Make-A-Wish Ricky Peden Memorial Golf Tournament helps grant wishes for local kids

HARRISON COUNTY, Miss. (WXXV)- Golfers hit the links for the 19th annual Make-A-Wish Ricky Peden Memorial Tournament, raising money for local children facing critical illnesses.

The clubs were swinging as 168 players hit the links at Beau Rivage’s Fallen Oak Golf Club for the 19th annual Make-A-Wish Ricky Peden Memorial Golf Tournament. Fallen Oak Representative Maury Hodgens said, “In 2024, we donated $50,000 from this golfing event and up to $68,000 last year. It’s great to help all the kids on the Coast and across the state of Mississippi because you know when you’re giving back to the kids and see everything, they’re going through a hard time and we’re proud to help.”

Across Mississippi, more than 140 children with critical illnesses are waiting for their wishes to come true, including 34 right here on the Coast. Make-A-Wish Mississippi Director Shellie Moses said, “Anytime you are able to see a child receive their wish, it is impactful! Not only on you, but on the family and everybody that’s involved. Part of Make-A-Wish allows the community to get involved. You can see it, fill it, touch it, you can wrap your arms around it and feel the love of it.”

Alumni Wish kids also joined players on Hole 18 before the event wrapped up with an awards ceremony, celebrating the golfers who showed up for a great cause.