45th Annual Via Christi Charity Classic Golf Tournament
Via Christi Charity Classic
Since the inception of the Charity Classic, adults and children alike have benefited from more than $5 million raised in support of Ascension Via Christi's programs and services. These beneficiaries continue to help patients in need, provide the latest healthcare technology and improve quality of life for those in our community.
In memory of Marian Girrens
This tournament is in memory Marian Girrens, the founder of the first Charity Classic in 1981. During her many years of fund raising efforts, she raised millions of dollars for countless ministries and programs of the hospital.
2026 Charity Classic Board
Dawn Wessels, Tournament Chair
- John Adams
- Dale Baalman
- Ron Baker
- Brie Boulanger
- Alex Breitenbach
- Paul Cleland, MD
- Travis Francis
- Mark Gagnon
- Austin George, MD
- Micah Hall, MD
- Kent Koehler
- Cary Korbe
- Brian Mies
- Stuart Peters
- Chris Rea
- Peter Salmeron
- Scott Soderstrom
- David Stucky
- Brett Walbridge
2026 Charity Classic Beneficiary
Ascension Via Christi's
Pediatric Hearing Aid Fund
This year’s Charity Classic beneficiary is the Ascension Via Christi Pediatric Hearing Aid Fund, which helps families access essential hearing services and devices. While early intervention is vital for a child's speech, language, and cognitive development, families face immense hurdles. Pediatric hearing aids represent a significant out-of-pocket financial burden for families, as they are an expense frequently excluded from private health insurance. Without financial support, children face severe delays in communication and learning.
Unresolved hearing difficulties significantly impact childhood speech development and academic performance, highlighting the critical need for early testing and intervention. By age 12, nearly 20% of children experience some degree of hearing loss. The Pediatric Hearing Aid Fund bridges this gap, ensuring local children can hear clearly and thrive.
Your participation in this year's event makes a meaningful difference, and a portion of your support will be considered a charitable donation. These funds directly empower local children to fully participate in everyday life, continuing our 45-year tradition of supporting families in our community.
Via charisti Foundation
For questions or more info, contact Via Christi Foundation at 316-274-2550 or email
philanthropy@viachristi.org
Tournament Information
Crestview Country Club
1000 N. 127th St. E.
Wichita, KS 67230
Friday, September 11, 2026
7:30am & 1:30pm Tee Times