July 22, 2025

Golf with a purpose:

$110K Raised for Local Programming, One Hero Honored

Pictured: U.S. Army Specialist Daniel Scipioni center, surrounded by PGA REACH Colorado Foundation Trustees.
Pictured: U.S. Army Specialist Daniel Scipioni receiving his ceremonial key to his new home.

July 21, 2025 - Larkspur, Colo. - The 2025 REACH Invitational Fundraiser Golf Tournament concluded with resounding success, raising more than $110,000 to support the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation’s mission of positively impacting lives through youth development, military support, and inclusion programs across the Colorado PGA Section.


Held over two days at Lakewood Country Club in Lakewood, Colorado, and The Golf Club at Bear Dance in Larkspur, Colorado, this year’s event was a testament to the power of community, commitment, and compassion. The tournament brought together The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation Trustees, their guest, Colorado PGA of America Golf Professionals, and corporate partners from across the Colorado PGA Section, all united by a shared purpose to grow the game of golf and provide the opportunity to all to enjoy it.


A defining highlight of the event was the presentation of a mortgage-free home to former U.S. Army Specialist Daniel Scipioni, made possible through the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation’s partnership with Ken Eakes and the Military Warriors Support Foundation. This marks the twelfth home awarded by the foundation—a milestone that underscores the lasting impact of its ongoing military initiatives.


In a heartfelt addition, Impact Sports and Tuff Shed donated a custom-built golf simulator shed to accompany Daniel’s new home. Unveiled during the welcome reception at Lakewood Country Club on Tuesday, July 15th, the simulator serves as both a gift of gratitude and a therapeutic resource to help Daniel reintegrate into civilian life through the game of golf.


On Wednesday, July 16th, 30 teams of Colorado PGA of America Golf Professionals, Trustees and Amateur Golfers teed off in spirited competition at The Golf Club at Bear Dance, in a 3-2-1 Net Shamble event. The guests were greeted by numerous tee gifts, beverages from Tito’s and Jack Daniels, a special opening ceremony for Army Specialist Daniel Scipioni, breakfast, lunch and the beautiful grounds of The Golf Club at Bear Dance.


“We are deeply grateful to our Colorado PGA Golf Professionals, Foundation Trustees, Corporate Partners, and all participating players,” said the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation’s CEO/Executive Director Steven Bartkowski. “The support and dedication displayed throughout the REACH Invitational make our mission possible. These funds will allow us to continue delivering impactful programming and ensure that golf remains open, inclusive, and accessible to all.”


The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation remains committed to using the game of golf as a vehicle for positive change—and thanks to the generosity on display at the 2025 REACH Invitational, that mission is stronger than ever.
Pictured: the REACH Invitational winning team comprised of Jimmy Paradise, David Barton, Jim Paradise, and (not pictured), Roger Bailey.

Congratulations to the PGA REACH Invitational winning team, Team Colorado Renaissance Festival (pictured above), comprised of Jimmy Paradise, Jim Paradise, David Barton, and Roger Bailey! Shooting a spectacular 29-under-par in the 3-2-1 Net Shamble to take first place!


Finally, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our incredible 2025 REACH Invitational Partners and host clubs—your generosity and involvement were instrumental in making this event such a tremendous success.  Special recognition goes to: The Golf Club at Bear Dance, Lakewood Country Club, Tito’s Vodka, Jack Daniels, Ahead, UMB Bank, Hole Hecklers, Gateway Golf Group, Colorado Golf Association, Flyway, Thor Lundgren, El Pomar Foundation, Colorado Renaissance Festival, Tuff Shed, Impact Sports, Military Warriors Support Foundation, Plum Creek Golf Club, Colorado National Golf Club, Alpine Wine & Spirits, Mizuno, Motocaddy, Maui Jim, John & Sandi Andrew, Swing 365 Golf, AvidGolfer, Jones, Hole-in-One U.S.A., Stitch, Liquid Death, and Golf Status. Your support not only enhanced the tournament experience for participants but directly contributes to changing lives through the game of golf.


About the REACH Invitational: The REACH Invitational Fundraising Golf Tournament is an annual event dedicated to raising funds and awareness for programming that supports youth, military personnel, and inclusion initiatives. Through the generosity of participants and sponsors, the tournament aims to foster positive change and provide valuable resources to those in need.


About the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation: The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation is a non-profit organization focused on creating opportunities and support for youth, military veterans, and diverse communities through the game of golf. The foundation’s mission is to positively impact lives by leveraging the resources and network of the PGA of America.


Media Contact:

Steven Bartkowski

CEO/Executive Director

Colorado PGA

PGA REACH Colorado Foundation

sbartkowski@pgahq.com

https://reach.coloradopga.com/

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