There is nothing quite as powerful as an invitation. In golf, an invitation can remove barriers to access and create an inclusive space that encourages lifelong participation.
This summer, the PGA of America REACH Foundation and PGA of America Golf Professionals supported free Golf with Us Clinics hosted by Bank of America across 26 cities, welcoming nearly 1,600 kids from community youth organizations to the game.
Backed by a contribution to the Foundation, Golf with Us is opening doors for young players from underserved communities. With instruction and encouragement from PGA of America Golf Professionals, participants are learning that golf isn’t just a sport for a select few; it’s a game built for all.
“Bank of America helps people discover what’s possible,” said Andrew Vanderberry, SVP, Sports Sponsorship Marketing at Bank of America. “Golf with Us brings that commitment to the next generation by removing barriers to play and creating opportunities to learn and grow through the game. Our work with the PGA of America REACH Foundation pairs greater access with expert instruction, helping young people develop skills they can carry well beyond the course.”
Lessons Beyond the Game
Golf teaches life, character and social skills, which was on full display at Bank of America Golf with Us Clinics hosted from coast to coast.
My favorite part of today was meeting new people. I made a friend today. My favorite activity was the full swing, and I think golf is a really good sport.
“The kids had a great time,” said Rex Lindquist, PGA of America Golf Professional at Las Vegas Golf Club and host of a Bank of America Golf with Us Clinic. “For some of them, just getting out and learning in a big group was impactful. Spending time together, they find they have a lot more in common with each other than they realized, and it allows them to open up and make new friends.”
Golf with Us Clinics bring Bank of America’s commitment to strengthening communities onto the course. By bringing together local youth organizations and PGA of America Golf Professionals, the free clinics give young people opportunities to try a new sport, connect with supportive adults, and develop skills that extend beyond golf.
“Investing in young people is an investment in the future of our Colorado communities,” said Gabby Hodgson, President, Bank of America Colorado. “Bringing Golf with Us to Denver gave local youth an opportunity to try the game, learn from PGA of America Golf Professionals, and discover what they can achieve with guidance and encouragement. Alongside our community partners, we’re helping create welcoming experiences where young people can build confidence, make connections and learn lessons that serve them on and off the course.”
From First Swing to Lifelong Passion
A single clinic can spark an interest, but sustainable impact requires long-term opportunity. Not being able to access quality coaching, equipment and course tee times often keeps interested kids on the sidelines.
Thanks to Bank of America, Golf with Us Clinic participants received complimentary invitations to participate in PGA Jr. Leagues led by PGA of America Golf Professionals, and a free one-year membership to Youth on Course, which gives young golfers ages 6 to 18 access to tee times for $5 or less at thousands of participating golf courses nationwide.
As the flagship youth program of the PGA of America REACH Foundation, PGA Jr. League offers a team-based format that turns an individual sport into a shared, supportive social activity. In 2025, more than 3,000 scholarships were awarded to provide youth access to this life-changing program, and the need remains great to ensure access.
When organizations with similar missions to expand access to golf work together, the opportunities are limitless.
“Hosting the Bank of America Golf with Us Clinic was especially meaningful for First Tee – Greater Richmond because it aligned so closely with our vision of strengthening the character of our community,” said Kelly Brown, Vice President, Impact, for the First Tee – Greater Richmond. “Hosting the clinic at Belmont Golf Course, one of our chapter-operated facilities, also gave us the opportunity to showcase a premier public golf facility and demonstrate how our facilities serve as welcoming spaces for youth development, community engagement and access to the game. Our coaches and staff loved creating a fun, welcoming experience where participants could see that golf, and the opportunities that come with it, can be for them.”
“Partnerships like Bank of America’s Golf with Us initiative are incredibly valuable because they bring together organizations with a shared commitment to expanding access and investing in young people and their communities,” Brown continued. “For the golf industry, growing the game starts with creating meaningful first experiences and removing barriers to participation. When companies invest their resources, relationships and visibility alongside organizations already doing this work in their communities, we can reach more young people, create pathways for continued participation and ultimately strengthen both our communities and the future of the game.”
A Growing Movement
The momentum is undeniable. Since 2025, Golf with Us has engaged nearly 200,000 youth, introducing a vast new demographic to the game.
For the kids experiencing golf for the first time, it’s about far more than learning how to swing a club. It’s about feeling welcome, building confidence, and finding a community.
“This was a terrific experience for all of us, especially our scholars,” said Joe Hollings, Senior Director of Engagement for Open Doors Academy in Cleveland, Ohio. “I very much hope our youth will stick with the game and find out what else golf can offer them.”
