Primary beneficiary is “Golf In Schools” program that impacts more than 110,000 boys & girls at 200+ schools in New Jersey; Norman E. Lewis honored with Chairman’s Award
PISCATAWAY, N.J., August 15, 2014…The New Jersey Golf Foundation (NJGF), the charitable arm of the New Jersey Section, PGA of America (NJPGA), today announced that the 8th Annual New Jersey Golf Foundation Golf Classic, the signature event on the foundation’s calendar, raised more than $200,000 to support youth golf programming throughout the Garden State. Sponsored by Wells Fargo, the NJGF Golf Classic, which took place at Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield Township, N.J., on Monday, August 4, 2014, hosted 244 participants who came together in support of the foundation’s breadth of programs. Additionally, Norman E. Lewis, Senior Vice President at Wells Fargo Insurance Services, Inc., was presented with the 2014 Chairman’s Award, given annually to an individual who works tirelessly behind the scenes to support the NJGF’s programs and initiatives.
The NJGF, which was created to positively impact lives and communities through the game of golf, offers dynamic programs where individuals from all backgrounds, including youth, special needs, military and women, can experience the game of golf in a welcoming environment. The primary beneficiary of the August 4 event is “Golf In Schools,” an initiative that introduces the game of golf to children by incorporating the sport into the physical education curriculum at elementary and middle schools, under the guidance of PGA Professionals. Backed by the generous contributions from NJGF supporters, an astounding 110,000 children (K-8th grade) at more than 200 schools participate in the program, which continues to grow every year throughout New Jersey. Additional beneficiaries include Boys & Girls Clubs of America, YMCA programs, Special Olympics, First Tee programs throughout New Jersey, the Els For Autism Foundation, and educational scholarships.
One of the event highlights was an interactive golf clinic for the Special Olympics New Jersey YAP (Young Athlete Program), as PGA Professionals and professional golfer Kevin Foley – a New Jersey native now competing on the PGA TOUR – introduced a group of boys and girls ages 4-12 to the game of golf.
“We are so grateful for the support we receive each year from our friends, colleagues and corporate partners at the annual New Jersey Golf Foundation Golf Classic,” said Chris Hunt, Executive Director, New Jersey Golf Foundation. “This year was extra special as we hosted the amazing families of the Special Olympics New Jersey Young Athlete Program. It was truly inspiring and rewarding to see these young athletes experience and enjoy the game of golf.”
For more information on the New Jersey Golf Foundation, please visit www.njgolffoundation.com or call 732-465-1212.
About The New Jersey Golf Foundation
The New Jersey Golf Foundation (NJGF) was created by the NJPGA in 2004 to positively impact lives and communities through the game of golf. The NJGF is committed to creating and offering programs where individuals from all backgrounds have an opportunity to access and experience the game. The NJGF “Golf In Schools” Program is run annually at more than 200 schools, impacting more than 110,000 boys and girls (K-8) throughout New Jersey. For more information, visit www.njgolffoundation.com.
Contact:
Courtney Ennis (courtney@mastrocomm.com)
Mastro Communications, Inc. @ 732-469-5700
