In southwest Iowa, Sail On and Fly High continues to turn remembrance into action — creating meaningful opportunities for connection, education, and support surrounding mental health awareness. What began as a mission inspired by Sailor Lawrence has grown into a movement dedicated to ending stigma, expanding prevention education, and reminding individuals they are never alone.
This spring and summer, the organization invites the community to come together in two powerful ways — first through a free, family-friendly wellness celebration, and later through its largest annual fundraiser.
5th Annual Community Mental Health Celebration
The 5th Annual Community Mental Health Celebration will take place on May 28, 2026, at Bayliss Park from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM. This year’s theme, Your Mind Is A Masterpiece, highlights the powerful connection between artistic expression and mental health — reminding us that every mind carries creativity, value, and strength.
This free, family-friendly event invites the community to gather for an evening of connection and conversation. Attendees can enjoy interactive activities, hear from local voices during a panel discussion, explore resource booths, and participate in a Mental Health Walk to close the evening. As an added bonus, each attendee will receive $5 in Farmers Market Bucks to use during the event — supporting both personal wellness and local vendors.
Local organizations are invited to join The Compass Crew as participating vendors and share how they support mental health in our community. Vendor participation is free, creating an inclusive and welcoming space where resources are visible, accessible, and easy to explore.
More than a celebration, the evening serves as a reminder that mental health matters — and that every individual’s story is worth honoring.
5th Annual Memorial Golf Tournament
As summer unfolds, Sail On and Fly High’s largest fundraiser of the year takes center stage: the 5th Annual Memorial Golf Tournament on July 25, 2026, at Whispering Woods Golf Club.
This four-person scramble brings together community members, businesses, and supporters for a day of friendly competition and meaningful impact. Registration is $125 per player and includes breakfast, 18 holes with cart, on-course games, raffle opportunities, lunch, and a post-round auction. Teams are encouraged to register early, as space is limited.
An Early Bird Special runs through April 30th, giving teams the chance to secure their spot early before the tournament fills up. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged.
More than just a day on the course, the tournament plays a critical role in sustaining Sail On and Fly High’s year-round outreach, education efforts, and mental health programming. Every registration and sponsorship directly supports initiatives that expand awareness, reduce stigma, and strengthen prevention efforts throughout our community.
Local businesses are also invited to become sponsors. Sponsorship opportunities provide meaningful visibility while helping fund programs that reduce stigma, encourage conversation, and create lasting impact. Whether you gather a foursome, sponsor a hole, donate auction items, or attend the luncheon, participation helps move the mission forward. Sponsor and make an impact by emailing [email protected]
A Community Effort
Sail On and Fly High’s work is rooted in compassion, resilience, and connection. From free public events focused on awareness and education to fundraising efforts that sustain vital programming, each initiative reflects the power of community support.
As these upcoming events approach, there are many ways to get involved — attend, participate, sponsor, volunteer, or simply help spread the word. Together, those efforts create real and lasting impact.
Because when a community shows up for one another, everyone moves forward stronger.
