Nonprofit Leverages Golf to Foster Community for Veterans in Myrtle Beach
The Power of Golf for Veterans
In Myrtle Beach, a local nonprofit known as Project Golf has spent the past five years using golf as a form of therapy to forge a sense of belonging and community among veterans. The initiative targets disadvantaged youth and newcomers to the sport. The class aimed at veterans is set to reward over 400 participants with graduation certificates this year. After completing the class, graduates can choose to become ambassadors for the program.
Creating Camaraderie Through Golf
Dennis Primiano became an ambassador three years ago, after having graduated from the program. He stressed the significance of the unity created within the Project Golf community. There’s a unique satisfaction he described: “When they hit that first really good shot, I mean to see the joy in their eye it’s unbelievable”.
Collaboration with PGA Hope
Project Golf has teamed up with PGA Hope to widen its impact on veterans across the Grand Strand. Chris Aranda, a member of PGA Hope, sees golf as being much more than a game. He believes it’s an essential therapeutic outlet for veterans, saying, “Golf is the one that keeps us alive and it’s one golf swing at a time that we’re able to care for each other. It’s a special community of golfers here that are veterans.”
Golf as Therapy and Community Builder
Part of Project Golf and PGA Hope’s objectives extend to aiding veterans with disabilities to reap the benefits of golf, by utilizing it as a social bridge and therapeutic tool. Every instructor affiliated with the program has received training in adaptive golf, enabling them to effectively teach everyone, regardless of their ability, how to play golf.
A Veteran Family Bound by Golf
Gary Schaal, Executive Director of Project Golf, mentioned that regardless of the branch or era of service, the program creates an environment that making veterans want to keep coming back to be a part of the community, even after their classes have concluded.
Dennis Nicholl, president of the nonprofit, acknowledged initial hesitancy among the new recruits about stepping onto the course at first, but after the six-week program, the benefits are undeniable. “They are dedicated, they’re hooked, they can’t wait to get back to the sport, and it’s actually in many cases saving lives, not just changing lives. It’s actually saving lives.” he said.
Project Golf Myrtle Beach is set to organize its second annual Show Some Love charity tournament on March 25. Further details can be found through their official channels. Their ongoing efforts highlight the transformative power of golf and its ability to enhance the lives of those who served our country.
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