WASHINGTON COUNTY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Memorial Day weekend is upon us, and what better way to kick off the holiday than a round of 18. 

Dozens of golfers made their way to Washington County Golf Course for the Memorial Classic, hosted by local nonprofit Next 18.

Next 18 is a PGA Tour-supported group that uses the game of golf to help veterans and first responders with their mental health. 

We spoke with the group's founder, who touched on their philosophy when it comes to treating past trauma.

"We really focus on educating around childhood trauma, complex PTSD and moral injury, and teaching men and women who are first responders how to fix and repair relationships through golf, incorporating yoga, breathwork, meditation and journaling," Chairman and founder Matt McDonell said. "A lot of holistic, root cause addressing."

Over the past four years, Next 18 has hosted nearly 40 camps with more than 400 alumni from all across the country.