PGA REACH Foundation Gets $7.6M Grant to Expand Golf Access for Youth and Veterans

The Atlanta-based Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore, has provided $7.6 million in grant funding over three years to the PGA of America REACH Foundation, with a goal of positively impacting the lives of youth, military, and underserved communities across the nation.

The grant funding will provide 6,000 PGA Jr. League Scholarships for youth over the next three years “to remove barriers of participation,” the foundation said.

It will also create PGA Opportunity Leagues in 30 markets across the U.S. to provide access to golf for kids in underserved areas. Acting under the PGA Jr. League umbrella, PGA Opportunity Leagues provide youth with access to courses, clubs, shoes and uniforms free of charge.

PGA Jr. League [Photo: PGA REACH Foundation]

The 30 new leagues established through this grant funding will be operated by PGA of America Golf Professionals, in partnership with First Tee. Communities with First Tee programming will be eligible to apply for funding to establish a PGA Opportunity League, the foundation said.

Teeing up the game for veterans and service members

The funding will also alleviate the waitlist of military veterans interested in taking part in PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere). The flagship military program of the PGA of America REACH Foundation, PGA HOPE introduces the game to veterans and active-duty service members with a goal of enhancing their “physical, mental, social and emotional well-being.”

The funding help PGA HOPE serve more than 2,300 Veterans nationwide, while growing up to 80 total locations in Georgia. All programs are provided at no cost to veterans and active-duty military, the foundation said.

“I firmly believe the game of golf teaches invaluable life lessons and helps build skills that serve people of all ages in both their personal and professional lives,” Arthur M. Blank, owner and chairman of Blank Family of Businesses, said in a statement.

“Golf is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country—especially at the junior level—thanks to programs like PGA REACH and First Tee, and we’re proud to partner with these organizations to expand youth access to the game nationwide.”

Blank said he was also honored to serve “deserving military veterans” by expanding PGA HOPE.

‘An avenue to care for the game’

PGA of America President and Master Professional Don Rea said PGA REACH was created by PGA of America Golf Professionals “as an avenue to care for the game.”

“This generous grant empowers PGA professionals to break down barriers for youth and veterans, opening doors to life-changing opportunities on and off the course,” Rea added in a statement. “Together, we’re building a more inclusive game; a game that welcomes everyone and strengthens our communities for generations to come.”