CyberVoices

41 Years of Giving: The Canadian Computer Charity Golf Classic Continues to Drive Impact for Easter Seals Ontario

While innovation and invention might come to mind, it was tradition and philanthropic leadership that brought more than 150 technology-sector professionals to Lionhead Golf Club in Brampton on September 4 for the 41st annual Canadian Computer Charity Golf Classic.

This premier charity golf tournament has been a cornerstone event in the Canadian technology industry for over four decades. This year, it brought together an impressive group of technology sector companies, including key sponsors TD SYNNEX, AMD, Eaton Power, HP Canada, HPE, D&H Canada, ViewSonic, Ingram Micro, and Targus Canada. The tournament’s planning committee also includes some influential and respected leaders in the Canadian technology sector, including Brad Hutchinson, Deidre Deacon, Gioveanni Stea, Kelly Hodgins, Mike Murphy, and Ray Christophersen. After 14 years as a long-term member of the committee Kelly Hodgins, Manager, IB Installed Base Execution with HPE, is stepping down from the committee to make way for new people and new ideas. Hodgins shared this about her 14 years of involvement with the event:  “This tournament has been close to my heart and is such a worthy cause, I have been honoured to be part of this organization.  I feel like I have benefited more from it than I ever expected.  The kids are amazing and inspiring. Every dollar donated goes towards programs that enhance their lives to allow kids to be kids”.

Proceeds from the tournament are donated to Easter Seals Ontario, a Canadian charitable organization dedicated to improving the lives of young people with physical disabilities. These contributions support a range of programs that provide access to essential mobility and accessibility devices, opportunities to develop independence and leadership skills, accessible camping programs, and resources to pursue post-secondary education. At this year’s tournament, organizers and participants celebrated a remarkable fundraising milestone — surpassing $7 million in total funds raised since the tournament’s inception.

Casey MacKay, a 28-year-old video editor who lives with cerebral palsy, had the opportunity to address the crowd at this year’s event. MacKay was a beneficiary of Easter Seals Ontario’s programs throughout much of his childhood, and he spoke about how the support shaped his life: “You know that feeling when you realize a dream is no longer a dream? ... With the experiences and skills I’ve gained through Easter Seals, I am now able to live on my own in an assisted living apartment. This is something many people never thought would be possible ... Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.”

Supporting young people like MacKay is not only about meeting immediate needs but also about nurturing the innovators, leaders, and changemakers of tomorrow — a mission the technology sector is uniquely positioned to champion. The philanthropic leadership demonstrated by Hodgins, her fellow committee members, and the participating companies sets a powerful example for the Canadian technology industry.

As we look ahead to 2026, we are calling on the Canadian technology industry to come together once again in partnership with Easter Seals Ontario. By sponsoring, volunteering, or participating in the Canadian Computer Charity Golf Classic, you’ll not only be part of a proud tradition but also help empower the next generation of leaders. For more information about the event, sponsorship opportunities, or how you can get involved, please visit computergolf.ca. Let’s build on more than 40 years of impact and ensure that the 42nd annual event is the strongest demonstration yet of how this industry gives back.