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PGA REACH | Featured Nonprofit Listing

Brad Smith • September 14, 2023

Introduction to PGA REACH

PGA Reach logo

In the realm of sports, few endeavors possess the transformative power that golf wields. Its serene landscapes and strategic gameplay have transcended mere recreation, evolving into a vehicle for positive societal change. At the forefront of this movement stands PGA REACH, an initiative that epitomizes the potential of golf to impact lives beyond the fairways and greens.

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A Beacon of Hope: The Genesis of PGA REACH

PGA REACH, the philanthropic arm of the Professional Golfers' Association of America (PGA), was conceived with a vision to harness the unifying force of golf and channel it towards noble causes. This foundation exemplifies the PGA's commitment to making a tangible difference in communities across the United States and beyond.



From the onset, PGA REACH set out to leverage the game's unique attributes—its accessibility, inclusivity, and enduring values—to effect positive change. It was not merely about perfecting swings or sinking putts, but about empowering individuals, particularly youth, veterans, and diverse populations, with opportunities that extended far beyond the golf course.

Nurturing the Next Generation: Youth & Junior Golf

Central to PGA REACH's mission is the belief that every child, regardless of background or circumstance, should have access to the transformative power of golf. The Youth & Junior Golf pillar exemplifies this commitment, providing resources, programs, and scholarships to introduce the sport to young enthusiasts.

Through initiatives like the "PGA Jr. League," which fosters teamwork, sportsmanship, and skill development, PGA REACH is sowing the seeds of a lifelong love for the game. This not only cultivates future golf champions but also instills invaluable life skills that transcend the sport.


Serving Those Who Served: Military & Veterans

PGA REACH extends its outreach to an often-overlooked demographic—the military and veterans community. Recognizing the therapeutic potential of golf for physical and emotional well-being, the foundation has pioneered programs like "PGA HOPE" (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere).


PGA HOPE provides golf instruction, equipment, and a supportive community for veterans, aiding in their rehabilitation and reintegration into civilian life. The power of camaraderie on the golf course becomes a beacon of hope for those who have served their nation.


Diverse Communities: Inclusivity and Equality

PGA REACH is committed to breaking down barriers and fostering a more inclusive golfing landscape. By partnering with organizations that promote diversity and equity, such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, the foundation is catalyzing change in communities that need it most.


Through mentorship programs, scholarships, and targeted outreach, PGA REACH aims to ensure that golf becomes a sport that truly belongs to everyone. It's not just about diversity on the course; it's about diversity in opportunity.


Empowering Through Education: PGA WORKS

Education is the cornerstone of progress, and PGA REACH recognizes this with its PGA WORKS initiative. This program strives to diversify the golf industry's workforce by providing access, training, and employment opportunities to underrepresented populations.


By breaking down systemic barriers and opening doors to careers within the golf industry, PGA WORKS is paving the way for a more inclusive and vibrant future for the sport.

In every program, every partnership, and every swing, PGA REACH embodies the belief that golf is more than a game—it's a force for good. Through its various pillars, the foundation is leaving an indelible mark on communities, demonstrating that the power of golf extends far beyond the course. In the subsequent segments, we will delve deeper into each facet of PGA REACH, unveiling the stories and impact that define this remarkable initiative.

PGA HOPE Secretary's Cup

PGA HOPE's Secretary's Cup stands as a testament to the profound impact of the PGA HOPE program on the lives of military veterans. This annual event, which commenced in 2016, serves as a celebration of the transformative power of golf in the rehabilitation and well-being of our nation's heroes. Named in honor of the Secretary of Veteran Affairs, this cup is a tangible expression of the partnership between PGA REACH and the Department of Veteran Affairs.


Commemorating a Meaningful Partnership

The genesis of Secretary's Cup can be traced back to a pivotal Memorandum of Understanding between PGA REACH and the Department of Veteran Affairs. This agreement formalized the commitment to use golf as a means to support the physical, emotional, and social well-being of veterans. The cup itself is a symbol of this collaboration, a tangible representation of the dedication to serve those who have served our nation.


A Unique and Memorable Experience

Secretary's Cup is not merely a golf tournament; it is an immersive experience designed to create lasting memories for both the veterans and the PGA professionals involved. Each team is a fusion of four veterans who have undergone the PGA HOPE program and one seasoned PGA or LPGA professional. This carefully curated combination brings together the expertise of golf professionals with the resilience and determination of veterans, creating a dynamic and inspiring team dynamic.


The tournament is strategically aligned with the week of the PGA Championship, adding an extra layer of prestige and excitement. This timing allows participants to be enveloped in the atmosphere of professional golf, providing them with an experience that transcends the competition itself.


Fostering Camaraderie and Resilience

Secretary's Cup is more than just a competitive event. It is a platform for camaraderie and mutual support, where veterans and professionals come together in a spirit of unity and shared purpose. The bonds forged on the course extend far beyond the greens, becoming a source of strength and solidarity for all involved.


For the veterans, this event represents a culmination of their journey through the PGA HOPE program—a testament to their determination and growth through the sport of golf. For the PGA and LPGA professionals, it is an opportunity to witness firsthand the profound impact of their guidance and expertise on the lives of those they serve.

Secretary's Cup

A Legacy of Empowerment

As Secretary's Cup continues to evolve and grow, it leaves a legacy of empowerment and inspiration in its wake. It serves as a beacon of hope for veterans, a reminder that they are not alone in their journey towards physical and emotional well-being. It also reaffirms the commitment of PGA REACH and the Department of Veteran Affairs to continue leveraging the power of golf for the betterment of veterans' lives.


The PGA WORKS John & Tamara Lundgren Scholars Program

The PGA WORKS John & Tamara Lundgren Scholars Program stands as a beacon of opportunity for students from historically underrepresented backgrounds who aspire to carve a path in the golf industry. This initiative, launched to address the diversity gap within the sport, awards substantial scholarships to deserving individuals pursuing a PGA Golf Management University Program degree at accredited educational institutions.


A Generous Scholarship Award

At the heart of the John & Tamara Lundgren Scholars Program is a commitment to financial support and educational advancement. Each recipient is granted a scholarship worth $8,000, a substantial sum that significantly eases the financial burden of pursuing a higher education degree. This financial support opens doors to students who might otherwise face barriers to entering the golf industry.


Nurturing Diverse Talent

Diversity is more than just a buzzword; it's a fundamental principle that enriches the golf industry by bringing fresh perspectives and talent to the fore. The program specifically targets students from historically underrepresented backgrounds, ensuring that the golf industry becomes a more inclusive and equitable space.


By offering scholarships to students pursuing a PGA Golf Management University Program degree, the initiative not only encourages diversity but also equips these scholars with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the golf industry. This education is a pivotal step towards increasing diversity within the industry's workforce.


Opening Doors to PGA Membership

One of the most significant benefits of the John & Tamara Lundgren Scholars Program is that it paves the way for scholars to apply for PGA Membership. This is a transformative opportunity, as PGA Membership is a gateway to a world of possibilities within the golf industry. It signifies recognition and the potential for a rewarding career path.


Earning the Right to the Iconic Logo

The PGA logo is one of the most recognizable symbols in sports. When a scholar becomes a PGA Member, they earn the privilege of wearing this iconic logo with pride. It is a symbol of their dedication to the sport and their commitment to upholding its values.

PGA Scholars

Impactful Scholarship History

PGA Scholars

Since its inception in 2018, the John & Tamara Lundgren Scholars Program has made substantial strides in supporting students and promoting diversity within the golf industry. To date, it has awarded 47 scholarships, totaling an impressive $376,000 in financial aid. These scholarships represent not only financial assistance but also a vote of confidence in the potential of these scholars to shape the future of golf.

The impact of this program extends far beyond the dollars it provides. It is a testament to the golf community's commitment to inclusivity and equity, and it serves as a catalyst for change within the industry.


Conclusion: Shaping a Brighter Future Through Golf

In the tapestry of golf's influence, initiatives like PGA REACH and the PGA WORKS John & Tamara Lundgren Scholars Program stand as vibrant threads, weaving a narrative of empowerment, diversity, and positive change. PGA REACH's unwavering commitment to youth, veterans, and inclusive communities is a testament to the boundless potential of the sport to touch lives far beyond the fairways.


The Secretary's Cup, a tribute to the resilience of military veterans, exemplifies the transformative power of the PGA HOPE program. It forges connections, fosters camaraderie, and celebrates the indomitable spirit of those who have served their nation.


Meanwhile, the John & Tamara Lundgren Scholars Program blazes a trail towards a more diverse and inclusive golf industry. By providing scholarships, it not only eases financial burdens but also paves the way for these scholars to become integral members of the PGA community, proudly wearing the emblematic logo that signifies their dedication.


These initiatives represent more than just programs; they are beacons of hope, embodiments of change, and catalysts for progress. Through education, mentorship, and the power of the sport itself, they are shaping a future where golf transcends boundaries and becomes a force for good.


As these stories unfold, one thing is abundantly clear: the impact of these programs reaches far beyond statistics and financial figures. It is etched in the smiles of veterans on the course, in the dreams of scholars aspiring to make their mark, and in the collective belief that golf has the power to transform lives.


In the chapters yet to be written, we anticipate even greater strides towards a more inclusive, diverse, and empowered golfing community. These initiatives, fueled by passion, purpose, and a commitment to positive change, are driving the narrative of golf towards a future brimming with potential and promise.

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