PGA REACH Colorado Foundation Honors Wounded Hero with its 12th Sponsored Mortgage-Free Home

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/

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

New Trustee, Matt Stewart, Welcomed to PGA REACH Colorado

By Steven Bartkowski • July 13, 2025

New Trustee, Albert Duncan, Welcomed to PGA REACH Colorado

By Steven Bartowski • May 28, 2025
Welcome, Albert Duncan!

PGA HOPE Colorado Set to Compete in the 2025 Secretary’s Cup

By Steven Bartowski • March 20, 2025
PGA HOPE Colorado (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) has achieved a momentous milestone—securing a coveted spot in the 2025 PGA HOPE Secretary’s Cup. This prestigious national tournament, held in conjunction with the PGA Championship, celebrates the transformative power of golf in the lives of U.S. military veterans and active duty through PGA HOPE. The Colorado team’s selection is a testament to their dedication, perseverance, and the strength of the Colorado Section’s PGA HOPE program. PGA HOPE is a flagship initiative of the PGA of America and the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation, designed to introduce golf to veterans and active-duty military personnel as a way to enhance their physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. The program provides free adaptive golf instruction to veterans, creating an environment that fosters inclusion, camaraderie, and rehabilitation. For many participants, it’s not just about learning the game—it’s about finding a supportive community and building confidence to overcome personal challenges. Meet the PGA HOPE Colorado Team The Colorado team consists of five veterans from various branches of the United States military, all of whom earned their place by winning the 2024 PGA HOPE Colorado Cup. Representing the Section at this national event will be: Jordan LeBlanc, PGA (Army Veteran) – Serving as the team leader, Jordan LeBlanc has played a vital role in the PGA HOPE program since 2018. As a PGA Professional, and National PGA HOPE Trainer, he has trained and certified over 300 PGA Professionals across 15 different sections in the past three years. His leadership and commitment to veteran golf instruction have made a lasting impact. Jeremiah James (Army Veteran) – Despite severe shoulder, back, and neck injuries sustained during service, Jeremiah remains passionate about golf. His ability to adapt and compete serves as an inspiration, demonstrating how perseverance can overcome physical challenges. Erich Posdzich (Marine Corps Veteran) – For Erich, golf provides a sense of belonging and community, helping to replace the camaraderie often missed after military service. His dedication to the game reflects his passion for staying connected and engaged. Joshua Lee (Navy Veteran) – Golf has been an essential tool for Joshua in improving his mental well-being. After completing a mental health program, he turned to the sport as a therapeutic outlet. The Secretary’s Cup presents an opportunity for him to affirm his progress and play alongside supportive teammates. Paul Garcia (Air Force Veteran) – Transitioning from military to civilian life was a challenge for Paul, but he found purpose and structure in golf. His methodical approach to the game has helped him regain focus and stability, proving that golf is more than just a sport—it’s a lifeline.

New Trustee, Josh Knipp, Welcomed to PGA REACH Colorado

By Steven Bartowski • March 4, 2025
Welcome, Josh Knipp!

New Trustee, Trevor Miller, Welcomed to PGA REACH Colorado

By Steven Bartowski • February 3, 2025
Welcome, Trevor Miller!

City of Westminster Golf Courses Protecting the Future of the Game

By Steven Bartowski • January 13, 2025
Colorado PGA of America Golf Professionals Joe Carlton and Brian Carlson are driving sustainability and creating an impact on their community through golf

New Trustee Welcomed to PGA REACH Colorado

By Steven Bartkowski • November 22, 2024
Welcome, Matt Hanson!

PGA of America Hosts PGA HOPE National Golf & Wellness Week – Honoring Veterans at Congressional Country Club, Including 4th PGA HOPE Ambassador from the Colorado Section, Zechariah Owens

By Steven Bartowski • October 22, 2024
Zec Recently Returned Home from the PGA HOPE National Golf and Wellness October 10-14 at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Maryland

PGA of America REACH Foundation Announces 
2024 Class of PGA WORKS Fellows

By Steven Bartowski • October 16, 2024
27 Recent College And University Graduates From Diverse Backgrounds Get Their First Opportunities To Enter The Golf Industry