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Mission for Marcus

Stomp • Out • Stigma

For Immediate Release

Think Local Grants $2,500 Seed Funding to
Mission for Marcus to Host a Virtual Golf Tournament Fundraiser
to Combat Addiction Stigma in Capital Region

Think+ Energy’s Philanthropic Platform Supports Community-Driven Initiative to Raise Awareness and Foster Mental Health Understanding

Delmar, NY – Mission for Marcus is thrilled to announce a $2,500 grant from Think Local, the charitable arm of Think Energy and the Think+ Network, to support the 2026 Mission for Marcus Memorial Indoor Golf Tournament. This meaningful contribution will empower the event to raise more funds to expand Mission for Marcus’s reach and deepen its impact on combating the stigma of substance use disorder and the underlying mental health disease in schools throughout Albany County.

The grant represents Think Local’s commitment to funding community-led initiatives that address critical social challenges. Think Local is a philanthropic platform that empowers Think+ Network Energy Advisors across thousands of U.S. communities to direct charitable resources toward causes that matter most to their neighborhoods.

Event Details:

“This grant from Think Local represents more than financial support—it’s validation that our community cares about addressing the opioid crisis and changing how we talk about mental health and addiction,” said Mark and Teresa Kaplan. “With Think Local’s partnership, we can reach more kids, hopefully save more lives, and honor Marcus’s memory in a meaningful way.”

The Mission for Marcus Memorial Golf Tournament honors the memory of Marcus Kaplan, a 2004 Bethlehem Central High School graduate and athlete who tragically lost his life to an accidental fentanyl overdose six years ago. Organized in cooperation with the Delmar Rotary Foundation, the tournament creates a platform for the community to unite around stigma reduction, opioid awareness, youth empowerment and education

“Think Local exists to empower our Energy Advisors to support the causes they’re passionate about in their own communities,” said Lauren Valdes, Director of Community Engagement for Think Local. “Mission for Marcus embodies that spirit—local leadership addressing a critical community need. We’re honored to support their efforts to create lasting change.”

Tournament Highlights:

  • The Virtual Tournament, featuring Trackman Simulators, allows for nine holes of golf on St. Andrews golf course with an estimated completion time of 2 hours. Tee times are scheduled for 2PM, 4PM and 6PM.
  • Raffle baskets
  • Tournament prizes
  • Networking opportunities with community leaders and advocates

Ways to Get Involved:

  • Play in the Tournament: Secure your foursome early (event sells out quickly), $600/foursome
  • Sponsor a Flag Tee: Advertise your business for $175
  • Donate Items: Gift certificates or items for raffles
  • Make a Monetary Contribution: Any amount helps offset event expenses
  • Become a Tournament Sponsor: Multiple sponsorship opportunities available

About Mission for Marcus

Mission for Marcus is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the opioid crisis and combating the stigma surrounding substance use disorder and mental health issues. Founded in memory of Marcus Kaplan, the organization works to empower youth and communities for positive change. For more information, visit missionformarcus.com.

Mission for Marcus Contact Information:

About Think Local

Think Local is a philanthropic platform by Think Energy and the Think+ Network that empowers a network of 13,500+ Energy Advisors across thousands of U.S. communities to fund local causes that matter to them. Through Community Cash earned from customer referrals, Energy Advisors support campaigns designed to create visible, meaningful change in their neighborhoods. Learn more at local.thinkenergy.plus.

Think Local Contact Information:

Media Contact: For interview requests, additional information, or event coverage opportunities, please contact:

Mission for Marcus Phone: 518-222-9988 Email: info@missionformarcus.com