PGA REACH IMPACT REPORT by cnypga

PGA REACH CNY

A MESSAGE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As we reflect on a remarkable year, we are proud to share the continued success and development of PGA REACH CNY. We have seen tremendous growth in our three main pillars of youth, veterans, and underserved communities, and we look forward to another successful year in 2025.

We hope this report demonstrates how your continued support is essential to our mission of positively impacting the lives of youth, veterans, and diverse communities through the game of golf.

This year, we have significantly expanded our outreach and brand. Through a 425% increase in HOPE Programs, record-breaking Jr League participation, and the hiring of our first Works Fellow, Casey Ware. We are grateful for the community support that makes our goals attainable.

While statistics alone cannot capture how golf is transforming lives in communities across our section, it remains the sole mission of PGA REACH CNY. The foundation's success is also a clear reflection of our relationships with local community members, golf professionals, local partners and facilities who have generously supported our initiatives and programs. Thank you for your faithful support, and we look forward to a great year ahead.

-JoeTesori

Our story so far

Our Mission

PGA REACH CNY, a 501(c) (3) charitable foundation, is dedicated to positively impacting lives through the game of golf. Our mission is to empower youth, support military veterans, and uplift the disadvantaged communities by providing access to the CNY PGA, its Professionals, and the sport itself. By creating opportunities for growth, connection, and community, PGA REACH CNY is transforming lives and making golf a catalyst for positive change.

21% Participants in our pillars increased

RECOGNIZING THE PGA REACH CNY BOARD OF GOVERNORS

2024 Officers

Alan Seamans, PGA

Nick Serafino, PGA

Andy Myers, PGA

Brittany Wowelko, PGA

2024 Board Members

Karayna Aksornkoae

Rick Keding, PGA

Ryan McGinnis, PGA

Linda Mulherin, PGA

Eileen Pezzi

Erik Saroney

Eric Schuster

Nichole Wall

Will Weimer, PGA

Don Zorn

President

Chairman

Vice Chairman

Treasurer

Joseph Tesori, PGA Executive Director

Staff

Casey Ware

Don Zorn

WORKS Fellow

Fundraising Consultant

PGA Jr. League are removing barriers for families to create new memories through the game of golf while instilling a meaningful introduction to the game of a lifetime.

$129,644

In Central New York in 2024, there were paid in Jr. League Golf Scholarships.

YOUTH

Drive, Chip and Putt is a free nationwide junior golf development competition aimed at growing the game by focusing on the three fundamental skills employed in golf.

454

Central New York hosted 3 qualifiers in 2024 allowing over 180 youth golfers the opportunity to qualify for the National Championship at Augusta National Golf Club.

One Central New York participant, Thomas Goodelle, competed at the National Championship held at Augusta National the

Tournament.

PGA Jr League Golf coaches in Central New York

Jr. League golfers in Central New York

Programs available to youth golfers of any skill level

Angel joined the Sunnycrest Jr. League Golf Team with little confidence and little knowledge of the sport. What he didn’t expect was how it would strengthen his relationship with his brother, and strengthen his overall confidence. The brothers have bonded over their shared love of golf, practicing together and

PGA Jr. League helped me. The program teaches patience, because it takes a lot of patience to hit a good shot.

Angel Viamontes,

offering support. This newfound camaraderie helped Angel build not just his golf skills, but his self-confidence. As Angel’s game improved, so did his willingness to try other sports, from basketball to tennis. The lessons learned on the golf course perseverance, teamwork, and self-belief —gave him the courage to embrace new challenges. Through his time with the Sunnycrest team, Angel not only became a better golfer but grew into a more confident and well-rounded person. The experience inspired him to face new obstacles with the same determination he applied to his golf game.

PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) introduces and teaches golf to Veterans and Active Duty Military to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being. Led by PGA of America Golf Professionals, the program is inclusive of a developmental 6-8 week curriculum. All programs are provided at no cost to all participating Veterans.

MILITARY

PGA REACH CNY ran three veteran specific community/ partner events this season. The PGA HOPE Pro-Am, the Usherwood HOPE ProAm and the online HOPE 4 HEROES Campaign.

The Usherwood HOPE Pro-Am was a pilot program that brought three HOPE Graduates out to play with our partners at Usherwood Office Technologies for a great day of fun and camaraderie.

$5,000

The HOPE 4 HEROES Campaign raised over and Central New York was 3rd highest in the amount raised.

Facilities across Central New York

HOPE graduates in Central New York

Programs available to veterans and active duty military

My husband Terrance participated in your golf activities for 2 years. I can tell you what a blessing it was for him to have this opportunity. He always wanted to be in a golfing league and learn to play better. You provided him with an opportunity to fulfill this from his bucket list. Unlike a lot of

You made him feel important. I cannot repay you or thank you enough for this gift.

Theresea Wellenzohn

veterans, he was 'non combat' . Although he spent most of his time on a ship overseas, since it wasn't in a war zone or Vietnam, he felt his contribution to the military didn't count. You and I know that's not the case, but your kind support of him at this time in his life brought him some pride in his service as well as camaraderie with gentle instructors and kind men. God bless you. You made a lasting memory for his family, even though his own memory has diminished significantly. You made him feel important. I cannot repay you or thank you enough for this gift. You gave him what your name signifies...HOPE.

MILITARY IMPACT STORY

PGA REACH Central New York is committed to furthering The PGA of America’s efforts of becoming more inclusive through PGA WORKS.

PGA WORKS is on a mission to help engage and diversify the next generation of the golf industry’s leaders and beyond.

UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES

100+

4,000

Bellevue CC members donated approximately pounds of gently used clothing for PGA REACH CNY to give to the Mary Nelson Foundation for families in need.

100

More than toys were donated by CNY PGA members at the annual Fall Meeting on Oct. 21 and during the month of November.

The CNY PGA Women’s Golf Association had an incredibly successful Fall Championship with over 60 women playing in the field.

Women participated in the WGA Fall Championship

Toys donated from CNY PGA Members

Pounds of clothes donated to Mary Nelson Foundation 4K

Ware’s introduction to golf came through PGA HOPE. As a Veteran, I took part in the program a year ago at Turning Stone Resort Casino with Ryan McGinnis, PGA. As a PGA HOPE graduate, my experience will be useful to my Fellowship responsibilities.

That’s the most fun for me, the social aspect part.

“I want to help out as much as I can. I’m excited to have this opportunity and make a difference in the upcoming year.”

Casey Ware, WORKS Fellow

That’s the awesome thing about PGA HOPE. I can explain what it’s about and what they do during the clinics because I’ve done it. You get some instruction and you go hit golf balls and be with other Veterans.

Being a WORKS Fellow is a good opportunity for me to see the business side of golf. When my year is up, I’ll see if this is a career path I want to go forward with. Right now, I’m taking it day by day looking to make a difference.