Triston Behrend, a freshman at Notre Dame Academy, created a golf outing to donate money to St. Jude Children’s Hospital last year.

Behrend described himself as “compassionate, kind and empathetic.”

“I feel like it is important to give back to the community, and to help others,” he said.

Behrend started this golf outing, T-time for the Children of St. Jude,  two years ago as an eighth-grader for an IB community project.

“I am fourteen years old, love golf and want to do my part in the fight against childhood cancer. This year, I would like to continue to make a difference,” said Behrend.

This special golf outing takes place in a small town, Powers, Michigan, at the “Wild Pines” golf course.

The outing consists of a putting competition and a golf scramble. Food and drink are also served.

“Since it was such a success in its first year, I decided to do it again this year,” he said.

In Behrend’s free time, outside of school, he golfs, reads and enjoys playing video games.

Behrend raised a total of $7,500 between the two years and plans to continue the fundraiser in the future.

Bob LeCaptain, a golfer at the tournament, said, “Triston worked his butt off to make sure everything ran smoothly. He seemed very stressed and wanted to make sure everything was right.”

Behrend explained how this year people did not sign up until the last minute. This challenge added to the planning as he wasn’t sure the tournament would have enough people to golf. The tournament was successful and all the spots were filled.

He said, “My favorite part of the tournament is either being able to play in the tournament and seeing everyone enjoying themselves or mailing the check to St. Jude.”

LeCaptain said, “ It was so cool. An eighth-grade boy who wanted to make a difference. You do not see that much these days any more.”

Behrend started this tournament as a tribute to his grandma Pat who passed away last year.

“Although she did not love golf, she loved St. Jude so that is why I dedicate the tournament to her,” he said.