August 2, 2024

PGA REACH Colorado Foundation Honors Wounded Hero with Mortgage-Free Home

Larkspur, CO — July 31, 2024 — The 2024 REACH Invitational Fundraiser Golf Tournament has proudly concluded with a remarkable achievement, raising over $128,000 to bolster programming and initiatives that support youth, military personnel, and inclusion efforts. Hosted at The Golf Club at Bear Dance in Larkspur, Colorado, the event showcased a powerful commitment to community support and charitable giving, drawing participants and supporters from across the region.



This, the 11th Annual REACH Invitational, was conducted by the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation, the charitable arm of the Colorado PGA Section. The mission of the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation is to positively impact lives through the game of golf.


This year's tournament was a resounding success, thanks to the generous contributions of PGA of America Golf Professionals, Foundation Trustees, Sponsors, Participants, and Volunteers. The funds raised will be directed toward vital programs aimed at fostering growth, opportunity, and inclusion for young people, veterans, and underrepresented communities. The REACH Invitational is a testament to the community's dedication to making a positive impact through golf and philanthropy.


A highlight of the event was the presentation of a significant gift from the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation and their partners in the Military Warriors Support Foundation, led by Executive Director Ken Eakes. In a heartfelt ceremony the night before the golf event, the foundation bestowed a deed and key for a mortgage-free home to Jason Moon, a wounded combat hero. Moon, a decorated veteran, has bravely served his country through his time in the US Army and received the Purple Heart decoration for his courage.


“We are immensely grateful for the overwhelming support we received at this year’s REACH Invitational,” said Steven Bartkowski, CEO/Executive Director of the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation. “The funds raised will make a profound difference in the lives of the over 15,000 individuals we aim to support each year. Additionally, presenting Jason Moon with a mortgage-free home was a truly special moment that embodies the spirit of giving and gratitude that defines our event. This would not be possible without the support of all our sponsors and donors, especially presenting partners Tito’s, Jack Daniels, The Golf Club at Bear Dance, Plum Creek Golf Club, and Colorado National Golf Club.”


The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation’s contribution to Jason Moon’s life is a poignant reminder of the impact that collective efforts can have on individuals who have given so much for their country. This gesture not only provides Jason and his family with a new beginning but also underscores the importance of supporting our heroes and their families.


The REACH Invitational Golf Tournament continues to be a pivotal event in the realm of charitable fundraising, demonstrating the power of community and the enduring legacy of those who contribute to its success. Plans for next year’s tournament are already underway, with the aim of continuing to support and uplift those in need through the game of golf.


For more information about the REACH Invitational Fundraising Golf Tournament, upcoming events, or how to get involved, please visit https://reach.coloradopga.com/ or contact Steven Bartkowski at sbartkowski@pgahq.com.


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