Hope is a word we are all distinctly familiar with, but sometimes fail to understand the magnitude behind what it can mean for others. For thousands of Veterans and Active Duty Military Service members, Hope stands for more than just a simple nod to a better tomorrow. It’s a promise and a lifeline.

PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) stands as a testament to this narrative because of how the power of golf is being used to change and even save Veterans’ lives. As the flagship military pillar program of the PGA of America REACH Foundation, PGA HOPE is led by more than 4,000 PGA of America Golf Professionals across the country who are specially coached in military cultural competency and adaptive golf training. In the Nebraska Section alone, nearly 100 PGA Professionals are certified PGA HOPE instructors, assisting with programs during the spring, summer and fall seasons.

“For me, this program is an easy way for me to give back to our nation’s heroes and all that they’ve done for our freedom. It’s truly a life-changing program.” — Nic Latcham, PGA – Under Par Golf Studio – Nebraska PGA Professional

With a steadfast mission of creating community and helping Veterans thrive through the game of golf, PGA HOPE is particularly unique in its model. Open to all Veterans and Active Duty Service Members, the program is offered at zero cost to all participants, ensuring accessibility to those who can benefit most. This is also crucial for breaking down barriers, enabling Veterans with diverse disabilities – whether physical, mental, social or emotional – to participate and succeed.

Below are just a few facts about PGA HOPE in both Nebraska and across the country:

  • Active in all 50 States at more than 550 program locations
  • Free for all Veterans and Active Duty Service Members
  • Goal to serve 17,000+ Veterans nationwide in 2024
  • PGA HOPE Nebraska ran 10 programs across the Section in 2024
  • 200 total graduates in Nebraska in 2024 and more than 500 since 2018
  • Thousands of Veterans across the country on the waitlist to join a PGA HOPE program

As we strive for PGA HOPE to reach all corners of the Section, the demand and need for the program continues to grow as word spreads. The reality is, the waitlist of Veterans to join a PGA HOPE program grows each day. With thousands ready to begin their PGA HOPE journey, and find healing through the game of golf, our mission is now more important than ever before.

Beginning on Friday, November 1st, PGA HOPE is kicking off the “HOPE 4 Heroes” campaign in an effort to raise funds that will directly impact programming across the country and more specifically, right here at home in Nebraska.

For $330, you can help provide one Veteran access to a PGA HOPE program. Join us by making a gift to our HOPE 4 Heroes campaign, and make a lasting difference in our nation’s heroes. Whether it’s the full $330 or $5-$10, any amount will help PGA HOPE Nebraska continue to make a profound impact on our Veteran communities across the Section. To learn more or make a donation, please visit www.pgahope.com.

For more about PGA HOPE and the impact the program had in 2024 across Nebraska, watch the video below.