The 2026 Season of Giving officially launched with The Cumberland County Habitat for Humanity’s 17th Annual Chili Open Golf Scramble at the beautiful Dorchester Golf Club. The tournament was presented by Habitat’s 2026 Community Partner, Zurich Homes; Beacon of Hope Sponsors: East TN Dodge, East TN Ford, and Dave Kirk Automotive; and Pillar of Hope Sponsors: Upper Cumberland Encapsulation and Miller Heating and Air Conditioning. Habitat extends sincere gratitude to the golfers, volunteers, and generous sponsors who made the Chili Open possible. A full list of sponsors is available in the official event program, and participants may scan the event QR code for additional details:
Proceeds from the Chili Open directly advance Habitat’s mission of offering a hand up — not a handout — and helping make measurable progress in addressing the housing challenges facing working families in our community. Cumberland County Habitat for Humanity operates as a nonprofit homebuilder, mortgage lender, and ReStore retailer, relying on strong local partnerships to serve vulnerable populations and low-income families in need of safe, affordable housing. Habitat is also excited to announce Hope’s Landing, the new neighborhood development, which will expand access to affordable homeownership opportunities for families in Cumberland County.
The new Putting Contest, sponsored by The Preserve at Fairfield Glade, added both challenge and excitement to the day, awarding fabulous prizes to participants. Golfers also enjoyed hats provided by the Chili Open’s Birdie Sponsor, Crossville Kitchen & Bath, which proved especially welcome under the bright sunshine on Tuesday’s course. Habitat extends special appreciation to the dedicated staff at Dorchester Golf Club, along with Cody King and Wes Harden of Fairfield Glade Community Club, and the leadership of Jeff Houston, whose outstanding coordination and commitment ensured a seamless and memorable event. Their partnership and professionalism continue to elevate the Chili Open year after year. Habitat Volunteers provided amazing chili, cornbread and brownies for everyone to enjoy.
WINNER | PRIZE | PRESENTED BY
Vince Richardson | Door Prize | Zurich Homes
Mary Vesper | Door Prize | Preserve at Fairfield Glade
Mary and Lars Vesper | Birdie Awards | Crossville Kitchen Sales
Leslie Letner & Sandie Baillie | Birdie Awards | Crossville Kitchen Sales
David Ticker | Guess the Golf Balls | Preserve at Fairfield Glade
Mary Vesper | Putting Contest | Preserve at Fairfield Glade
Stephan Peters and Michael Peters | 1st Place Front 9 | Zurich Homes
Sandie Baillie and Leslie Letner | 1st Place Male/Female | East TN Dodge, Ford, Dave Kirk
