NFPGA Golf News

Ever since the first donation of $10,000 was made by the Palm Beach Invitational in 1938, giving to charity has become a philosophy of the world of golf. In 2005 the PGA Tour reached a milestone in all-time charitable donations totalling $1 billion.

At the grass roots level, the men and women of the North Florida Section of the PGA of America exemplify this philosophy by donating time and raising money for numerous charities, particularly those charities benefitting children.

Now all golfers have the chance to be affiliated with the golf pros by becoming a NFPGA Partner. With a membership of only $99, golfers can not only support the charitable efforts of their local PGA professionals, but also proudly wear the NFPGA logo, once reserved exclusively for PGA members to display, on a stylish golf shirt and hat, a bag tag and NFPGA Partner member card. Partners also receive a free 10-minute golf lesson with a PGA professional and invitations to NFPGA special events and tournaments.

Besides getting some cool gear, what does your partnership fee get you? Some of the initiatives partners support with a membership include:

Putting on Smiles

The project designed by PGA Master Professional Andre Panet-Raymond of Sarasota and supported by the NFPGA, engages PGA Professionals to visit children’s hospitals monthly. The golf professionals instruct the children of all ages on the fundamentals of putting in a light and fun manner, using colorful oversized plastic clubs, hitting miniature tennis balls to a Velcro target divided into point values. Once the children have confidence, the competition begins and in no time everyone in the room is “Putting on Smiles.” An official score board is made and posted on the wall. All children walk away with a ribbon, medal, or a smiley face golf ball and the winner receives a trophy. Hospitals involved include Arnold Palmer’s Children’s Hospital in Orlando, All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida Children’s Hospital, Wolfsons Children’s Hospital in Jacksonville, and Shands Children’s Hospital at the University of Florida, Gainesville.

Swing into Schools

The goal of this program is to introduce as many children to golf as possible, especially those who may not have access to a golf course. Members of the NFPGA focus on training middle school physical education teachers to conduct classes. The program offers equipment and educational materials to ensure that golf with all of its positive physical and character-building qualities will be enjoyed for generations to come.

Over 100 Junior Golf Programs

The NFPGA directly subsidizes area junior golf programs through monetary grants and by volunteering for tournaments and instruction across the state. Professionally run tournaments prepare juniors for high school and college competitions, while beginning programs introduce children to the rules, etiquette and sportsmanship skills needed to enjoy the game and develop skills for a lifetime of enjoyment.

Over 1500 PGA Members and Apprentices serve the needs of the golfers of North Florida from Jacksonville to Tallahassee, and south from Melbourne to Port Charlotte. The not-for-profit service organization was founded in 1979 and is one of the 41 Sections that make up the PGA of America. For a Partner membership or more information contact your local PGA professional or call 941-536-0733. Visit www.sectiongolfpartners.com