TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (January 20, 2026) – The Lomas Brown Jr. Foundation and the
National Cherry Festival are teaming up for Driving for Dreams, a unique fundraising event
at Topgolf Auburn Hills that blends sports, entertainment, and philanthropy – all in support
of Michigan youth.
Taking place on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, Driving for Dreams will raise funds for two
impactful causes: youth education and mentorship programs through the Lomas Brown
Jr. Foundation and the National Cherry Queen Scholarship Program, which supports
young women pursuing higher education while serving as an ambassador for Michigan
cherry industry and community leadership.
The cost to participate is $125 per individual player or $400 per foursome. Attendees will
compete for top prizes and enjoy a silent auction and additional games throughout the
evening.
Hosted by former Detroit Lions great Lomas Brown Jr. and National Cherry Queen
Ainslee Hewitt, the event invites corporate teams, community leaders, and supporters to
enjoy a fun and competitive Topgolf experience while giving back. Guests will enjoy golf
games, networking, food and beverages, and special appearances, all while contributing to
scholarships and youth-focused initiatives across the state.
“This event is about more than golf it’s about creating opportunities,” said
Lomas Brown Jr., founder of the Lomas Brown Jr. Foundation. “By coming together at
Topgolf, we’re raising critical funds that help young people believe in themselves, pursue
education, and build a stronger future.”
Proceeds from Driving for Dreams will directly benefit the Lomas Brown Jr. Foundation,
which empowers youth through fitness, education, technology, and life skills, as well as the
National Cherry Queen Scholarship, a long-standing program supporting young women
through college scholarships and leadership opportunities while serving as a
representative of the National Cherry Festival and the cherry industry.
“The National Cherry Festival is proud to partner on an event that extends our mission
beyond Traverse City,” said Kat Paye, Executive Director of the National Cherry Festival.
“The National Cherry Queen Scholarship has helped shape confident, community-minded
leaders for generations, and this fundraiser ensures that tradition continues.”
Event Details
• What: Driving for Dreams Fundraiser
• When: Wednesday, February 11, 2026, 6-9PM
• Where: Topgolf Auburn Hills (500 Great Lakes Crossing Dr; Auburn Hills, MI)
• Benefiting: Lomas Brown Jr. Foundation & National Cherry Queen Scholarship
• Register: www.cherryfestival.org
About the Lomas Brown Jr. Foundation
The Lomas Brown Jr. Foundation empowers youth through education, mentorship, and
leadership development. Founded by Detroit Lions legend Lomas Brown Jr., the Foundation
is committed to helping young people reach their full potential.
About the National Cherry Festival & National Cherry Queen Scholarship
The National Cherry Festival celebrates and promotes cherries, community involvement
and the Grand Traverse Region each summer in Traverse City, Michigan. the National
Cherry Queen Scholarship, which provides college scholarships and leadership
development opportunities.