Billy Payne, Chairman of Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament, announced today a new program that enables Augusta National employees to designate $1,000 each in Club charitable contributions to a local organization that they select.
“Our employees are an integral part of this organization and they are committed to this community,” Payne said. “This new initiative recognizes their hard work and dedication and I’m certain the money will be donated wisely.”
In addition, Payne announced that the Masters would continue its practice of making other significant contributions to worthwhile causes. This year approximately $3.4 million will be distributed. Over the last 11 years the Masters has made contributions in excess of $35.8 million.
The Community Foundation for the CSRA will receive a gift of $1.25 million. The sum includes the ANGC employee-designated funds and $250,000 to help construct a new Fisher House at Augusta’s uptown VA Medical Center. Fisher House provides temporary lodging to members of the Armed Services, veterans and their families during a medical crisis. Since 1997, The Community Foundation, an Augusta-based foundation that evaluates then selects worthwhile Augusta area charities, has received nearly $14 million from the Masters.
“Once again The Community Foundation and the Augusta region are enthusiastically appreciative of another altruistic gift from Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament,” said Lee Smith, President and CEO of The Community Foundation. “A vast number of men, women and children in the six counties contiguous to Augusta have benefited, and continue to benefit, from the goodness and the generosity of Augusta National and the Masters Tournament.
“The Foundation is also delighted to have recently established the Augusta National Employee Giving Fund where Augusta National employees will have the opportunity to give to her or his favorite charity within the same six county region. Including employees in their philanthropy makes yet another strong statement about Augusta National.”
The First Tee youth development program, which teaches character education through the game of golf to young people of all backgrounds, will receive $1 million for its program. Since 1998, the Masters has given over $11 million to the organization.
Others receiving significant contributions are the major golf organizations and The First Tee of Augusta.
“Our employee contributions and our gifts, both in and outside of Augusta, will be used to positively affect the lives of many people in need,” Payne said. “We hope to grow the game globally and this is an example of the wonderful things golf can do.”
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