By Kim Constantinesco
For the PGA TOUR, golf is more than just a sport. It’s an avenue to step up and give back to those who need assistance in their daily lives.
The PGA announced Wednesday that their tournaments raised a record-breaking $160 million for charity last year. It was the first time they cleared the $150 million mark in a given year. With that, the organization has generated $2.3 billion since 1938 when they made their first contribution ($10,000) at the Palm Beach Invitational.
“This incredible record is due to the selfless work and tireless efforts of all the tournaments, sponsors, players and, especially, our volunteers,” said PGA TOUR Commissioner Tim Finchem. “Passing this milestone ensures that many lives will continue to be positively impacted in the communities where we play.”
That’s right, the PGA leans on over 100,000 volunteers to organize tournaments so that they can be formatted into non-profits with 100% of the proceeds going to charity.
So, where is all of this money going? Look no further than hospitals, food banks, and youth development programs.
For example, the AT&T Byron Nelson is propelled by the Salesmanship Club of Dallas, which has hosted the tournament since 1968.
All of the funds raised at the tournament go to the Momentous Institute, which provides over 6,000 children and their families with education and therapeutic services. They’re a powerhouse of well-being and self-care that teaches not only the basic reading, writing, and arithmetic skills, but also educates students and their loved ones on how their brain works and most importantly, how they can control their own reactions using their brain.
That’s right. Seeing a 5-year-old’s sketch of a brain with arrows pointed to the hippocampus, hypothalamus, and amygdala is commonplace in the hallways of the Momentous Institute. And it’s making a big difference. Although the school runs through fifth grade, its teachings carry on into high school and beyond. The high school graduation rate in the state of Texas sits at 88%. The high school graduation rate of Momentous School alumni is near perfect at 99%.
Where would this world be without golf and without the PGA TOUR?
It’s a daunting thought.
