June 20, 2024

Eight programs provided grant dollars to help positively impact the community!

Larkspur, CO - Since a group of Colorado PGA of America Golf Professionals created the vision of the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation (the charitable arm of the Colorado PGA Section) on July 15, 1996, the mission has always been to Positively Impact Lives Through the Game of Golf under three pillars (areas)- Youth, Military, and Inclusion. As the Foundation has grown year over year, and with the creation of the Growth of the Game/Pillar Grants, the 501c3 has been able to support the work of many Colorado PGA of America Professionals, golf facilities across the region, and allied associations that conduct programming directly in line with this same mission. 


This process to apply for Pillar Grants is open to all Colorado PGA of America Golf Professionals and organizations annually that use the game of golf to give back to the community. As this year's application process has passed, we are excited to announce the 2024 Pillar Grant Recipients. This year the Foundation Board of Directors is proud to say that they could support 100% of requests that came in. 

"We are excited to once again be able to use the resources of the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation to support our PGA of America Golf Professionals and Allied Associations who believe in the mission of positively impacting lives through the game of golf. The Colorado PGA Section and its Foundation are proud to continue to be a small part in helping to drive positive impact throughout Colorado, Eastern Wyoming, and South Dakota. This is the second year in a row in which 100% of applicants have been funded, and we hope to see continued growth of applicants in years to come," said Steven Bartkowski, PGA REACH Colorado Foundation CEO/Executive Director.


Thank you to these individuals and organizations that are going above and beyond to give back! The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation is so grateful as an organization to support this work being done right in our backyard financially. Please take a minute to learn about these inspiring programs below. 

  • Fearless Golf (Colorado Springs, CO)  - Led by Mark Kelbel, PGA, the mission of Fearless Golf is to use golf as a vehicle to equip at-risk youth for a successful transition to adulthood. Fearless Golf served 175 youth in 2023.
  • Just P.L.A.Y. (Denver, CO)- Led by Chad Kendall, PGA in partnership with Just P.L.A.Y where at-risk youth receive life-changing experiences through athletics and activities. 
  • PGA HOPE Down Range Events (Arvada, CO) - Visanu Tongwarin, PGA, and Rob Grall, PGA, will host “Down Range” events to keep Veterans engaged after completing a PGA HOPE Program. The program is meant to help ensure these Veterans continue to use golf for healing well after the 6-8 week clinics.
  • Patriots to Pros (Colorado Springs, CO ) - Mark Bacheldor, PGA, and Jon Husby, PGA, at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs will be rolling out the second year of Patriots to Pros helping military personnel start a career in golf. 
  • P51 Initiative (Monument CO)  - Matt Bohrer, PGA Associate helped to run a golf fundraiser at his facility for Life Scout Colin Saber who has an inspiring goal of honoring service members by building a memorial at the Town Hall in Monument, CO.
  • Junior Golf Equipment Library (Aurora, CO) - Ben Pennymon, PGA, who leads CommonGround Golf Course, is launching an equipment library that the community can use to access golf equipment at no cost. This program is aimed at removing one of the primary barriers that prohibit families of need from entering the game of golf.
  • And, lastly, the work that many of our Colorado PGA of America Golf Professionals are doing for The First Tee of Southern Colorado and First Tee of Green Valley Ranch by building life skills for youth. 


For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

Steven Bartkowski
CEO/Executive Director
Colorado PGA Section
PGA REACH Colorado Foundation
303.996.1593
sbartkowski@pgahq.com  


About the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation:

The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation works daily to support our over 900 Colorado PGA Professionals to make a difference in our local communities. Programming tries to ensure that regardless of your age or background, cost will never inhibit one’s involvement and enjoyment of the game of golf. The mission of the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation is to positively impact the lives of youth, military, and diverse populations by enabling access to PGA Professionals, PGA Sections, and the game of golf.


A $51K Milestone Sets 170 Veterans on a Path to HOPE

By Steven Bartowski • March 20, 2026
On behalf of the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation, thank you.

Robbins Manley Appointed as 29th Trustee of the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation

By Steven Bartowski • March 5, 2026

The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation Proudly Welcomes Back Dominic Karaba and Appoints First-Time Trustee Ron Budacz!

By Steven Bartowski • February 24, 2026
Larkspur, CO, February 24, 2026 – The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation is thrilled to announce the return of Dominic Karaba and the first-time appointment of Ron Budacz to its distinguished Trustee and Advisory Board. These two leaders bring a wealth of experience, passion, and strategic vision that will further elevate the Foundation's impact on the community. "We are beyond excited to welcome Dominic back to the team and to have Ron join us for the first time," said Steven Bartkowski, CEO/Executive Director of the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation. "Dominic’s deep history with our mission and Ron’s incredible record of global leadership and military service make them both incredible additions to this group. Their commitment to giving back through the game of golf will be a driving force as we continue to positively impact lives across the region."

GOLFTEC Partners with PGA of America REACH Foundation Colorado to Expand Access to Golf and Youth Development

By Steven Bartowski • February 19, 2026
About GOLFTEC Founded in 1995, GOLFTEC is the world leader in golf improvement, delivering more than 2 million lessons annually across 250+ locations worldwide . With over 1,000 expert Coaches , industry-leading motion analysis technology (OptiMotion), and personalized coaching programs, GOLFTEC provides the most complete golf improvement experience—anytime, anywhere. On average, GOLFTEC Students improve by 7 shots , proving that better golf is a journey best taken with the right guidance and support. GOLFTEC — Helping the World Play Better Golf About the PGA of America REACH Foundation Colorado PGA RE ACH Colorado is the charitable foundation of the Colorado PGA Section. Its mission is to positively impact lives through the game of golf, with a focus on three key pillars: Youth, Military, and Inclusion. Through innovative programs and community partnerships, PGA REACH Colorado works to try and ensure the game of golf is accessible, welcoming, and transformative for all.

PGA HOPE National Golf & Wellness Week Honors Veterans at Congressional Country Club

By Steven Bartowski • October 14, 2025
20 Veterans receive specialized golf and wellness training to become national PGA HOPE Ambassadors

PGA HOPE Colorado Cup Unites Military and Colorado PGA of America Golf Professionals at The Country Club of Colorado

By Steven Bartowski • October 8, 2025
Team Erie captures the 2025 PGA HOPE Colorado Cup title! (Pictured left to right): Leo Markworth (Marines), Tyler Mayhew (Air Force), Justin Limon, PGA (PGA HOPE Lead), Jordan Daniels (Navy), and Mark Staroscik (Marines),

PGA REACH Colorado Foundation Welcomes Jonathan “Jon” Stirling to Trustee Board

By Steven Bartowski • October 1, 2025

Sandoval Among 23 Others Nationwide as a PGA Works Fellow

By Steven Bartowski • September 4, 2025
Bryan is the Fifth PGA Works Fellow Since 2022 In the Colorado PGA

Colorado PGA & Hole Hecklers Team Up to Raise $10,000 for the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation

By Steven Bartowski • August 26, 2025
Larkspur, Colo . — The Colorado PGA is proud to celebrate its continued partnership with the Hole Hecklers, a one-of-a-kind golf entertainment group that blends comedy, camaraderie, and charitable giving to create unforgettable tournament experiences. This summer, the Hole Hecklers helped drive fundraising efforts for the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation, the charitable arm of the Colorado PGA dedicated to positively impacting lives through the game of golf. Through their on-course entertainment and creative fundraising initiatives, including a special opportunity involving a pair of donated Ryder Cup tickets, the Hole Hecklers helped generate an incredible $10,000 in support of the Foundation’s mission. Over the past three years, the Colorado PGA and the Hole Hecklers have partnered to bring laughter, energy, and purpose to tournaments across the Section and Foundation. Including many of our Section facilities through their member-guests and charity events. Their unique style of interactive comedy—set right on the course—creates memorable experiences for participants while raising critical funds for PGA REACH Colorado Foundation programs, which focus on Youth Development, Supporting Our Military, and Inclusion in golf. “We are thrilled with the impact that the Hole Hecklers have had on our fundraising efforts,” said Steven Bartkowski, CEO and Executive Director of the Colorado PGA and PGA REACH Colorado Foundation.“ Their ability to engage golfers in a fun and meaningful way has been a game-changer for our events, and the support they’ve generated is truly remarkable. The funds will go a long way in helping to support the numerous programs and initiatives that our Colorado PGA of America Golf Professionals conduct through our Foundation.” With this latest initiative, the Hole Hecklers have raised over $26,000 for the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation in the past three years. The funds raised will support the junior golf, military, and inclusive programs of The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation, which annually serves over 15,000 people through the game of golf. The Hole Hecklers’ involvement has grown each year, and the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation is proud to recognize them as an invaluable partner in advancing the Foundation’s mission. To learn how the Hole Hecklers can provide a fresh, fun, and unique approach to your club or corporate events and fundraising, please reach out to Shane Nance of the Hole Hecklers. Not only will your guests and members have some laughs, but you will be making an impact in your communities. Learn More About the Hole Hecklers Email Shane Nance of Hole Hecklers About the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation PGA REACH Colorado is the 501(c)(3) charitable foundation of the Colorado PGA Section. Its mission is to positively impact lives through the game of golf, with a focus on youth, military, and inclusion programming. About the Hole Hecklers The Hole Hecklers are a team of comedians who bring laughter to the links by providing live entertainment at golf tournaments across the country. With their signature style of playful on-course commentary, they turn each event into a fun, memorable experience while raising funds for charitable organizations.

Colorado PGA Professionals Give Back Through Teach Fore REACH

By Steven Bartowski • July 24, 2025
About the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation is a 501c3 public charity in Colorado that works daily to support our over 900 Colorado PGA of America Golf Professionals to make a positive difference in our local communities. Programming tries to ensure that regardless of your age or background, cost will not inhibit one’s involvement and enjoyment of the game of golf. The mission of the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation is to positively impact the lives of youth, military, and diverse populations by enabling access to PGA of America Golf Professionals, PGA Sections, and the game of golf. Media Contact: Steven Bartkowski CEO/Executive Director Colorado PGA Section PGA REACH Colorado Foundation sbartkowski@pgahq.com