Impact 2024 Report
Greetings,
As we celebrate 20 remarkable years at the South Florida PGA Foundation, I am pleased to reflect on a year filled with successes and express my deepest gratitude to each of you who make our work possible.
Since the beginning, our mission has been to make a lasting impact in the south Florida community through the game of golf. With your steadfast support, we have grown, evolved, and impacted more than 15,000 lives.
This past year, we witnessed remarkable achievements due to your generosity Today, the number of individuals impacted annually by the Foundation’s outreach initiatives has increased by 25% compared to last year.
Looking forward, I am filled with optimism The Foundation is committed to enhancing and expanding our programs, empowering more individuals and families through opportunities in golf and beyond. We are excited about the future and the many lives we will continue to transform, all because of your invaluable support.
On behalf of the South Florida PGA Foundation, thank you for standing with us. Together, we will continue to use golf as an engine for good, making a meaningful impact for years to come.
Sincerely,
Tom Wildenhaus, PGA
South Florida PGA Foundation President
Tom
Board of Directors
PRESIDENT
PGA - Olde Florida Golf Club
SECRETARY
Don Meadows, PGA - Quail Valley Golf Club
DIRECTORS
VICE PRESIDENT
Lee Stroever, PGA - Emerald Dunes Club
TREASURER
Kevin Murphy, PGA - McArthur Golf Club
Steve Waugh, PGA - The Old Collier Golf Club
Justin Thompson, PGA - Sandglass Golf Club
Jim O’Connor
Wildenhaus,
2011 - FIRST HABITAT FOR HUMANITY BUILD - LEE COUNTY
2011 - SMILING FORE LIFE - PALM BEACH CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
2015 - FIRST PGA HOPE PROGRAM
2005 - JUNIOR GOLF EVENT
Mission
PGA of America Professionals dedicated to serving the south Florida community and changing lives through the game of golf.
YOUTH MILITARY
The South Florida PGA Foundation offers impa Junior Golf and the Golf & STEAM Summer Cam initiatives provide over 2,500 children annually personal growth, education, and mentorship, em and off the course. Through golf, the Foundatio next generation, promoting positive developme
The South Florida PGA Foundation is dedicated to supporting Veterans and service members through its flagship military program, PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere). PGA HOPE provides a safe and supportive environment, helps Veterans build confidence, reconnect w others, and experience healing through the game of golf. The Foundat has impacted more than 1,600 Veterans through PGA HOPE since 201
FAMILIES
The South Florida PGA Foundation’s focus on families shines through it partnership with Habitat for Humanity and the Smiling Fore Life program By partnering with Habitat for Humanity affiliates across south Florida, the Foundation has helped 11 families achieve the dream of homeownership. Through Smiling Fore Life, the Foundation brings joy t six local children’s healthcare facilities, using golf to brighten their days
The
Pillars
PGA HOPE
HELPING OUR PATRIOTS EVERYWHERE
The South Florida PGA HOPE program affords Veterans throughout the south Florida community an opportunity to learn the game of golf at zero cost to them.
Impact Story
JERRY IMPELLITTIERE, PGA, DRIVES HOPE FOR VETERANS THROUGH GOLF
Jerry Impellittiere, PGA Director of Instruction at Monarch Country Club, found more than just a career in golf; he found a calling.
Having grown up in the shadow of the United States Military Academy at West Point, where his father worked for nearly five decades, Impellittiere’s early experiences around those who served instilled deep-seated respect and a desire to give back to the military community.
“It is incredible the sacrifices these Veterans have put down for us and seeing their courage and fight despite what they have endured,” said Impellittiere.
Military continued to be a big part of Impellittiere’s life after he started his career as a PGA of America Professional.
“When I owned my driving range in New York, I employed several individuals from the nearby Stewart Air Force Base,” noted Impellittiere. “I would support Master Chief Bruce Lubkeman’s golf events and hold clinics for Officers and enlisted personnel.”
After operating his driving range for nearly 30 years, Impellittiere moved to south Florida. “When I transferred from the Met [Metropolitan PGA Section] to South Florida, I was looking for some way to get involved to help Veterans,” recalled Impellittiere.
It was then that Judy Alvarez, PGA, a pioneering figure in the PGA HOPE program in south Florida, introduced him to PGA HOPE.
“I immediately got involved, completed the adaptive golf and military cultural competency training, and started teaching classes as a certified instructor,” said Impellittiere.
Impellittiere’s involvement with PGA HOPE is more than just a professional commitment; it is a heartfelt mission.
"I love helping the Vets," Impellittiere often says, reflecting on his passion for teaching golf and his admiration for those who have served. "I never had to serve, so this is a way that I can give back to those who did."
In 2022, Impellittiere received the South Florida PGA Patriot Award. The Section presents the Patriot Award to a PGA of America Professional who personifies patriotism through the game of golf and demonstrates unwavering commitment and dedication to the men and women who have valiantly served and protected the United States of America.
Through his work with PGA HOPE, Impellittiere has encountered over 175 Veterans, each with harrowing tales of sacrifice and resilience.
“One person who has always stood out to me is Mary [Anderson-Kokell],” said Impellittiere. “She isolated herself for a long time, and yet a single golf ball lured her from seclusion, eventually leading her to become an ambassador for the program. Now she is changing the lives of other Veterans.”
Amid the inspiring stories of recovery and camaraderie, Impellittiere has also been confronted with the grim reality of Veteran suicide.
“The one thing that rips my heart out is the fact that 22 Veterans a day commit suicide,” stated Impellittiere. “This little white golf ball we all obsess about is a miracle in many Vets’ lives.”
PGA HOPE has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which enables direct referrals to the PGA HOPE program as a form of therapy.
Impellittiere’s journey with PGA HOPE and his dedication to serving Veterans showcases the profound impact that compassion, gratitude, and a little golf can have on the lives of those who have served.
“This whole program just humbles me, and that’s why I am so glad I am in a position where I can give back,” said Impellittiere.
This little white golf ball we all obsess about is a miracle in many Vets’ lives.
Junior Golf
The South Florida PGA Junior Golf program is dedicated to fostering the growth of the game among young golfers. With a membership of more than 1,200 junior golfers ages 6-18, we conduct around 100 tournaments annually. Our mission is to provide a first-class, affordable, enjoyable, and competitive experience for juniors of all skill levels.
BY THE NUMBERS:
Impact Story
OFF THE
GREEN WITH ORLA: CHASING BIG DREAMS ON THE TOPTRACER PREP TOUR
At just 10 years old, Brian Kelley is already making waves on the South Florida PGA Toptracer Prep Tour presented by Callaway, a journey that began when he was only 2 years old.
Brian’s passion for golf started early. He fondly remembers spending time at the driving range alongside his father in Kansas City, Missouri. Adopted at 3 weeks old, Brian has always been surrounded by love and support, which has helped fuel his passion for golf.
“I loved watching him hit balls, and I’d try to copy everything he did,” Brian recalled of his Dad. “Sometimes, I didn’t even want to leave!”
Adoption has played a huge role in Brian’s life with supportive parents who recognized and acted on his talents early.
After earning a spot in the 2019 Junior World Championship held at Torrey Pines Golf Course at the age of 5, the Kelley family made a significant decision that would shape Brian’s future. They traded in the snowy winters of Missouri for the year-round golf season in south Florida, all so Brian could pursue his dream of playing the game he loved. “They gave up their jobs and we moved to south Florida just so I could play golf all year round,” he said, reflecting on his parents’ support. “I'm so thankful to them for that.”
Once in Florida, Brian began competing in SFPGA Junior Tour events, starting with the Links Tour, which quickly became his favorite tournaments.
“We got to play on such amazing courses, and the [SFPGA] team running the tournaments was always so nice,” Brian said. “Plus, the PGA shirts, hats and gear were pretty awesome too.”
The tournaments also provided key learning experiences, especially when it came to reading greens on his own. “Our parents weren’t allowed to help us on the greens, so we had to figure it out ourselves,” Brian said. “I think that’s why I’ve become such a good putter.”
As his skills improved, Brian advanced to the Toptracer Prep Tour in 2023, where he embraced the challenge of carrying his own bag and handling the pressure just like the pros. His recent results speak for themselves — Brian has been a dominant force, going for a total sixunder-par in his last four tournaments and winning them all. He credits his success to the preparation he gained from the SFPGA Junior tournaments.
Brian’s talent extends beyond playing in tournaments. For the past four years, he has competed in the Drive, Chip and Putt events, advancing to regionals in 2022 and hopes to one day make it to the final round at Augusta National. His competitive spirit is just as strong in the classroom, where Brian maintains a 3.6 GPA and holds membership in the National Honor Society at Morningside Academy in Port St. Lucie.
Away from the course, Brian enjoys time with his family — whether it’s fishing, shooting hoops or heading to the beach. But his dream is clear:
“I want to play Division I golf in college and one day make it to the PGA TOUR.” With his work ethic and the continued support of the SFPGA, Brian is confident that those dreams are within reach. “The [SFPGA] tournaments are so much fun and really help kids like me get better,” he said. “If I keep practicing and playing, I know I can achieve my dreams.”
Brian’s adopted family has given him the love and opportunities needed to chase his dreams and has shown how love, dedication, and sacrifice can change the trajectory of a child’s life.
For countless children, adoption opens doors to a brighter future. Families like the Kelleys show just how impactful it can be. Brian’s journey from a toddler on the driving range to a top player on the Toptracer Prep Tour is testament to his perseverance, overcoming the challenges he’s faced.
With his focus and determination, Brian is well on his way to achieving his dreams!
If I keep practicing and playing, I know I can achieve my dreams.
SmilingForeLife
SPREADING JOY THROUGH GOLF
Launched in 2010, Smiling Fore Life offers children and families facing hardships a unique outlet through the game of golf. The program is designed to bring joy and distraction to young patients during difficult times.
Impact Story
DAVE PESACOV, PGA, GIVES BACK THROUGH SMILING FORE LIFE PROGRAM
“These kids have enough bad things going on in their lives, so if I can just get them smiling, then I’ve done my job ”
Dave Pesacov, PGA Teaching Professional, is passionate about giving back through golf and has played an integral role in the South Florida PGA Foundation through the Smiling Fore Life program
Developed in 2010, Smiling Fore Life aims to provide an outlet through the game of golf for children and families experiencing hardships
“I first became involved in 2012,” Pesacov recalled “As a golf professional, I would take the kids outside and do basic putting and chipping with SNAG equipment. I immediately loved the idea, and the people made it an easy fit ”
Every Thursday afternoon, Pesacov leads the program at Quantum House, a healthcare facility where families come to stay while their children undergo treatment for a critical illness or injury.
The most rewarding part for me is the continuity with the kids,” explained Pesacov. “Most of the kids that I come into contact with have lifelong disabilities that require them to make return visits and spend extended time at the facility. You get to know the families, so it becomes more personal ”
Smiling Fore Life is offered at six locations across south Florida, including Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, Quantum House, Palm Beach Children’s Hospital, and Valerie’s House.
“I enjoy seeing the kids return years later as healthy teenagers,” said Pesacov “They often attribute their love for the game to Smiling Fore Life ”
The impact of this program is felt in Pesacov’s relationship with Jake Dering, a Quantum House patient.
Jake was born with a rare genetic condition called otopalatodigital syndrome type 2 (also known as OPD) and has undergone over 30 surgeries throughout his life
“When I met Jake, he could barely get out of his wheelchair, but he really took to golf,” Pesacov recalled. “One day, Jake said, ‘I am going to be a golfer just like you ’”
As Jake improved and his body got stronger, he eventually became skilled enough to make his high school golf team
“If these programs can help even one kid like Jake get to a better place, then it is all worth it,” said Pesacov.
After more than a decade of involvement, Pesacov encourages other PGA Members to get involved
“These programs are fun, have a purpose, and are important to people. These children are in need of positivity in their lives.”
Pesacov's story is a testament to Smiling Fore Life's impact on families and PGA Members alike
They often attribute their love for the game to Smiling Fore Life.
Golf&STEAMCamp
In June, the South Florida PGA Foundation completed its 4th annual Golf & STEAM summer camp in Belle Glade.
This year’s camp had a record attendance of over 50 students each day and featured a field trip to The Park to hear career testimonies from industry leaders.
Camp activities included golf instruction from PGA of America Professionals, health and wellness training, as well as STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Mathematics) education.
INSIDE THE ROPES
Past camp participants and members of the Glades Central High School boys' and girls' golf teams visited the Cognizant Classic Pro-Am for the third consecutive year.
Throughout the day, the students had the opportunity to meet PGA TOUR players Kevin Kisner and Shane Lowry as they explored the renowned Bear Trap, adding memorable experiences to their golf journey.
Fundraising Events
To fund the impactful programs administered by the South Florida PGA Foundation, support from local golf facilities, corporations, professionals, and donors is essential. The Foundation hosts six annual fundraising events to generate awareness for its mission to impact lives through golf. This year’s events have been remarkably successful, raising over $750,000 to support youth, military, and family-focused programs. Thanks to your generosity, the Foundation can continue making a lasting difference across south Florida.
Impact Story
THE MIRASOL FUN GROUP’S IMPACT ON YOUTH AND GOLF IN SOUTH FLORIDA
Founded on the basis of Fun, The Mirasol Fun Group has made golf more affordable and accessible for more than 100 South Florida PGA Junior Tour members.
What began more than 20 years ago as a group of members at The Country Club at Mirasol who banded together to secure tee times, play golf and establish new relationships, The Fun Group has evolved into much more
Through its partnership with the South Florida PGA Foundation, The Fun Group established the Mirasol Assistance Fund in 2009 to serve the community through golf
“When I first met Meredith Schuler [SFPGA Assistant Executive Director] and heard the story of the Foundation, I was overwhelmed by the need to do something, and our organization, The Fun Group, had funds that we felt could be beneficial to the Foundation,” recalled Arthur Rosen, founding member of The Fun Group
With the support of the SFPGA Foundation, the Mirasol Assistance Fund aims to financially support junior golfers in south Florida who have a desire to participate in the game of golf, but don’t have the means to do so.
Juniors apply for the scholarship annually, and, if approved, receive a reduced entry fee into SFPGA Junior Tour, presented by Callaway and Toptracer tournaments. The Fun Group funds cover the remaining amount of the player's entry.
In its first year, the Mirasol Assistance Fund collected $3,500 to support nine Junior Tour members with 30 tournament entries
“We donate small sums,” explained Rosen. “But they add up and make an impact in the end.”
Since the inception of the Mirasol Assistance Fund, The Fun Group has donated nearly $100,000 to the SFPGA Foundation, supporting over 100 Junior Tour members to play in more than 340 events
Of the Junior Tour members that the Assistance Fund has helped, several have gone on to play golf at the collegiate level, a dream that might not have been possible without the generosity of Rosen, along with additional founding Fun Group partners Larry Feit, Matt and Dee Simpson
As The Fun Group celebrates its 20th season, its charitable support continues to impact children and junior golf The Fun Group is a shining example of how community, compassion and the love of golf can come together to create lasting change
When I first... heard the story of the Foundation, I was overwhelmed by the need to do something.
Thank You FOR
HELPING US CARRY OUT OUR MISSION!
CORPORATE
Lilly Pulitzer Waterside
Tee it Up For the Troops
LPGA Amateur Golf Association Palm Beach
PARTNERS
Florida Junior Golf Council
Heritage Creations
Keiser University
The First Tee of Gold Coast
The Fun Group at Mirasol
FACILITIES
Foxfire Golf & Country Club
Olde Florida Golf Club
Pine Tree Golf Club
St. Andrews Country Club
The Club at Admirals Cove
Vineyards Country Club
PGA MEMBERS
Bo Preston, PGA
Bob Radunz, PGA
John Nelson, PGA
Roger Kennedy Jr., PGA
MIRASOL FUN GROUP
Al Marchitto
Alan Cosner
Arnold Peskin
Arthur Rosen
Barry Breslau
Bill Lasky
Bob Shapiro
Charles Silberman
David Bartos
Donald Provenzano
Douglas Hamilton
Elliot Magun
Frank Pappacoda
Fred Dinerstein
Gregory Masone
Harmon Katz
Harold Oertell
Harvey Morgan
Henry Lieberman
Howard Soep
Jack Petcove
James Davis
Jan Fisher
Jan Moskowitz
Jerry Block
Jerry Colvin
Joe Grimaldi
Joel Levy
Joel Sherman
Jose Reynal
Joseph Crosson
Joseph Fiscella
Judy Davis
Larry Clofine
Larry Feit
Larry Robinson
Larry Shapiro
Lawrence Bayes
Lawrence Dolin
Lee Kaswiner
Les Carron
Lloyd Elkowitz
Malcolm Wattman
Marvin Solomon
Micha Oren
Michael Rosenstock
Michael Siegel
Mike Doyle
Norman Silvers
Paul Bresler
Philip Politziner
Richard Jaffe
Robert Lepre
Ronald Binday
Ronald Bluestein
Ronald Orleans
Steve Jaffe
Steven Rosenberg
Thee Chumnanvech
William O'Shea
William Schecter
GOLF MARATHONS
Alan Dunbar
B E Sivertsen
Charles Albright
Christine Wilson
Daniel Carpenter
Dawn & David Weber
Don Linsenmann
Donna Carter
Elizabeth Donovan
Frank Romeo
Fred Couples
Gail Reifsnyder
Gerard Malloy
Jim Raimondo
John & Valerie Klosterman
Joseph DiChiacchio
Juan Zighelboim
Karen Iannuzzi
Keith Martinet
Les Kroll
Loyd & Cynthia Garrison
Luann Boots
Margaret Webb
Marty Komsa
Michael Callanan
Michael Vickers
Mimi Lerner Charitable Fund
Nancy Brown
Paul Danis
Paul Wenclawiak
Peter Knobloch
R Douglas Ezzell
Ralph Howe
Ray Buonomo
Richard A Colletti
Robert Claire
Robert Pollock
Robert Thill
Rusty Amarante
William Farber
PUBLIC
Arline Frish
Ben Starling III
Blaine Metzger
Brian Delaney
Chester Geveda
Christopher Murtaugh
CK & Laura Baxter Foundation
Daniel Sullivan
David Kover
David Preston
Douglas Miller
Fred Baldwin
Gabriel Silverberg
Gail Sobolewski
Gina Nelson
Gloria Rogers
Harold Oertell
Hugh Van Brimer
Hunter Hallowell
James Kostek
Joe & Nancy Wertheim
John & Sallie Dobra
John Cook
John Mannebach
John Rothberg
John Sennett
John Wade
Judith Boucher
Judson Fowler
Julio Alonso
Kenneth Kinsey Family Foundation
Lawrence Ardito
Leslie Eichen
Luis Rousseau
Martin Family Foundation
Martin Sinnott
Matthew Sheperd
Michael Tylwalk
Neal Golding
Newman & Tempkins Professional Assoc.
Nowak Family Foundation
Patrick McNally
Peter Brochhausen
Peter Isen
Phillip Mathias
Pittsburgh Foundation
Ray Kubis
Renaissance Charitable Foundation
Rhonda Graves
Richard and Ellen Rosenblum Foundation
Richard Ridder
Rob Torrington
Rose Marina
Russell Mills
S.F. Dunlap
Sheldon Fechtor
Sheryl & Raymond McGrath
Steven & Kim Nichols
Steven Melman
Stuart Kipnes
The Cost Of Our Freedom Foundation
The Gallatin Foundation
The Scott & Lynn Bayman Family Fund
Thomas Burns
Vanessa Georgescu
VJ Weinstein
W. Douglas Krebs
William Barton
William Murphy
HOSTS
BallenIsles Country Club
Boca Raton Golf & Raquet Club
Boca West Country Club
Cape Royal Golf Club
Coral Creek Club
Country Club of Coral Springs
Crandon Golf Academy
Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne
Cypress Lake Golf Club
Eagle Trace Golf Club
Eaglewood Country Club
Fairwinds Golf Course
Hammock Creek Golf Club
Heritage Palms Golf & Country Club
Hobe Sound Golf Club
Hollybrook Golf & Tennis Club
Hunter's Run Golf & Raquet Club
Indian Spring Country Club
Jupiter Dunes Golf Club
Keiser University College of Golf
Lost Lake Golf Club
Martin Downs Golf & Country Club
Monarch Country Club
Normandy Shores Golf Course
Old Corkscrew Golf Club
Osprey Point Golf Course
Palm Aire Country Club
Palm Beach Par 3
PGA Golf Club
PGA National Resort & Spa
Pointe West Country Club
Royal Palm Country Club
Sailfish Sands Golf Course
Sandridge Golf Club
Santa Lucia River Club
Shell Point Golf Club
Southwinds Golf Course
Stonebridge Golf & Country Club
The Bear's Club
The Cape Club
The Club at Mediterra
The Landings Yacht, Golf & Tennis Club
The Links at Boynton Beach
The Nest at Sandhill Crane
The Park
TwinEagles Club
Vineyards Country Club
West Bay Club
Worthington Country Club
*As of November 6, 2024
