(Photo: Mick Haupt)
At the annual convention held from June 28-30, in Visalia, CA, The American Legion Department of California passed a key resolution supporting PGA HOPE, or PGA Helping Our Patriots Everywhere.
Submitted by Commander Jeff Sheibels of American Legion Post 599, this resolution demonstrates The Legion’s commitment to helping Veterans assimilate back into their community through the therapeutic power of golf.
Improving Veterans’ Lives Through Golf
PGA HOPE is the flagship military program of PGA REACH, the charitable foundation of the PGA of America. Veterans and Military are introduced to golf with the goal of improving their overall physical, mental, social, and emotional health. The program offers a developmental 6-8 week curriculum led by PGA Professionals trained in adaptive golf and military cultural competency. Funded by PGA REACH and supported by PGA Section Foundations, the program is free for all Veterans.
PGA HOPE and the VA have a Memorandum of Understanding that allows for direct referrals to the program.
Highlights of Resolution No. 2024-012
The resolution acknowledges the principles of Americanism, community service, and Veteran support that are central to the American Legion’s mission. Key points include:
Positive Impact
Acknowledges the beneficial effects of recreational activities like golf on Veterans’ rehabilitation and reintegration into civilian life.
Support for PGA HOPE
Fully endorses PGA HOPE’s mission to improve Veterans’ lives through golf.
Active Participation
Encourages Legion members to promote and participate in local PGA HOPE events, volunteering their time and resources.
Collaboration
Calls for cooperation between The American Legion and PGA Professionals to enhance Veterans’ well-being.
Commitment to Veterans
Passing this resolution demonstrates The American Legion Department of California’s dedication to assist initiatives benefiting Veterans. The resolution encourages all members to actively engage in promoting and expanding the reach of PGA HOPE, fostering a sense of camaraderie and community among Veterans. This collaboration will create more opportunities for Veterans to experience the therapeutic benefits of golf, aiding in their overall health and wellness.
The American Legion Department of California firmly believes that PGA HOPE is a worthy program deserving of strong support and participation from all members. By working together, they hope to expand and publicize the program, guaranteeing that Veterans around the country will continue to gain from it.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
I wholeheartedly supported this Resolution and working with Commander Sheibels was a pleasure. We have mutual admiration for the program and were adamant about saying,
“Thank You” to the PGA and the HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) program. I recently completed the program and cannot share my gratitude enough for the Staff and Professional Volunteers that donate so much of their time and energy to make this program so beneficial to Veterans with all levels of golf experience. Kudos again and let’s get this Resolution into our National office and hopefully before the National Convention in New Orleans this summer. Respectfully Eric W Measles