Platinum Equity, Celebrities Continue Support of JRLA Golf Outing: ‘An Amazing Cause’

May 12, 2025

DETROIT - The Platinum Equity-sponsored Jalen Rose Celebrity Golf Classic serves as an annual fundraiser to support the tuition-free, public charter school in northwest Detroit.

It's also a chance for a fun time, according to Emmy Award-winning journalist Jemele Hill, who participated for the first time last August.

"It was just a family atmosphere," said Hill, who took up golf only three years ago. "There was some competitive golf happening and for those of us just beginning, we were just trying not to embarrass ourselves."

"I've had a little more time to practice this year and so I'm looking forward to whatever team I'm assigned to, and the goal this year is to get on that leaderboard while supporting JRLA's mission."

For the 12^th straight year, the firm and CEO Tom Gores will serve as presenting sponsors for the event which has grown to become the school's top fundraiser. The golf outing will be held May 19 at the Detroit Golf Club. The event will feature a $5,000 putting challenge and a $1 million Par 3 challenge (50/50 split with JRLA), with top groups receiving awards during the closing ceremony. Additionally, the kickoff party will be held at the MGM Grand Detroit the night prior on May 18.

Celebrities like Hill will join Platinum Equity and Detroit Pistons executives for a round of golf to support the school, which was founded by former NBA star Jalen Rose in 2011. Previous celebrities who have supported the event include Rose's Fab Five teammate at Michigan, Chris Webber, former NBA standout Jerry Stackhouse, comedian HaHa Davis, and others.

"The outing helps to extend the legacy of an institution that I'm sure when Jalen started it, a lot of people had their doubts, so the golf tournament is an affirmation of what's possible," Hill said.

Platinum Equity's support goes beyond the golf course. The firm is sponsoring a mentorship program with the school for the fourth year in a row. Platinum Equity kicks off the program with firm employees traveling to Detroit for mentorship events, and this year, the firm awarded $50,000 in scholarships for mentees.

The school reports a 97% high graduation rate with 100% college and postsecondary acceptance and is a leader among open enrollment high schools in Detroit for college entrance.

"The best part is knowing you're doing something for an amazing cause," Hill said.

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