PGA HOPE: USING GOLF AS THERAPY FOR VETERANS


By bblouin
PGA Hope is partnering with PGA HOPE to assist Veterans at becoming more active and learn the game of golf.

Sports are a great way to stay in shape both mentally and physically; however, not all of them are the same. At a certain age, depending on your health and willingness to take risks, putting on the pads for the gridiron simply becomes a bad decision. However, golf is known far and wide to be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. This makes it the perfect outlet for Veterans and their families. The PGA HOPE initiative helps bolster the sport within the military community through coaching, events, and so much more.

What Is PGA HOPE?

PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) is a program organized by the nonprofit PGA of America REACH Foundation that works to help Veterans, military members, and others gain access to professional players, coaches, and courses. The goal of the 6 to 8-week program is to help all who participate improve their well-being by providing a social setting focused on the game of golf as a mental and physical release. These events are free for Vets and are operated by pros who are trained in helping reach the military community. This includes those with adaptive needs. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) collaborates with the PGA to provide therapy, and together, the groups select viable courses for these events. In 2024 alone, more than 17,000 Vets and service members will receive instruction in every state, through 500+ programs, delivered by 3,000+ professionals at PGA HOPE locations.

PGA National Day of HOPE

The program is widespread; however, PGA REACH understands the importance of honoring the sacrifice of those who served our nation. Every Veterans Day is recognized as the PGA National Day of HOPE, which acts as a time to spread awareness about the initiative and also say thanks to our nation’s heroes. One of the biggest goals for the PGA HOPE Foundation is to eliminate Veteran suicide by using golf as a means to provide therapy to those suffering from negative mental health.

How to Sign up for PGA HOPE

Priding itself on being a place for everyone, PGA HOPE registration is simple and can be done in just a few clicks. Here’s how to get started:

Register Online

Since there are programs throughout the United States starting at different times, it’s important to register for the right event near you. Luckily, you can do so with just a few clicks by registering online. Keep in mind that if you can’t find the event you’re looking for, it’s likely filled already or not yet open for registration. To learn more about each location or to join the waitlist, use the map below:

Undergoing Training

Once you’ve registered for your event and been accepted, you’ll start training with the program. There are several different types of training, including the following:

  • PGA professionals provide rehab for Veterans looking to work through physical and emotional disabilities.
  • New to golf? Vets can enjoy a one-day introductory clinic to get their feel for the game.
  • Through the PGA HOPE Program, Vets enjoy up to 8 weeks of instructional golf, accessing courses with Pros. If adaptive equipment is needed, it can be provided.

Graduation

This can mean different things depending on your location and program, but the final step of your experience is the PGA HOPE graduation. Once you finish your first session, you’ll receive your PGA HOPE benefit card to help you receive perks along with food, giveaways, and of course, plenty of golf.

How Do You Use the PGA HOPE Card?

Once you graduate, you receive your card and benefits that provide you with the opportunity to play in certain leagues. You should expect discounts on green fees and even more affordable equipment. What’s available may vary from pro shop to pro shop and course to course. You’ll need to speak with each location before you shop to better understand how your card can be used. The benefits of lowering fees for Veterans are a welcomed perk. Lastly, the long-lasting impact PGA HOPE continues to have on the lives of the military community is the real hole-in-one! Suggested reads:


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