NJGF Golf Classic Raises $220,000

The New Jersey Golf Foundation (NJGF), the charitable arm of the New Jersey Section, PGA of America (NJPGA), today announced that the 10th Annual NJGF Golf Classic raised a record $220,000 to support dynamic golf programming for youth, military and individuals with special needs. The NJGF Golf Classic, the signature event on the Foundation's annual calendar was held on August 15th at famed Baltusrol Golf Club, host venue of the 2016 PGA Championship. Highlighting the day, Pamela Liebman, President & CEO of The Corcoran Group, a leading New York City real estate firm, was presented with the NJGF's 2016 Chairman's Award, given annually to an individual who works tirelessly behind the scenes to support the NJGF's programs and initiatives.

Additionally, a Special Olympics NJ-YAP Clinic (Young Athletes Program) hosted by NJPGA Professionals introduced the game of golf to a group of boys and girls ages 3-7. The NJGF was created in 2004 to positively impact lives and communities through the game of golf, with a focus on 3 core pillars, youth, military and special needs. Under the guidance of PGA Professionals, programming is designed to provide individuals from all backgrounds an opportunity to experience the game of golf in a welcoming environment. The primary beneficiary of the 2016 event is "Golf In Schools," an initiative that introduces the game of golf to children (K-8) by incorporating the sport into the physical education curriculum at elementary and middle schools throughout the state. New Jersey is home to one of the most prolific Golf In Schools programs in the country impacting more than 110,000 boys and girls at more than 200 schools. "What a fantastic day at Baltusrol GC as we raised a record $220,000 to support programming while honoring Pam Liebman, a devoted supporter of our cause," said Chris Hunt, Executive Director, New Jersey Golf Foundation. "Thanks to the incredible support and generous contributions from our friends and partners we continue to make a difference in so many lives." Additional programs under the youth and special needs pillar that will benefit from the NJGF Classic include, PGA Junior League, Boys & Girls Clubs, Special Olympics NJ and Els For Autism, among others. Moreover, contributions from this event will be used to further support the growth of PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) the NJGF's flagship military program that introduces golf to Veterans with disabilities in order to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being. Founded in 2004, the NJGF is the charitable arm of the New Jersey PGA Section. With a focus on 3 core pillars (youth, military, special needs), the NJGF is committed to impacting lives and communities through the game of golf. Led by PGA Professionals, the NJGF hosts a dynamic line-up of programming that provides access for individuals from all backgrounds to experience the game of golf. For more information, visit www.njgolffoundation.org.