2026 · Event Recap
Second Annual
Charity Golf Outing
October 4–5, 2026
Gaston Country Club · Gastonia, NC
Honoring Giovanni "Gio" Emil Zappitelli
Thank you to our sponsors, players, and guests for a memorable 2026 outing.
Relive the 2026 Outing
Our 2026 event film is in production
Check back soon for the full recap.
Meet Gio.
Giovanni "Gio" Emil Zappitelli was a bright, joyful boy with a wide-open heart — curious about the world, generous with the people he loved.
The GIO Foundation was founded by his family to honor his memory and carry forward what he embodied. Every program, every scholarship, every kid we reach — built to keep his spirit alive.
GiO — Go Inspire Others
The name behind the mission
A Note from Our Executive Director
Thank you for making the 2026 GIO Foundation Charity Golf Outing a weekend we will never forget.
This year's outing brought together partners who believe the next generation deserves every opportunity to grow, lead, and give back. Two days of championship-caliber golf, premier hospitality, and shared purpose — made possible by the sponsors, players, guests, and volunteers who showed up for the cause.
Every dollar raised fuels our three programs: GIO University leadership curriculum, scholarships and camps for youth, and year-round community drives. Because of you, that work continues well beyond October.
— Obie Batista, Executive Director
About the Foundation
The GIO Foundation (Go Inspire Others) was founded to honor a legacy of generosity by investing in young people through education, leadership, and community.
Our Mission in Action
Three programs powered by partners like you.
Education & Leadership
GIO University delivers career readiness, mentorship, and leadership programming to students seeking a path forward.
Learn more
Scholarships & Camps
Direct-to-student scholarships and immersive camps — including future legacy programming in Gio's name.
Learn more
Community Drives
Year-round drives — school supplies, toys, and essentials — delivered through partners to families who need them.
Learn moreThank You to Our 2026 Sponsors
This outing would not be possible without your generosity and support.
Lead Supporters
Presenting SponsorJoe Hollywood
Premier SponsorLucky Dealz
Premier SponsorKyle Kuzma Family FoundationOfficial Sponsors
HGP Intelligent Energy
PreReal — Prendamano Real Estate
Mark Wahlberg Youth FoundationFoursome Sponsors
HVAC Services Corporation
Logistical Warehouse
City Church
Advance Gaston
Haggle Auctions
Red Rock Development
Zapps Wholesale
CH RobinsonHole Activations
Pretzelized
Overtown Youth Center — Miami
Local Warrior
Goodbye InventoryWelcome Party Table Sponsors
Moses Jewelry NYC
Jackpot PalletsEvent Supporters
Project Full Out
Truist
Viking Mergers & Acquisitions
McAdenville Woman's Club
Carolinas Biofeedback Clinic2026 at a Glance
October 4–5, 2026 · Gastonia, NC
Over two days at Gaston Country Club, business leaders, athletes, and Foundation champions came together for a gala evening, silent and live auction, casino night, and a full day of championship golf, all in Gio's honor.
Days
Holes
Guests
Moments from the Weekend
Continue the Mission.
Thank you for helping us honor Gio's legacy.
Obie Batista · Executive Director
obie@thegiofoundation.orgthegiofoundation.orgThe GIO Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity · EIN 33-2229352 · Contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law
Thank You