2024 PGA REACH Michigan Impact Report by MichiganPGA

2024 2024 REPORT REPORT

STATEMENT FROM OUR PRESIDENT, STATEMENT FROM OUR PRESIDENT,

STEPHANIE JENNINGS, PGA STEPHANIE JENNINGS, PGA

Greetings, Greetings,

For many Michigan residents and visitors, golf is a way of life. As the state with the most public golf courses, Michigan provides so many wonderful opportunities for golfers to hone their skills, bond with family and friends, and make lasting memories.ThesamecanbesaidabouttheimpactoftheMichiganPGAREACHFoundation.

OurfoundationisthefinancialbackboneforplayerdevelopmentandgrowthofthegameactivitiesintheMichiganPGAwithafocus on golf programming for juniors, military, and diverse populations. With goals to provide grants and scholarships, our foundation is set to truly make a meaningful impact through the game of golf. In 2024, we continued to see great growth in all our programs and ourmentalityisthattheskyisthelimitwhenitcomestodoingevenmoreforyearstocome.

PGAJr.LeagueandDrive,Chip&PuttcontinuetobetheleadingjuniorgolfprogramsunderourREACHFoundationumbrella.With 154activeprogramsin2024,PGAJr.Leaguegolfimpactedover1,900juniorgolfersfromtheagesof7-17.Thankstoourwonderful coursepartner,BinderParkGolfCourseinBattleCreekledbyPGADirectorofGolf,RonOsborne,andAssistantProfessional,Alex Johnson, we were able to host 28 13U teams and 11 17U teams at the Section Championship. In the Drive, Chip & Putt competitions,weexperiencednearlya5%increaseinparticipationfrom2023andwewereabletohost16localqualifiersacrossthe state.

UnderourREACHpillarofMilitarygolf,PGAHOPEhasbeenourfastestgrowingprogram.Wecompletedthe2024seasonwith14 programsacrossthelowerpeninsulaandservedover430Veterans.Lookingaheadto2025,wewillsupport23programsandserve nearly700Veteransstatewide.Theheart-warmingpartaboutPGAHOPEisthatmanyofourgraduateshavestayedconnectedwith eachothercreatinganextendedcommunityofsupportandkinship.

InadditiontoprogrammingforPGAHOPE,weareverypassionateaboutourPatriotClassicCharitableHockeyGame.Goingstrong for three years, our annual hockey game features a team of Michigan PGA Professionals showcasing their skills on the ice against some of the best retired NHL players who are members of the Detroit Red Wings Alumni team. Through donations and sponsorships, our PGA team members have generated $35,000 for PGA HOPE Michigan in the last two years. These wonderful donations have allowed our Section to expand programming, provide adaptive golf training for our professionals, and expand our staffwhoprovideyear-roundadministrativesupport.

Finally, saving the best for last, PGA REACH Michigan is a proud supporter of Detroit’s own Midnight Golf Program. Founded in 2001 by social worker and single mother, Renee Fluker who saw the impact that golf had on her son, Midnight Golf provides over 250Detroit-areahighschoolseniorswiththeopportunitytoreceivecollege-prepmentoringandbasicgolfinstructionoverthecourse ofa30-weekprogram.ThegolfinstructionisdeliveredweeklybyourMichiganPGAProfessionalsandtheprogramculminateswith a college campus tour and on-course experience in North Carolina and Georgia. In 2024, our foundation was happy to donate $10,000tohelpReneeandherteamcontinuetheirsuccess.

The leaders and staff of the Michigan PGA Section are so proud of the progress of our PGA REACH Michigan Foundation, yet we know there is more work to be done. Golf in Michigan can be a powerful tool to educate, to heal, and to entertain, and through the effortsofourhard-workingPGAProfessionals,weenvisionPGAREACHMichiganbeingadrivingforceinbringingthejoyofgolfto evenmoreinourGreatLakesstate.

The Growth of the Game Committee within the Michigan PGA Section is dedicated to expanding access to golf by fostering new opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels. In support of PGA REACH Michigan, the committee works to make the game more inclusive, welcoming, and sustainable through championing innovative programs and community outreach. By promoting player development and increasing participation, they ensure that golf continues to thrive for future generations.

GROWTH OF THE GAME COMMITTEE GROWTH OF THE GAME COMMITTEE

MICHIGAN PGA SECTION MICHIGAN PGA SECTION

Player Development Coordinator & PGA

REACH Michigan Activities Director, Michigan PGA

Growth of the Game Committee Chair

MADISON MAURIER

KELLY KUHLMAN

BILL MORY, PGA

KELLY PLAISIER, PGA

SCOTT WILSON, PGA

DEAN MARKS, PGA

DOUG TEMPLE, PGA

PILLAR

PILLARS AT A GLANCE PILLARS AT A GLANCE Youth Youth

Military Military PILLAR

Inclusion Inclusion PILLAR

THE YOUTH PILLAR of PGA REACH Michigan is dedicated to ensuring that no child is left behind in their journey to discover and enjoy the game of golf. Committed to fostering the next generation of golfers, PGA REACH Michigan provides inclusive, high-quality programs across the Section to inspire and develop young players.

This pillar supports key initiatives such as PGA Jr. League, Drive, Chip & Putt, the Junior PGA Championships, and Golf in Schools programs, while also offering Player Development grants to Michigan PGA Professionals, enabling them to create and expand programs at their facilities. Each of these initiatives is led by experienced Michigan PGA Professionals who serve as positive role models, creating a fun, safe, and welcoming learning environment for all participants.

THE INCLUSION PILLAR is a core value of PGA REACH Michigan, ensuring that diversity and inclusivity are embedded in our organization, programs, and business operations. We are dedicated to creating opportunities that welcome individuals from all backgrounds into the game of golf.

A key initiative within this pillar is the PGA WORKS Fellowship, which helps diversify the golf industry’s workforce by inspiring and engaging talented individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue careers in golf. We also proudly support the Midnight Golf Program, providing both financial contributions and access to PGA Professional instructors who mentor and guide participants. Additionally, we offer Adult Player Development grants to Michigan PGA Professionals and Associates, empowering them to create welcoming and accessible programs at their facilities.

PGA REACH Michigan is the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and philanthropic arm of the Michigan PGA Section, one of the 41 sections in the PGA of America. Our members from across the entire Michigan PGA Section are committed to serving our communities and growing the game of golf through our three pillars- Youth, Military, and Inclusion.

YOUTH YOUTH INCLUSION INCLUSION

PGA Jr. League

Drive, Chip & Putt

Golf in Schools

YOUTH

YOUTH PILLAR PILLAR

2024 SEASON 2024 SEASON

PGAJr.League is the flagship junior program of the PGA of America’s 501(c)(3) foundation, PGA REACH. It is afun, social, and inclusiveopportunity for boys and girls, ages 17 & under, to enjoy the game of golf. Like other recreational youth sports, participants wear numbered jerseys and play on teams with friends. Our Michigan PGA Professionals coach teams in a popular two-person scramble format which reinforces the team concept and creates a nurturing environment for learning the game ofgolf.Morethan1,900juniorsacrossMichigan participateinthisentrypointtothegame.

The PGA Jr. League Scholarship Fund is dedicated to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn, play, and fall in love with the game of golf. By removing financial barriers, we help families create lifelong memories through experiences that go beyond the game itself. Thank you to PGA REACH for its invaluable support in makingthisimpactpossible!

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2024 #GAMECHANGER AWARD WINNERS 2024 #GAMECHANGER AWARD

EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION

The #GameChanger Awards, launched by the PGA of America’s Player Engagement team in 2019, celebrate PGA Jr. League Coaches who expand youth golf opportunities. They honor the 25 largest PGA Jr. League programs nationwide and the top program in each of the 41 PGA Sections.

PLAYER ENGAGEMENT AWARDS

In 2022, the Player Engagement Award was introduced to honor Coaches who: lead 24+ active PGA Jr. League players, host multiple age divisions or seasons, organize a PGA Family Golf event, and hold ADM (American Development Model) certificationthroughthePGACoachplatform.

Tiffany Simons, PGA Country Club of Lansing

Tobias Edgett, PGA Associate Coyote Preserve Golf Club

Kevin McKinley, PGA First Tee Northern Michigan

Kelly Kuhlman, PGA Twin Lakes Golf & Swim Club

Dean Marks, PGA Milham Park Golf Course

Alex Parry, PGA Associate Fieldstone Golf Club of Auburn Hills

DRIVE, CHIP & PUTT DRIVE, CHIP & PUTT

FROM LOCAL GREENS TO FUTURE DREAMS FROM LOCAL GREENS TO FUTURE DREAMS

A joint initiative founded in 2013 by the Masters Tournament, United States Golf Association and The PGA of America, Drive, Chip & Putt is a free nationwide junior golf development competition aimed at growing the game by focusing on the three fundamental skills employed in golf.

By tapping the creative and competitive spirit of girls and boys ages 7-15, Drive, Chip & Putt provides aspiring junior golfers an opportunity to play with their peers in qualifiers around the country. Participants who advance through local, subregional and regional qualifying in each age/gender category earn a place in the National Finals, which is conducted at Augusta National Golf Club the Sunday before the Masters Tournament and is broadcast live by the Golf Channel.

Each year, we proudly host 16 local Drive, Chip & Putt qualifiers and 2 sub-regionals across Michigan, providing young golfers with the opportunity to showcase their skills. Thanks to the incredible support of our PGA Professionals and their facilities, these events continue to inspire and grow the next generation of golfers.

2 2

SUB-REGIONAL QUALIFIERS

LOCAL QUALIFIERS

33 33 16 16

PGAPROFESSIONALS INVOLVED

PARTICIPANTS

1,496 1,496

FROM MICHIGAN TO MARYLAND FROM MICHIGAN TO MARYLAND

THE PATH THAT TURNS JUNIORS INTO CHAMPIONS THE PATH THAT TURNS JUNIORS INTO CHAMPIONS

The 2024 Michigan Junior PGA Championships showcased incredible talent and competition, with both the boys' and girls' events played on challenging courses in top condition.

GIRLS

OVERALL PLAYERS

The Michigan Girls Junior PGA Championship took place at Washtenaw Golf Club on June 2021. Alena Li claimed the title with a winning score of 140 (-4), while Elise Fennell secured the runner-up spot at 144 (E).

The Michigan Boys Junior PGA Championship was held at Bedford Valley Golf Club on June 2728. After 36 holes of impressive play, Cooper Reitsma emerged as the champion, finishing at 137 (-7). Vibhav Alokam was the runner-up, carding a 139 (-5), highlighted by a stellar second-round 68.

Michigan sent the Champion & Runner-Up to the National Junior PGA Championship hosted at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Maryland on July 30 - August 2, 2024 – Cooper Reitsma, Vibhav Alokam, Alena Li and Elise Fennell!

PGAHOPECERTIFIED PROFESSIONALS

PGA HOPE PGA HOPE

HELPING OUR PATRIOTS EVERYWHERE HELPING OUR PATRIOTS EVERYWHERE

PGAHOPEMichiganorganizesstructuredgolfprograms,providingfreegolf instruction,clinics,andcourseaccesstoVeterans,fosteringasenseofcommunity andsupportwhilefocusingontheuniquebenefitsgolfoffersforphysicalandmental rehabilitation.Throughthisprogram,Veteransarenotonlyintroducedtogolfskills, butalsoexperiencecamaraderie,improvedconfidence,andapathwaytobetter integratebackintocivilianlife.

Acrossthe14programlocations,PGAHOPEMichiganhasleftalastingimpacton over430graduatesin2024.Astheprogrammovesinto2025,itcontinuesto expanditsreach,offeringevenmoreopportunitiesforVeteranstoexperience healingandcamaraderiethroughgolf.

PGA HOPE gave me a chance to meet other Veterans from all branches and share a very special bond. The fact that the PGA is interested in Veterans is very touching and heartwarming. Little did I know or expect that when I signed the dotted line and gave up many rights as a civilian to serve my country that I would be recognized or honored by getting golf lessons from a PGA professional. Thank you!

Kelly Casey, USAF PGA HOPE Schoolcraft Graduate

A PGA HOPE Michigan Ambassador is a Veteran who exemplifies leadership, resilience, and a deep commitment to helping others through the game of golf. Mark Hitchcock serves as the sole PGA HOPE Michigan Ambassador, representing the PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) program within the Michigan Section. In this role, Mark acts as a mentor, advocate, and role model, passionately supporting the program’s mission to enhance the physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being of Veterans through the healing power of golf.

UNITING VETERANS THROUGH GOLF UNITING VETERANS THROUGH GOLF

A DAY OF CAMARADERIE, COMPETITION & HEALING A DAY OF CAMARADERIE, COMPETITION & HEALING

The Michigan PGA HOPE Cup celebrates the PGA HOPE Program by providing a unique and memorable experience for our graduates and the PGA Professionals who work tirelessly to positively impact Veterans' lives. This event serves as an opportunity to celebrate PGA HOPE graduates and connect Veterans from across the state. Each team is made up of four graduates from a PGA HOPE program and one PGA or LPGA Professional.

The inaugural Michigan PGA HOPE Cup was held at The Fortress in Frankenmuth, MI where we had over 60 Veterans and 17 Michigan PGA Professionals join us to celebrate the end of the PGA HOPE season!

To kick off the event, the American Legion Post 150 in Frankenmuth performed a rifle salute and the National Anthem during our opening ceremony. We also performed a unity putt to represent the value of camaraderie that the PGA HOPE program continuestoprovidetoourGraduates.

Teamsweremadeupof fourVeteransand one PGA Professional who led them in a nine-hole scramble, followed by lunch and a meet & greet. The special guests included 4-time Stanley Cup Champion with the Detroit Red Wings, Darren McCarty, and PGA of America President, JohnLindert!

Congratulations to PGA Professional, Doug Temple and his team for earning the first ever Championship title of the Michigan PGA HOPE Cup! Doug and his team of Brad Blanchard, Ricky Holbrook, Rueben Rodea, and Patrick Shannon represent our PGA HOPE Midland program held at Currie Municipal Golf Course.

We extend a special congratulations to our winning team for earning the opportunity to represent Michigan and compete at the 2025 PGA HOPE Secretary’s Cup in Charlotte, NC as a wildcard team!

COMPETING FOR A CAUSE COMPETING FOR A CAUSE

GRADUATES TEAM UP TO RAISE MONEY IN THE GRADUATES TEAM UP TO RAISE MONEY IN THE

2ND ANNUAL OPERATION: HERO CHALLENGE

The second annual Operation: Hero Challenge, held at Bedford Valley Golf Club, was a tremendous success in support of PGA HOPE programs in Michigan. The event raised $16,800, helping to expand the program and further its mission of serving Veteran communities through golf.

Thirty-two teams, each composed of two PGA HOPE Graduates, participated in an 18-hole scramble, which featured a skills competition focused on driving, chipping,andputting.

Graduates had the chance to showcase the skills they’ve developed through the PGA HOPE program, competing in the skills challenge where participants earned points based on the accuracy of theirshots.Inadditiontothecompetition, participants raised significant funds to support the event, contributing to the overalltotal.

A special congratulations goes to John Le and Christopher Wellman, graduates of the PGA HOPE Belmont program, who raised the most funds - $1,125during the event. The Operation: Hero Challenge was not only a celebration of PGA HOPE graduates but also a key milestone in the continued growth and impact of the program, benefiting VeteransacrossMichigan.

PGA HOPE came at a time when I needed help to overcome my physical challenges, and improve my mental and emotional state through the camaraderie of other Veterans. The program has led me to a more positive outlook in life. By competing in the Operation: Hero Challenge, I can contribute to the growth of the program that has served me so that other Veterans have the chance to participate.

Cecilia Glynn, USAF, US Army PGA HOPE Pierson Graduate

UMBERTO AVILA

AVILA || JOHN DRENTH JOHN DRENTH || MICHAEL GOWER MICHAEL GOWER

DEAN KOLSTAD, PGA

2ND ANNUAL PATRIOT CLASSIC 2ND ANNUAL PATRIOT CLASSIC

CHARITY HOCKEY GAME CHARITY HOCKEY GAME

HITTING THE ICE TO HONOR OUR HEROES

In a joint effort between former Michigan PGA President and former NHL player, Dean Kolstad, and George Bowman, Michigan PGA Member and Secretary of the Detroit Red Wings Alumni Association,the Patriot Classic Charity Hockey Game was organized to raise funding for charity groups that serve Veterans of the armed forces. “TheRedWingsarethestarsonice,andtheydo it for fun while helping groups raise money for charitable causes,” Bowman said. “The PGA players are also raising money in this effort and getting to fulfill a dream of playing hockey againstsomeof theworld’sfinestprofessionals.”

After a successful inaugural event, the Michigan PGA Professionals and the Detroit Red Wings Alumni Association (DRWAA), along with other former NHL players, returned to the ice for the 2024 Patriot Classic Charity Hockey Game. Held on Sunday, February 18, at MSU’s Munn Ice Arena, the event once again blended golf and hockey while raising vital funds for three VeteranServiceOrganizations.

For the second consecutive year, the event highlighted the crossover talent of golf professionals on the ice, all while supporting charities dedicated to Michigan Veterans. Spectators attended free of charge and had the opportunity to donate, directlyimpactingthelivesof thosewhoserved.

Hockey greats such as Red Berenson, Mike Knuble, Jiri Fischer, John Ogrodnick, Ed Mio, Danny DeKeyser, Kevin Miller, and Jason Woolley suited up for the Alumni team. Joining them were former Michigan State Spartan and NHL player Kip Miller, former Universityof MichiganandNHLstandoutBrendanMorrison,and formerproKraigNienhuis.

Led by former NHL player and Michigan PGA Past President DeanKolstad,andGeorgeBowman,MichiganPGAMemberand Secretary for the DRWAA, the Michigan PGA team included players with collegiate, club, and even professional hockey experience. Honorary coaches for the Michigan PGA Team included Kevin Helm, Executive Director of the Michigan Section PGA, and John Lindert, PGA of America President from the CountryClubof Lansing.

With proceeds supporting PGA HOPE Michigan, Folds of Honor, and Spike’s K9 Fund, the event continued to make a meaningful difference in the Veteran community. As the Patriot Classic Charity Hockey Game grows, so does its impact, ensuring these organizations receive the funding needed to assist Veterans and theirfamilies.

In its first two years, the event raised over $230,000.

INCLUSION INCLUSION

PILLAR PILLAR

INSIDE THE ROPES INSIDE THE ROPES

WITH PGA WORKS FELLOW HAYLEY GUILINGER WITH PGA WORKS FELLOW HAYLEY GUILINGER

In May 2024, the Michigan PGA welcomed HayleyGuilinger as its newest PGA WORKS Fellow.

Originally from Illinois, she earned her Undergraduate degree from Culver Stockton College and a Master’s from Western Illinois University. A four-year collegiate golfer, she discovered her passion for the golf industry through an internship with the Hurricane Junior Golf Tour.

Although always drawn to event coordination and tournament operations, this Fellowship has deepened her understanding of adaptive golf, inclusion, and tournament management. Working closely with Michigan PGA Professionals and industry leaders, Hayley has gained invaluable experience in making golf more accessible and impactful for diverse communities.

With a strong passion for women in golf and tournament operations, Hayley has embraced this opportunity to grow within the industry while supporting meaningful programs like PGA HOPE. This role has reinforced her commitment to growing the game—especially for women— and set the stage for her next step in the industry.

WHAT DREW YOU TO THE PGA WORKS FELLOWSHIP?

I always knew I wanted to work in golf in some capacity, but I wasn’t sure how to take the first step. After completing my internship in Orlando, I began searching for jobs, and that’s when I came across this opportunity—it felt like exactly what I had been looking for.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE PART OF BEING WITH THE MICHIGAN SECTION STAFF?

It’s felt like being part of a close-knit family. From day one, I felt truly welcomed and supported throughout my time here. I love the collaborative atmosphere and the team mentality, where everyone pitches in to help wherever needed.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR FELLOWSHIP?

The most rewarding part has been witnessing the real impact that golf and our programs have on people. Watching others enjoy and fall in love with the game is truly amazing!

HOW HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE AS A PGA WORKS FELLOW HELPED YOU GROW PROFESSIONALLY AND PERSONALLY?

ThepastyearasaPGAWORKSFellowhasbeenallaboutgrowth.I’velearnedtopush beyondmycomfortzone,embracenewexperiences,andchallengemyselfinwaysI neverexpected.Evenwhensomethingfeltuncomfortableatfirst,itbecamean opportunityforlearninganddevelopment.I’vegainedconfidence,expandedmy knowledgeofthebusinesssideofgolf,andpickedupvaluableinsightsthatI’llcarrywith meintomynextjourney.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU LIKE TO GIVE TO YOUNG PROFESSIONALS LOOKING TO TAKE THE SAME PATH AS YOU?

Keep an open mind and be willing to try new things! This experience helped me discover what I enjoy—and what I don’t—about working in the golf industry. Being open to new opportunities allows you to learn and grow in unexpected ways. Also, don’t underestimate the power of networking—connecting with people and building relationships will be invaluable as you move forward in this industry. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the journey!

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE CAREER GOALS AFTER COMPLETING THE FELLOWSHIP?

I want to stay in the golf industry and have been leveraging the network I’ve built during my time in Michigan to explore potential opportunities. My goal is to continue along the path of tournament operations and program coordination.

The PGA WORKS Fellowship is designed to create an all-inclusive experience for young professionals who are ready to kickstart their career in the game of golf. The Fellowship provides a six- to twelve-month, paid immersion in aPGASection’soperationsdesignedtohelpfoster developmentandanewskillsetinallfacetsof the golf industry and beyond. It’s a chance to grow, learn and gain valuable experience in an expandingbusiness.

PAIGE’S PARTING MESSAGE PAIGE’S PARTING MESSAGE

HER JOURNEY IN THE GOLF INDUSTRY

The 2023-2024 PGA WORKS Fellow, Paige Kopczyk, completed her Undergraduate and Masters degrees at Central Michigan University. Coming into the Fellowship in May of 2023, Paige had limited golf experience. However, throughout the year, she furthered her knowledge in adaptive golf, inclusion, and nonprofit work. The fellowship provided her with the opportunity to network with Michigan PGA Professionals and others within the industry. The connections she made opened the door to her full time position following her Fellowship:ExecutiveDirectorfortheFirstTee ofEasternMichigan.

DRIVING SUCCESS THROUGH DRIVING SUCCESS THROUGH THE MIDNIGHT

GOLF PROGRAM THE MIDNIGHT GOLF PROGRAM

EMPOWERING DETROIT’S FUTURE, ONE SWING AT A TIME EMPOWERING DETROIT’S FUTURE, ONE SWING AT A TIME

At its core, Midnight Golf is built on the values of determination, respect, responsibility, and community. It focuses not only on preparing students for higher education but also on fostering strong character and career readiness. Through intensive mentoring, college preparation workshops, and career exploration, participantsgaincruciallifeskillsthathelpthemnavigate their futures with confidence. A key supporter of the program, the Michigan PGA Section, provides both financial backing and access to Michigan PGA Professionals who serve as golf coaches, further reinforcing the program’s mission of using golf as a vehicleforpersonalandprofessionalgrowth.

The College Career & Beyond (CCB) Midnight Golf Program is a life-changing initiative founded in 2001 by Renee Fluker to empower young people by providing themwiththeskills,resources,andmentorshipneededto succeed in college, careers, and life. Based in Detroit, this 30-week program uniquely combines personal and professionaldevelopmentwiththesportof golf,usingthe game as a tool to teach discipline, integrity, and perseverance. Designed for high school seniors, Midnight Golf offersstructuredguidanceinareassuchasfinancial literacy,publicspeaking,networking,andleadership.

One of the program’s highlights is the Road Trip for Success,animmersivecollegetourwherestudentsvisit multiple colleges and universities, meet with admissions representatives, and experience campus life firsthand. This trip plays a vital role in helping students envision their futures and make informed decisions about higher education.

The impact of the Midnight Golf Program is profound, withover 5,000alumni whohavegoneontoearncollege degrees and establish successful careers. Many graduates return as mentors, reinforcing a cycle of empowerment and community upliftment. The program boasts a 90%+ college enrollment rate among participants,significantlyoutpacingnationalaveragesfor similar demographics. By combining mentorship, education, and golf—with the dedicated support of the Michigan PGA Section—Midnight Golf transforms lives, openingdoorsforyoungpeopletoachievedreamsthey mighthaveoncethoughtwereoutofreach.

1,500

5,000 5,000

DRIVING PARTICIPATION, DEVELOPING TALENT DRIVING PARTICIPATION, DEVELOPING TALENT

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT GRANTS HELPING PLAYER DEVELOPMENT GRANTS HELPING

PGA PROFESSIONALS MAKE AN IMPACT AT THEIR FACILITIES

In 2024, PGA REACH Michigan provided a total of $49,400 in grant funding to PGA Professionals and Associatestosupportajuniororadult golf program in their local community andpromotethegame'sgrowth.

2024 Junior Program of the Year Winner

Lynn Janson, PGA

WhatbeganasasmallinitiativebyPGAProfessionalLynnJansonoveradecadeagohasgrownintoasuccessful,year-roundjuniorgolf programatTheLegacy,earningthe2024MichiganPGAJuniorProgramoftheYearaward.TheprogramincludesaPGAJr.Leaguewith 52 kids, the Legacy Jr. Golf Program, and a partnership with the YMCA of Barry County. Thanks to grant funding, the program has flourished, with 107 junior golfers, 20 volunteers, and 10 assistant coaches. It has helped kids earn college scholarships, compete in tournaments,andreturnasclubmembers,strengtheningthefutureof thegame.Theprogram’ssuccesshasalsoboostedTheLegacy, contributingtotheconstructionofa$500,000simulatorfacility.

Lynn Janson’s vision, along with the Michigan PGA’s support, has transformed The Legacy into a leader in junior golf development, growingthegameandshapingfuturegolfers.

2024 Adult Program of the Year Winner JT Aude, PGA

In2023,PGAProfessionalJTAude,MichaywePines,Garland,andGaylordGolf ClubjoinedforcestocontinuetheMilitaryGolf League afteritleftTreetops.GaylordGolf Clubofferedadiscounted$20rateperplayer,andwhatstartedasafreenightof golf forVeteransgrew intosomethingbigger.Communityleadersraisedover$10,000,covering10of 16leaguenights,makingtheexperiencemorespecial.

This program fostered a strong sense of community, with sponsors personally thanking Veterans and staff at Gaylord Golf Club fully embracing the league. Thanks to Aude’s leadership, the initiative was named the 2024 Michigan PGA Adult Program of the Year, showcasingthepowerof golf tounitepeople.

STATEMENT FROM OUR STATEMENT FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As the Executive Director of the Michigan PGA, it is very rewarding to be able to share this summary of all of the activities and accomplishments within our PGA REACH Michigan Foundation. The game of golf is an amazing sport and a catalyst for good. We get to see every day how golf improves lives and communities, and we are dedicated to continuing to grow and expand our impact.

Once again, our Growth of the Game Committee administered our grant program to support grassroots programs that our PGA Professionals are involved in within their communities. These programs serve a wide range of individuals, and to align more closely with the vision and mission of our foundation, in 2025, we will be organizing and awarding grants in each of our three pillars —junior golf, military, and inclusion.

Junior Golf – Whether it be competitive golf opportunities like our Michigan Junior PGA Championship or more developmental programming like Drive, Chip & Putt or PGA Jr. League, we continue to engage thousands of junior golfers in fun and impactful programs.

KEVIN HELM KEVIN HELM

Inclusion – Great strides have been made when you look at the demographics of who plays the game, but continued growth in this area is challenged unless we are intentional about ensuring diversity among those who work in and lead the golf industry. The PGA WORKS Fellowship program is changing from paid yearlong positions to six-month positions within PGA Section Offices. The goal is to provide an introduction to the golf industry to individuals from diverse backgrounds. We are proud to have had seven PGA WORKS Fellows at the Michigan PGA, and all but one of them are currently working within the golf industry. We look forward to introducing our eighth PGA WORKS Fellow, who will join our staff in May.

We are also extremely proud of our long-standing relationship with the Midnight Golf Program. Since its beginning in 2001, MGP has served over 5,000 high school seniors in the greater Detroit area, using golf as a foundation to prepare them for college and beyond.

Military – Our flagship military program is PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), a six-week program that provides golf, social interaction, and emotional healing for Veterans. Many of our Nation’s Heroes suffer from depression, PTSD, and other conditions that challenge their ability to re-enter and enjoy civilian life. PGA HOPE changes and saves lives, and we are proud that we had another year of huge growth in the number of program locations, sessions offered, and Veterans served. For 2025, we once again have increased interest in running programs and expect to serve nearly 700 Veterans. We need more funding to make that happen and are planning new fundraising events and activities. If you are interested in helping with our mission to serve and support our Nation’s Heroes, please reach out to us to find out how to donate to the cause.

The work we do would not be possible without our staff, volunteers, and donors. Thank you to all who have contributed time, money, or some other means of support. We are actively looking for individuals, foundations, or corporations who may share our vision and have the desire to support and allow us to grow the work within our three pillars.

If you have an interest in supporting or becoming a partner with the Michigan PGA REACH Foundation, please contact us to learn more. We sincerely appreciate your support in advancing our mission to grow the game, empower our Veterans, and create a more inclusive future for golf.

Kevin Helm Michigan PGA Executive Director

TOGETHER TOGETHER

WE CAN WE CAN SHAPE SHAPE LIVES LIVES

WE CAN WE CAN CHANGE CHANGE LIVES LIVES & WE CAN & WE CAN SAVE SAVE LIVES LIVES

PGA REACH Michigan’s mission is to positively impact people’s lives through the game of golf.

Your contributions have fueled our programs and allowed us to reach new heights in fostering growth, inclusion, and community engagement. The growth we have experienced in 2024 would not have been possible without your belief in our vision.

Through our three core pillars, Youth, Military, and Inclusion, PGA REACH Michigan will continue to provide impactful programs to serve those in our community.

If you are interested in making a donation to support our Foundation, we ask that you make all checks payable to PGA REACH Michigan. P.O. Box 4399, East Lansing, MI 48826

michigan@pgahq.com michigan@pgahq.com