Giving Back

Each fall, the Roby Family of Companies hosts its annual Pitchin' for Wishes Cornhole Tournament for Make-A-Wish Central & Western NC.

The tournament began in 2008 with a sketch on paper by Roby Family of Companies President and CEO, Trent Haston, and his wife, Ragan. It was inspired by a young Roby employee who was unexpectedly diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. After seeing his struggle, recovery and strength, the company was inspired to do something for the cause and community. By combining a love for cornhole with a love for NCAA basketball and March Madness, the tournament was born.

After a modest fundraising goal of $10,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society was exceeded three-fold with $30,000 raised, the company knew it had something special on its hands. An amazing group of subcontractors, business partners, clients, family and friends really stepped up and supported the cause more than they could have ever imagined.

Their generosity and commitment to the event has only grown over the years! In 2024, the Sweet 16th tourney welcomed over 70 sponsors and 140 teams and raised over $300,000 for Make-A-Wish Central & Western NC, which has been the sole beneficiary since 2012. With this money, the organization will be able to grant the wishes of 30 children with critical illnesses in our local community.

The tournament’s success is a testament to the power of community, teamwork, and the impact of coming together for a cause. It's incredible to see how a simple idea, born from a moment of personal inspiration, has evolved into such a successful event and cherished tradition for so many.

Pitchin' for Wishes returns to Freedom Park on Saturday, November 1st. To learn more about the event, sponsorship opportunities and other ways you can pitch in, visit https://pitchinforwishes.com/.