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9th Annual Rafi's Amigos Golf Outing: A Heartfelt Initiative to Inspire Future Aviation Leaders

The highly anticipated 9th Annual Rafi's Amigos Golf Outing is set to take place on June 5, 2026, at the scenic Beavercreek Golf Club in Greene County, Ohio. This event brings together community leaders, businesses, and golf enthusiasts not just for a day of friendly competition, but also for a noble cause — supporting local students in their pursuit of careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) through the lens of aviation.

Rafi Rodriguez, a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel and community advocate, will host this annual gathering, which has become a cherished tradition. Over the years, the outing has played a crucial role in raising funds that allow deserving high school students to participate in an exclusive one-day session at Air Camp. This extraordinary experience allows students to engage in hands-on STEM learning modules, which often includes flying with an instructor pilot for the first time.

The outpouring of support for this initiative has been evident, as local sponsors like White Allen European Auto Group and White Allen Chevrolet have been instrumental in ensuring its success. Scott Da Costa Gomez, the general manager of White Allen European Auto Group, expressed the company's commitment to the community by affirming, “Rafi's Amigos provides a great way to help area JROTC cadets explore their potential through Air Camp.”

This year, the golf outing aims to continue its legacy by allowing more Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) cadets from participating high schools — including Fairborn, Beavercreek, and Bellbrook — to immerse themselves in aviation activities and discover pathways to future careers. The initiative often serves as a pivotal moment for many students, such as Annaleese Theodor, a Bellbrook High School graduate. Having gained invaluable experience at Air Camp, Annaleese is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree in helicopter aviation at Sinclair Community College. She credits the outing for providing opportunities that her family could not have otherwise afforded, saying, “My experience at Air Camp inspired me to learn more about becoming a pilot—specifically, I wanted to be a helicopter pilot.”

The positive impact of the Rafi's Amigos Golf Outing extends far beyond just raising funds. In its previous years, proceeds from the event have enabled dozens of students to attend Air Camp at no additional cost to their families. This has not only given them a taste of aviation careers but also instilled confidence that motivates them to pursue their aspirations. Rafi Rodriguez himself shares the vision behind the outing: “Give young people a chance to see what's possible.”

Participants and sponsors looking to contribute to this year’s event still have opportunities available, including various sponsorship packages and volunteers to help with logistics. The community spirit shown through this golf outing serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing future generations, making it more than just a day on the golf course.

As the event gears up for another promising year, the organizers emphasize their commitment to creating pathways for young minds, enabling them to discover their passions that might turn into lifelong careers. For those interested in sponsoring, registering to play or volunteering, more details can be found at askrafi.com/events or by contacting the public affairs agency and event sponsor, GLD Communications, at 937-675-6169.

This initiative reflects a blend of recreation and philanthropy, with each swing on the green contributing to shaping tomorrow's leaders in STEM and aviation. Join us on this exciting journey!