Hope Cancer Resources sets Toss for Hope cornhole tournament in Lowell

Hope Cancer Resources is bringing Toss for Hope to The Matrix Club in Lowell on July 18, turning a cornhole bracket into a fundraiser for local cancer patients and families in Northwest Arkansas. The event keeps its focus close to home: all proceeds stay in the region, and the tournament is built as a teams-of-two competition rather than a showcase for only top-tier players.

The field is split into three divisions, social for beginners and families, intermediate, and competitive, giving players a place that fits their level. Organizers also built in a free kids zone for children of all ages, which makes the tournament as much a family outing as a competition day. Those who do not compete can still take part by sponsoring a patient, caregiver or survivor team, and sponsors will be recognized on event materials, T-shirts, banners, the website and social media. Sponsorships are listed from $250 to $5,000.

The event carries a personal link to Greg Krisell, a devoted husband, father and friend who died in 2019 while battling stage 4 cancer. The tournament was formerly known as the Greg Krisell Biggin’ in the Boat baggo tournament, and the rebrand to Toss for Hope keeps his memory attached to the fundraiser while giving Hope Cancer Resources a name that points toward its future work. A 2025 chamber notice identified Tasha Tandy of Walmart as event chair, underscoring the local business backing behind the tournament.

That backing matters because the money does not disappear into a general bucket. Hope Cancer Resources says it was formed in 2009 through the teamwork of NARTI and HOPE, Inc., and it provides free cancer support services that include counseling, transportation to cancer-related appointments, financial assistance, personal training, tobacco treatment and support groups. The organization says its mission is to provide compassionate, professional cancer support and education in Northwest Arkansas today and tomorrow.

Toss for Hope has become a recurring date on the local calendar because it combines a widely accessible summer sport with a clear purpose. The tournament gives cornhole players a chance to compete in Lowell while helping underwrite services that cancer patients and families can use immediately during treatment.