PGA REACH Georgia is thrilled to announce that its Her Shot program has been awarded a prestigious grant from the Nike Community Impact Fund (NCIF). This significant recognition underscores the impactful work Her Shot is doing to empower young women of color in Georgia through the transformative power of golf. The NCIF, a cornerstone of Nike’s commitment to fostering youth sports, invests in local, grassroots organizations that drive positive, lasting change in their communities. With Nike employees actively participating in the grant selection process, this support amplifies the reach and potential of programs like Her Shot, which uses golf as a platform to promote personal growth, inclusion, and opportunity.
Her Shot, an inclusion initiative under PGA REACH Georgia, is dedicated to creating equitable access to golf for young women of color. The program goes beyond teaching the fundamentals of the sport, focusing on building confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of community. Through golf clinics and personal branding workshops, Her Shot empowers participants to overcome barriers, develop life skills, and pursue their goals both on and off the course. Her Shot is breaking down systemic barriers in a sport that has historically been less accessible to underrepresented groups. The program’s holistic approach ensures that participants not only learn to play golf, but also gain tools for success in academics, careers, and personal development.
At Nike, the mission to power the future of youth sport is at the heart of the NCIF. Each year, Nike partners with organizations worldwide that are committed to making play accessible to all youth, particularly in underserved communities. Despite significant progress, many barriers to sports participation—such as financial constraints, lack of facilities, or systemic inequities—persist. The NCIF addresses these challenges by investing in grassroots organizations that are creating opportunities for young people to engage in sports and physical activity.
Since its inception in 2009 at Nike’s World Headquarters in Oregon, the NCIF has grown into a global initiative, supporting communities across the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Japan. To date, the fund has awarded over $16 million through 1,665 grants, engaging nearly 3,000 Nike employees in the process. This year alone, the NCIF distributed $1.4 million to more than 130 organizations, including 12 other Atlanta-based groups alongside Her Shot. Other cities benefiting from this year’s grants include St. Louis, Portland, Memphis, and regions in Belgium, reflecting Nike’s commitment to supporting diverse communities worldwide.
What sets the NCIF apart is the active involvement of Nike employees in the grant-making process. Employees are trained to review applications, share local insights, and help identify organizations that best address the unique needs of their neighborhoods. This community-driven approach ensures that funding decisions are informed by those who live and work in the areas they serve, fostering meaningful and sustainable impact.
The NCIF grant will enable Her Shot to expand its reach, offering more young women in Georgia the chance to experience the transformative power of golf. The funding will support additional programming, including expanded golf clinics, mentorship opportunities, and community-building initiatives. By providing access to equipment, coaching, and safe spaces to play, Her Shot is leveling the playing field and creating pathways for success.
PGA REACH Georgia is deeply grateful to Nike and its employees for recognizing the value of programs like Her Shot. This partnership not only strengthens the program’s ability to serve its community but also aligns with Nike’s broader mission to break down barriers and create inclusive opportunities for youth through sport. As one of 13 Atlanta organizations selected for this year’s NCIF grants, Her Shot is proud to contribute to the vibrant ecosystem of community-driven change in Georgia.
Together, PGA REACH Georgia and Nike are building a brighter, more inclusive future for young women of color, one swing at a time. We look forward to seeing the continued impact of Her Shot as it empowers the next generation of leaders both on the golf course and beyond.
