General

New Jersey Golf Foundation Golf Classic Raises Record Setting $218,000 to Benefit Youth Golf Programming Throughout Garden State

Primary Beneficiary is “Golf In Schools” Program that Impacts More than 110,000 Boys & Girls at 200+ Schools in New Jersey; Dean T. Criares Honored with Chairman’s Award

 PISCATAWAY, N.J., September 6, 2013…The New Jersey Golf Foundation (NJGF), the charitable arm of the New Jersey Section, PGA of America (NJPGA), today announced that the 7th Annual New Jersey Golf Foundation Golf Classic, the signature event on the Foundation’s calendar, raised more than $218,000 to support youth golf programming throughout the Garden State. The NJGF Golf Classic, which took place at Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield Township, N.J., on Monday, August 5, 2013, hosted nearly 300 participants who came together in support of the Foundation’s breadth of programs. Additionally, Dean T. Criares, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Drew University and a partner at Sound Harbor Partners, was presented with The 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 5 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 and educational scholarships.

“I want to recognize all of our friends, partners and supporters for setting a new standard and making the 7th Annual NJGF Golf Classic the most memorable since inception,” said Chris Hunt, Executive Director, New Jersey Golf Foundation. “The values learned though golf are immeasurable and the NJGF will continue to work tirelessly to support youth golf programming throughout the state, while ensuring that boys and girls from all backgrounds have an opportunity to experience the great game.”

 NJGF Golf Classic Raises $218,000 to Support Youth Golf Programs…Add One

Added Hunt, “With more than 110,000 boys and girls participating in golf through their physical education classes, New Jersey’s “Golf In Schools” program is the most advanced in the country. Thanks to the generous contributions from so many individuals and corporations, we are that much closer to reaching our goal of introducing the game to every child in New Jersey.”

 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.