Special to IFN

Hosted by Mooresville’s On Tap Crafty Brews, Birdies & Brews is a fun-filled day of charitable fundraising alongside a round of golf.

Held at the Mooresville Golf Club on July 28, the second annual Birdies & Brews golf tournament raised $10,000 for Rainbow Kidz, a grief counseling program provided to children and their parents by Hospice & Palliative Care of Iredell County. Rainbow Kidz extends services, including individual and group counseling and summer camp, at no cost to the local families and schools that it serves. All services are funded by contributions from the community.

“In addition to my business, I work as a mentor with the Mooresville Graded School District, and I’ve witnessed firsthand the immense need for Rainbow Kidz,” said On Tap Owner Rick Blankenship. “These resources truly make a massive difference in a child’s grieving and healing process.”

Leigh Ann Darty, director of Rainbow Kidz, expressed her gratitude as the tournament’s 2025 recipient.

“The event brings the community together for a meaningful cause – supporting children and teens who are navigating the difficult grief journey … This tournament is more than just a game. It’s a way to make a lasting difference for the grieving youth in our community.”

On Tap raised $5,000 during its first charitable Birdies & Brews event in 2024.

“We couldn’t do this without our On Tappers and the support of their friends and this local community,” Blankenship said, recognizing the 2025 “Top Pour” title sponsor, Fresh & Ready Food Group. “We’re praying for beautiful weather, big fun and bigger donations, all for Rainbow Kidz.”

Located in downtown Mooresville, On Tap Crafty Brews has been serving the best in local craft brews since opening its doors in October 2017. Learn more at ontap.pub and @ontapnc.