The 2025 PGA HOPE program conducted by the Southwest PGA Foundation has kicked off in fine fashion.
PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) introduces and teaches golf to Veterans and Active Duty Military to improve their physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being. Led by PGA of America Golf Professionals, the program comprises a comprehensive 6-week curriculum. Notably, all programs are provided at no cost to all participating Veterans.
PGA HOPE has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which facilitates direct referrals to the PGA HOPE program as a form of therapy.
PGA HOPE Southwest serves as a cornerstone of the Southwest PGA Foundation. The program will be conducted at 24 facilities across the State of Arizona and Clark County, Nevada, and will be led by over 30 PGA/LPGA professionals. The 60 sessions scheduled for 2025 represent one of the largest programs in the PGA of America. Beyond providing golf instruction, PGA HOPE Southwest embodies a holistic health and wellness program that fosters connections between professionals and veterans through a journey of integration.
PGA/LPGA professionals who conduct the program are Certified PGA HOPE instructors. Each is required to complete a level of training and education that allow them to teach the program. There are currently over 200 professionals in the Southwest Section PGA certified to conduct PGA HOPE programming.
“PGA HOPE has been a lifeline for Army Veteran Tommy Norris. After leaving military service, my life felt adrift. I struggled to focus and find purpose in civilian life. Although I had played sports as a child, golf wasn’t my forte. One day, a friend invited me to join him at the golf course. It was more challenging than I anticipated. Initially, the prospect didn’t ignite my interest. I suppose I had fallen into a state of unmotivation and depression. However, my friend convinced me to sign up for the program. Once I did, I realized it was a long-term commitment. Golf is an incredible game. The coaches and fellow Veterans I’ve met in Las Vegas have been exceptional. The entire experience has given me a sense of purpose and a means to overcome my internal challenges. It truly brought me back from the darkest depths of my life.”
Tommy’s story is just one of many we’ve heard. All Veterans and active-duty military personnel are welcome to participate in the program. Program details, including sites, dates, and facilities, are available on the Southwest PGA Foundation website at www.swspgafoundation.org.
