Golf Supports Veterans

playing golf supports veterans

For many people, golf is a leisurely activity that provides a chance to relax and enjoy the outdoors. And it is for veterans too, but that sense of community benefits them to feel camaraderie again. In addition to how golf helps veterans, organizations are fundraising through golf tournaments to support veterans’ initiatives. So, it’s nice for many golfers to know that playing golf supports veterans.

Most importantly, these organizations, through their fundraising, work to create a sense of camaraderie and support among veteran golfers. For many veterans, these organizations provide an essential outlet for staying physically and mentally healthy.

The tournaments also help to raise awareness of the needs of veterans. Golf is a great way to support and assist veterans. It is a game that people of all ages and abilities can play. When you play golf, you are supporting a worthy cause and helping to make a difference in the lives of veterans.

In this blog post, we will outline several organizations supporting veterans through the game of golf.

Know Before You Donate

Before donating to any non-profit organization, go to Charity Navigator or Guide Star to learn more about the non-profit and make the best decision.   

Birdies for the Brave

Birdies for the Brave is an organization that provides golf experiences for veterans. It was founded in 2004 by PGA Tour professional Phil Mickelson and his wife, Amy. Birdies for the Brave works with several military hospitals to provide free or discounted golf outings, lessons, and clinics for wounded, ill, and injured veterans.

The organization aims to help veterans reconnect with their families and communities through golf. In addition, Birdies for the Brave also raises awareness and support for military families. The organization has raised over $12 million for military charities.

Birdies for the Brave supports programs like Callaway Warrior Club Fittings, which provides combat-wounded heroes an opportunity to be fit for their custom golf clubs. And military ticketing program offers discounted tickets and access to golf events.

Tee It Up For The Troops

Tee It Up For the Troops is a national non-profit that provides free golf events for military veterans. The organization was founded in 2006 by a group of veterans to give back to those who served. Since its inception, Tee It Up For the Troops has held more than 1,000 events nationwide.

The organization allows veterans to connect and play a game they love while promoting physical and mental health. In addition, Teeing It Up For the Troops offers free lessons and clinics to help veterans get started in the game.

No matter your skill level, Tee It Up For the Troops provides a fun and supportive environment for all levels of play. So next time you’re out on the golf course, remember that you can help support our troops by having fun.

Patriot Golf Day

Patriot Golf Day is an annual event that invites people to play golf to support veterans. The event began in 2007 as a grassroots fundraising initiative over Labor Day Weekend. Golfers nationwide were encouraged to add an extra dollar to their green fees to fund Folds of Honor scholarships.

Over the years, the effort has grown to include various fundraising events, tournaments, and golf marathons led by PGA Professionals and golfers across America. The result is nearly 24,500 scholarships to benefit Folds of Honor.

Still, on Memorial Day weekend, golfers across the country are invited to play golf and donate to the Folds of Honor Foundation. The foundation provides scholarships for families of fallen or wounded servicemen and women.

Patriot Golf Day is a great opportunity for golfers to show support for veterans and give back to those who have sacrificed for our country.

Helping Our Heroes Foundation

The Helping Our Heroes Foundation is a charity that supports veterans and active-duty military personnel. One of the ways they support veterans is by organizing golf outings. These events allow participants to relax and socialize with other veterans. It also enables sponsors to show their support for veterans.

The foundation also offers financial assistance to veterans struggling to make ends meet. This assistance can help cover the costs of groceries, rent, utilities, and other necessary expenses.

In addition, the foundation provides mental health resources for veterans dealing with PTSD or other mental health issues. These resources can make a big difference in the lives of those who have served.

The Salute Military Golf Association

The Salute Military Golf Association (SMGA) was started in 2006 by Jim Estes, a former PGA Tour Player, and his childhood friend, Jamie Winslow. They saw the positive effect golf has on the recovery process of wounded veterans.

They aim to provide rehabilitative golf programs, experiences, and family-inclusive golf opportunities for post-9/11 wounded war veterans. In addition, they have SMGA golf professionals trained in teaching adaptive golf and providing a therapeutic outlet for wounded veterans on the golf course.

Eligible veterans and service members include those wounded or injured in post-9/11 military operations, including those with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and/or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

Playing Golf Supports Veterans

playing golf supports veterans

America’s veterans risk their lives to protect our freedoms and way of life. This is why supporting veteran fundraising organizations is so important. These veterans have given up so much for us. The least we can do is give back to them in whatever ways we can.

And one great way to do that is by participating in or donating to golf tournaments that support veteran charities. So get out there, show your support for the men and women who served our country, and play some golf!

What Do You Think?

Have you participated in any golf tournaments for veterans? We want to hear about your experiences in the comments below!

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