The CDGA's Outreach Programs provide opportunities for individuals with special needs, veterans and youth to become Better Through Golf.
Individuals with Special Needs
Sunshine Through Golf Camp Program
The Sunshine Through Golf Camp Program began in 1999 at one location with just 10 individuals with special needs. This year, the program will conduct 92 golf camps reaching more than 1,200 individuals with special needs. The program was recognized by the USGA as the largest grassroots golf program designed specifically for individuals with special needs in the country.
The camp program is a partnership between PGA Professionals, CDGA member clubs, Special Recreation Associations, Private Agencies or Park Districts, and the CDGA Foundation. The Foundation sponsors all expenses associated with the camp within reason.
The CDGA's veterans program works with disabled veterans, active-duty service members and their families at Chicagoland VA hospitals and the Great Lakes Naval Base. Clinics are held at the Bob Berry Three-Hole Sunshine Course at Midwest Golf House and on the naval base. They are conducted as part of a partnership between the CDGA and RevelationGolf.
Additionally, the CDGA began to administer Blind Veterans Golf Outings in conjunction with the Hines VA Hospital's Central Blind Rehabilitation Center (CBRC) in 2019. After a brief hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these clinics resumed in 2023 at various clubs throughout the Chicago District.
The CDGA and CDGA Foundation partnered with Youth on Course in 2016.
Founded by the Northern California Golf Association and headquartered in Pebble Beach, Youth on Course has expanded its reach to all 50 U.S. states and Canada. The organization subsidizes rounds for its age 6-18 members, ensuring that they can play for $5 or less.
In its sixth season in the Chicago District in 2022, more than 4,500 youth golfers played more than about 11,000 affordable-access rounds at 54 local courses.
The 2023 slate of CDGA Outreach Programs was highlighted in the second print issue of the year. These programs annually impact upwards of 5,000 individuals with special needs, veterans and youth who otherwise would not have the same playing opportunities.
