About Us

The Skeeter Project was founded in honor of Arnie "Skeeter" Castro, whose life was tragically cut short in 2017 after a private battle with mental health challenges. Arnie was someone who, like so many, found it difficult to open up about mental health. Talking about struggles wasn’t easy for him, and the stigma around seeking help kept those conversations out of reach. Yet, there was one place where Arnie always felt at home: on the golf course.

The idea behind The Skeeter Project was born from that simple truth; that sometimes the best way to start a conversation is not with words, but with shared experiences. By creating golf tournaments and other sports-based events, we aim to break down the stigma that keeps too many people silent. These events create welcoming spaces where participants can connect, build trust, and organically engage with mental health education in a way that feels natural and accessible.

Our mission is to increase mental health literacy, especially among those who may not feel comfortable having these conversations in traditional settings. We believe that by meeting people where they are, whether that be on the course, on the field, or in the community; we can help prevent tragedies like Arnie’s, while also equipping individuals with the tools to better navigate the challenges of everyday life. The Skeeter Project exists to honor Arnie’s memory by creating a world where asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but a first step toward strength.