The organizers of the Lobby Muddy Fest present a donation to Newport Mental Health at the Rock the Beach Gala in 2024; Dave Mitchell, Tyler Brenadyn, James Iacoi, Billy Palmer, Nick Malloy, and James Miller. (Andrea Hansen photo) Credit: Andrea Hansen

Newport Mental Health has announced its fundraising events for 2025, each offering unique opportunities to make a lasting impact while enjoying unforgettable experiences.

The events raise vital funds to support the comprehensive behavioral health and substance use services Newport Mental Health provides throughout Newport County.

Drive for Mental Health Charity Golf Tournament

June 23, 2025 | 1:00pm Shotgun Start | The Aquidneck Club

The “Drive for Mental Health” Charity Golf Tournament returns to The Aquidneck Club on Monday, June 23rd. This is a rare chance to play the private, championship course designed by the renowned Donald Steel. Whether you’re an avid golfer or a local business owner looking to give back, this event promises an unforgettable day of golf and camaraderie.

Horan Building Company returns as Presenting Sponsor and invites area businesses and golf enthusiasts to join them in a day of support for Newport Mental Health. Farrar & Associates joins as the new Scramble Division Sponsor, which provides the opportunity for all golfers to enjoy this spectacular course. After a great day of golf, which includes longest drive, closest to the pin, longest putt, hole-in-one, and a new pre-round putting contest, golfers will enjoy a relaxing cocktail hour followed by first-class dining in the stunning waterfront clubhouse.

Foursomes, additional dinner reservations, and tee sign sponsorship opportunities can be found on the event website: https://drive-for-mental-health.perfectgolfevent.com/

Rock the Beach Charity Fundraising Gala

September 25, 2025 | 5:30 – 10pm| Newport Beach House

Get ready to “Rock the Beach” at Newport Mental Health’s signature fundraising event, returning this year on Thursday, September 25th with an exciting new twist. Presented by Lobby Muddy Fest, this lively and unforgettable gala takes place at the breathtaking Newport Beach House, located on the shores of Newport’s iconic First Beach.

This sell-out event is the perfect fusion of formal elegance and seaside celebration, featuring live music, dancing, delicious dining, and the chance to connect with other community leaders who are passionate about making a difference. The highlight of the evening is the live auction, expertly hosted by professional auctioneer Lucas Hunt, where you’ll bid on unique experiences and items, all while supporting an essential cause.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be a part of a celebration that combines community, impact, and fun. Tickets and sponsorship information are available online at: https://www.newportmentalhealth.org/support-us/fundraising-events/rock-the-beach/

Your Participation Makes a Difference

All funds raised through these events directly support Newport Mental Health’s Annual Fund, enabling the organization to provide essential mental health and substance use services to individuals across Newport County, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. Susan Piacenti, VP of Philanthropy for Newport Mental Health explains it this way, “Your support truly makes a difference. Without Annual Fund donations, those who need our help might be at the mercy of their insurance status or having to choose between putting food on the table or paying for life-enhancing treatment. Your donation takes that stressor away by ensuring that those who need behavioral health care can access it when they need it, not when they can afford it.” 

By sponsoring, attending, and supporting these fundraising events, you’ll be making a meaningful difference in the lives of the nearly 2,400 clients we serve each year who need our help. Join us in making an impact — together, we are creating a stronger, healthier Newport County.

Newport Mental Health is a 501(c)3 charitable nonprofit and a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) providing mental health and substance use treatment in Newport County. Programs and services are offered for children and adults; immediate access to care is available by calling 401-846-1213. More info and donations accepted at newportmentalhealth.org

Ryan Belmore is the owner and publisher of What's Up Newp. He took over the publication in 2012 and has grown it into a three-time Rhode Island Monthly Best Local News Blog (2018, 2019, 2020). He was named LION Publishers Member of the Year in 2020 and received the Dominique Award from the Arts & Cultural Society of Newport County the same year. He has been awarded grants for investigative and community journalism, and continues to coach and mentor new local news publications nationwide. Ryan...