PGA REACH Georgia's history reflects a long-standing commitment to leveraging golf for social good, evolving over decades to focus on youth, military, and inclusivity.

Founding and Early Years (1974–2000s)
The Georgia Junior Golf foundation was established in 1974, marking the beginning of its formal efforts to use golf as a tool for community benefit. This founding was a collaborative effort supported by both the Georgia PGA and the Georgia State Golf Association (GSGA), with a notable dedication in memoriam to Robert T. “Bobby” Jones, the legendary Georgia-born golfer and co-founder of Augusta National Golf Club. Jones’ legacy as a sportsman and philanthropist set the tone for the foundation’s mission: to introduce and engage individuals of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds in golf through instruction, education, and playing opportunities.

From its inception, the foundation aimed to make golf a “gift for a lifetime,” focusing on growing the game’s reach beyond its traditional audience. While specific programs from these early decades are less documented, the foundation likely supported grassroots efforts such as junior golf clinics, scholarships, and community outreach—initiatives aligned with the PGA of America’s broader goals of promoting golf’s accessibility.

Evolution and Expansion (2000s–2023)
The foundation’s work gained momentum in the 2000s as it began to formalize its charitable efforts as the Georgia PGA Foundation. A significant milestone came in 2008 with the development of the Georgia PGA License Plate Program. This initiative allowed Georgia drivers to purchase a golf-themed specialty license plate, with proceeds funding the foundation’s programs. The program was designed to promote Georgia’s thriving golf industry while establishing a junior golf grant program. These grants supported organizations and individuals providing golf access to economically disadvantaged youth, children with special needs, and the broader junior population, emphasizing values like fair play, courtesy, and self-discipline.

Rebranding to PGA REACH Georgia (2023-Present)
In 2023, the Georgia PGA Foundation underwent a significant transformation, rebranding as PGA REACH Georgia. This change aligned it with the PGA of America’s national charitable arm, PGA REACH, established in 2017 to deepen community involvement and extend golf’s reach. The rebranding reflected a strategic shift to integrate Georgia’s efforts with the national framework, adopting PGA REACH’s three core pillars: Youth, Military, and Inclusion.

Impact and Legacy
Over its 50-year history, PGA REACH Georgia, has evolved from a regional effort to a structured, mission-driven organization. It has impacted thousands of lives by providing golf access to underserved communities, fostering junior talent, and supporting veterans.

Today, PGA REACH Georgia stands as a testament to golf’s potential as a force for good, rooted in Bobby Jones’ legacy and driven by a modern commitment to inclusivity and community enhancement. Its history reflects both continuity in its youth-focused mission and adaptability to broader societal needs.