CHICO, Calif. — The third annual ‘Swing Fore Cesar’ Golf Tournament at the Bidwell Park Golf Course took place in Chico on Friday, raising awareness for the mental health of first responders in Butte County.
A total of 166 golfers participated in this year’s event, which honors Chico Police Sergeant, father, grandfather, and husband Cesar Sandoval. Sergeant Sandoval dedicated over 28 years to law enforcement and passed away in 2022. Since then, numerous groups in the community have worked together to raise awareness of the mental health challenges faced by first responders, which often trickles down to their families at home.
The funds raised during the tournament will support the Butte Strong First Responders Wellness Unit, which aims to enhance the mental and physical health of local first responders and their families. Additionally, the money will contribute to the Cesar Sandoval Scholarship at Willows High School and the Sergeant Cesar Sandoval Award at the Butte College Police Academy. Both scholarships recognize individuals who exemplify the qualities that Sergeant Sandoval embodied.
“I got to work with Salazar, and he’s basically been a lifelong, long-time friend and a great person who would give you the shirt off his back. He just had a smile that would make you laugh,” said Brian Rodrigo, retired probation officer and board member of ‘Swing Fore Cesar.’
Memorial flag and plaque for Chico Police Sergeant Cesar Sandoval. (KRCR)
Board members told KRCR that more first responders die by suicide every year than those who die in the line of duty. Throughout a typical 20-year career, they say a law enforcement officer may encounter approximately 800 to 900 traumatic incidents, while the average person experiences only 5 to 6 traumatic events, highlighting the critical importance of awareness and prevention.
“One of our original missions was to focus on retirees because Cesar was a retiree, but we’ve also found that if we can target folks who are on the job and their families, it’s more preventative. In getting them the help that they need, the services, the money, whatever it is, we’re providing something that can ultimately help in the end,” said Lisa Jellison, licensed clinical social worker and board member of ‘Swing Fore Cesar.’
Photo of a Butte County Sheriff’s Office helicopter in Chico, Calif. on May 1, 2026. (KRCR)
Lisa Carrillo, another board member of ‘Swing Fore Cesar,’ encourages officers to reach out for help if needed and thanks the numerous community partners who share the same mission of safeguarding the mental health of those who endlessly serve the community.
“We can get you connected with the right people and really try to make sure that you are taken care of like you take care of the community,” Carrillo concluded.
For more information on ‘Swing Fore Cesar,’ click here. For resources, click here.
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