August 11, 2026

PGA HOPE Graduates and Instructors Unite for a Memorable Inaugural Golf Outing & Fundraiser in Partnership with the Todd Creek Golf Course Men’s League

Earlier this month, the Colorado PGA HOPE community came together to try something new and courageous—an opportunity to further honor and celebrate our PGA HOPE graduates, including the active-duty and retired military members who make our community so special.


On August 10, 2026, we marked a special milestone by hosting the inaugural Freedom in the Fairways Invitational at Todd Creek Golf Course in Thornton, Colorado. The event brought together 30 PGA HOPE graduates and more than 90 members of the Todd Creek Men’s Golf League for a memorable day on the course.


While fundraising initiatives took place throughout the day and following the round, our purpose was simple: to give 30 PGA HOPE veteran graduates a day filled with fun, camaraderie, gratitude, and appreciation—at absolutely no cost to them. It was a celebration of the PGA HOPE community and the incredible veterans who continue to inspire us both on and off the course.


The format of the day was designed to bring PGA HOPE graduates and Todd Creek members together, with three Todd Creek members paired with one PGA HOPE graduate to create each foursome. The result was a fun and competitive atmosphere that kept everyone engaged throughout the round. From Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin competitions to the “Driver’s License Suspended” challenge—where players were not allowed to use a driver on a designated hole—the day was full of memorable moments. On the challenging par-5 18th hole, PGA professionals even stepped in to help with their approach shots, adding another unique on-course element to the event.


A special thank you to Todd Creek Golf Course for being such an incredible host facility and helping make this event possible. We would also like to recognize PGA HOPE graduate and Todd Creek golf member Steve Agler for his tremendous effort and dedication in bringing this event to life. We are incredibly grateful to all of the sponsors who supported Freedom in the Fairways, as well as everyone who donated prizes and contributed to making the day one to remember.


And last, but certainly not least, a very special thank you to PGA HOPE instructors Visanu Tongwarin, PGA (Coach V), and Rob Grall, PGA. Their support and involvement at the event were invaluable, but their impact goes far beyond this one day. Their countless hours of dedication, continued commitment to giving back, and unwavering support of PGA HOPE are a true reflection of their character and passion for the HOPE community. Their efforts do not go unnoticed, and the positive impact they continue to make on PGA HOPE graduates is immeasurable.

Former US Army Specialist Padge Mattaliano Presented with Mortgage-Free Home by the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation

By Steven Bartowski • July 18, 2026
Record of Over $130,000 Raised for Local Programming supporting Youth, Military and Inclusive Initiatives; Michael Wamsganz Named 2026 Game Changer of the Year.

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. 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 . Click Here to Learn More About the Hole Hecklers.