DETROIT – Platinum Equity representatives recently joined celebrities, athletes and community leaders to support the 14th annual Jalen Rose Leadership Academy Celebrity Golf Classic, a fundraising event to support the public charter school bearing the name of the former NBA standout.

For the 11th straight year, Platinum Equity Founder and CEO Tom Gores and the firm were presenting sponsors for the event which has grown to become the school’s top fundraiser. Among the celebrities appearing were former NBA standout Chris Webber, journalist Jemele Hill and political commentator Roland Martin.

For Rose, the event always represents a chance to reflect on how the school, which opened in 2011, has continued its mission of educating Detroit youth.

“We just completed our thirteenth school year and graduated our tenth class of seniors – huge milestones,” Rose said in a news release. “In addition, we get zero state funding for our facility, which is why this event is so paramount for our success.

“I truly appreciate all those who supported our efforts whether in person or from afar.”

The event featured a $5,000 Putting Challenge and a One-Million Dollar Shot Challenge, with top finishing groups receiving awards during the closing ceremony. The 2024 JRLA Leadership Award was presented to Teach for America Detroit and Teach Michigan for their commitments to investing in high-impact educators working in under-resourced schools.

“It really is a fantastic event for a great cause,” said Platinum Equity Managing Director Christian Cook, who lives in the Detroit area.

“We bring together local businesspeople, some local politicians, and a lot of local sports celebrities, all together to play golf, have a little fun, cut up a little bit, and it is all for a great cause with the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy.”

JRLA is in the midst of a $10 million capital campaign to expand its existing facility with a high school gymnasium, locker rooms, weight room, additional classrooms and a dedicated main entrance.

Platinum Equity’s support goes beyond the golf outing. The firm has introduced a mentorship program over the last two years with Platinum Equity employees traveling to Detroit for mentoring events. Some of the relationships established are still ongoing.

“It’s been a great experience,” said Platinum Equity Senior Associate Lindsay Saldebar, who participated in the golf outing and won an award for longest drive among women. “I’ve always had very strong mentors in my life, even some of those at Platinum. It’s been so nice to be able to be that resource and sounding board for my mentee.

“When I think about mentorship, it’s about constructing the right balance between providing advice but also making sure you’re championing their independence. This program has given me the opportunity to take what I’ve learned at the firm and outside of it to help mentor a girl that has similar ambitions.”

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