partners. While four people can sign up as a team together, they won’t be eligible for the prize money. However, they can win door prizes and enter the 50/50 drawing as well as qualify for raffle items.
Sponsors, of course, are always welcome. A tournament sponsorship of $100 puts your business name on advertising banners and on a sign at one of the course holes. For $25, your name will be on signs throughout the course. All sponsorships are tax deductible.
“This is a big one,” Wurster said regarding their 40th celebration. “We appreciate the players and Cherokee Hills for making it possible.”
Over the years, FSF’s efforts have been remarkably successful. Take 2025, for instance. The organization raised over $140,000 and used that to:
• Award over $8,000 in academic scholarships for Indian Lake students.
• Offer their annual, free community Christmas dinner to over 800 families.
• Adopt more than 100 families during the holiday season, which provides them with toys, warm meals and other essentials.
• Assist with area ministries like food banks, Coats for Kids, the outreach center and tornado relief.
To sign up, call Ray Arthur at (937) 935-5566 or contact Cherokee Hills Golf Course directly. You can find out more at the Friends Serving Friends Facebook page as well.
