The fifth annual Edward S. Thomas Memorial Golf Outing, scheduled for Aug. 24 at Plum Hollow Country Club in Southfield, is dedicated this year to the first responders and front-line workers who have put their lives on the line in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The outing will provide a day of fun and relaxation for the Detroit Fire Department, emergency medical services, nurses and physicians from Detroit hospitals in recognition of their unwavering service during this difficult time. 

Medical Center Emergency Services and the Wayne State University School of Medicine Department of Emergency Medicine, sponsors and co-hosts of the event, are seeking sponsorships to provide this day for first responders. A sponsorship will include a day of golf, lunch, cocktails and a strolling dinner. All are welcome to come play with these heroes who don't wear capes. You can sponsor first responders for the event here.

The outing celebrates the legacy of Edward S. Thomas, who was a friend, mentor, colleague and inspiration to the many who worked with him. Thomas was a member of the School of Medicine's Board of Visitors and served as president of Detroit Receiving Hospital following years of dedication and service at the Detroit Medical Center. He was a leader in the Detroit metropolitan community and involved in a leadership capacity with many nonprofit organizations, including Children's Home of Detroit, the Michigan Hospital Association and multiple governor task forces.

The event also benefits the Edward S. Thomas Section of Community and Public Health in the Wayne State University School of Medicine’s Department of Emergency Medicine. The section, along with the WSU Department of Emergency Medicine, the Wayne State University Physician Group, ACCESS and Ford Motor Co., stepped up during the pandemic by providing mobile COVID-19 testing in the community. As of July 1, mobile units have tested more than 10,000 individuals, including first responders, health care workers, police officers and firefighters. In addition to COVID-19 testing at the mobile sites, the group provides HIV testing and blood pressure screenings to broaden its community outreach. Proceeds from the outing will continue this work in the community.

For more information, contact Cari Williamson at cwilliamson@med.wayne.edu.