As an American, Memorial Day is earmarked as a time to honor and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service of our country. Their bravery, courage, and love for our nation are unmatched. I’ve been working to consciously make time to note how grateful I am for the life I’ve built, and that I get to enjoy the freedoms that are often taken for granted because of the many people who have lost their lives, both literally and figuratively, to defend our country. I FIRMLY believe we can do more for each and every person in the service, previously in the service, and the families of those who died as a result of their service. When I see organizations stepping up to help families of fallen soldiers, it brings me a lot of hope.
There are many ways to help soldiers, their families, and to honor those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. The golf community has rallied around this cause area. Many golf-specific organizations have also recognized the healing power of the game and have dedicated efforts to support families of fallen soldiers. Here are several to explore, if interested (always audit on your own, don’t just take my word for it!):
Folds of Honor provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of America’s fallen and disabled service members. Their Patriot Golf Day initiative invites golfers to add an extra dollar to their green fees to fund these scholarships.
2. PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere)
PGA HOPE introduces golf to Veterans with disabilities to enhance their physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being. The program offers all Veterans the opportunity to learn the game in a supportive environment.
3. Military Warriors Support Foundation’s Skills4Life
In addition to awarding mortgage-free homes and providing financial mentorship, the Military Warriors Support Foundation offers recreational activities and family outings, including golf events, for wounded veterans and their families.
4. Salute Military Golf Association (SMGA)
The SMGA’s mission is to provide rehabilitative golf programs and family-inclusive golf opportunities for post-9/11 wounded war veterans in an effort to improve their quality of life.
Operation Game On provides golf lessons, specially fitted golf clubs, reduced green fees, and playing opportunities for combat-injured troops, helping them to pick up their lives where they left off.
6. Hope For The Warriors Outdoor Adventures
Hope For The Warriors offers golf events as part of their Outdoor Adventures program, designed to provide adaptive opportunities for wounded heroes to participate in sporting and recreational activities.
Each of these organizations uses golf as a powerful tool for healing and support, honoring the sacrifices made by our military and their families. As members of the golf community, I believe it is our privilege to support the efforts of trustworthy organizations in any way we can. I can’t speak to operational expenses of each organization on the list, though. Audit on your own, always! My intention is to communicate how golf can spreak hope.
So, as you tee off this Memorial Day, let each swing be a reminder of the sacrifices made for the love of our country. Let the green courses symbolize the freedom that we enjoy, a freedom safeguarded by those we honor today.
Have a safe and relaxing Memorial Day!
With gratitude,
Audrey