Michigan golf fundraiser surpasses $2.4 million for Parkinson’s support

Nine editions of a Michigan charity golf tournament raised more than $2.4 million for Parkinson’s support, helping turn a small foundation initiative into a free wellness center serving more than 1,000 members. The 10th Kirk Gibson Golf Classic brought 228 golfers together in Rochester Hills on August 17, with organizers still calculating the latest event’s proceeds.

Money from the annual outing has helped fund programs, services and the Kirk Gibson Center for Parkinson’s Wellness in Farmington Hills. Opened in 2025 as the first center of its kind in Michigan, it now offers more than 170 movement-based classes each week and recently added a 2,700-square-foot gymnasium.

The foundation was established after former Detroit Tigers player and manager Kirk Gibson was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2015. Its work emphasizes movement, practical support and connection for people living with the neurodegenerative condition. Member Harry Neuman, who has had Parkinson’s for 20 years, said the center has also brought him friendships after years when the disease often felt like a private struggle. His experience shows how sustained local fundraising can create not only exercise opportunities, but a community for families navigating a long-term illness.