Golf can be a therapeutic sport. There is something to be said about the healing nature of the social interactions we face on the green. That’s why the Northern California PGA Foundation announced it was bringing back its popular PGA HOPE, a program that introduces veterans to golf.
In order to enhance the mental, social, physical and emotional well-being of veterans, PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) aims to help veteran assimilate back into their communities via golf.
In partnership with PGA REACH, the 501(c)(3) charitable foundation of the PGA of America, PGA Professionals certified in golf instruction for Veterans with disabilities teach veterans the rules and basics of playing the game; and for those Veterans already familiar with golf, the PGA Pros will help them refine their skills.
“I can’t thank you enough. That was the best day I’ve had since 2010,” said one PGA HOPE Veteran.
PGA HOPE holds golf clinics around the San Francisco Bay Area for veterans, free of cost. These special events consist of an introductory clinic and six weeks of on-course lessons once a week for two hours.
For more information on these courses or for the schedule, location, and dates, visit https://www.ncpgafoundation.org/no-module-layout-2/40-pga-hope.
Even if you’re not into golf, you can still support these veterans. PGA HOPE is asking for donations and social media support using the hashtag #RaiseHOPE4Vets. If you’re passionate about supporting veterans, your donation can go a long way. Each clinic costs the organization approximately $7,000.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has partnered with PGA REACH to help promote PGA HOPE.
“We are grateful to PGA REACH for their commitment to our nation’s disabled Veterans,” said VA Secretary Robert McDonald. “When you think of rehabilitation, golf is not always the first thing you think of, but it can play an integral role in the healing process through social interaction, mental stimulation, and exercise. This is a great complement to the care our Veterans may receive at VA. I am confident that our Veterans will use this introduction as a platform to reenergize their competitive spirit, as well as to re-engage back into their communities.”
Sources:
https://www.ncpgafoundation.org/no-module-layout-2/40-pga-hope
