Four affiliated chapters of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) – the Alabama GCSA, the Heart of America GCSA, the Long Island GCSA, and the GCSA of New Jersey – recently made donations to GCSAA's philanthropic organization, The Environmental Institute for Golf (EIFG).
"We greatly appreciate the generosity of these four chapters," said Rhett Evans, CEO of the EIFG and GCSAA. "Their support, and that of all GCSAA chapters, is vital as we focus on serving the golf industry in its sustainability efforts."
With its $5,000 donation, the Heart of America GCSA moves into the Presidential Club level in the EIFG's cumulative giving program, which recognizes organizations that have contributed between $100,000 and $249,999 since 1987. The Heart of America GCSA, which is composed of members from the metropolitan Kansas City region, is now one of the top three giving chapters. It also has attained Platinum Tee Club status for the 17th year. The Platinum Tee Club is the giving club for organizations that contribute a minimum of $5,000 annually.
The GCSA of New Jersey held its annual Robert Trent Jones Invitational at Metedeconk National Golf Club in Jackson, N.J., Oct. 19, 2010. The event brings together superintendents and representatives from golf courses along the East Coast to raise funds for scholarships, turf research programs and education initiatives. It also serves to recognize the critical role played by superintendents in developing the vision of the golf course architect and ensuring the integrity of that vision, as famed architect Robert Trent Jones worked with EIFG leaders to establish the fund in 1987. Metedeconk National is recognized at the Star Club level by the EIFG for donors who have contributed $500,000-$999,999 to the EIFG since 1987. The 2011 RTJ Invitational is Oct. 18 at Metedeconk National.
Between the money raised at the 2010 RTJ Invitational, and money raised through its support of The Barclays last fall at Ridgewood Country Club in Paramus, N.J., the GCSA of New Jersey donated $5,000 to the EIFG. The GCSA of New Jersey attains Platinum Tee Club status and is recognized at the Executive Club level in the EIFG cumulative giving club for donors who have contributed $25,000-$49,999 since 1987.
With a $1,000 contribution, the Alabama GCSA retains it status in the Golden Tee Club, the annual giving club level for donors who contribute $1,000 or more annually to the EIFG. The Alabama GCSA is also recognized at the Executive Club level in the EIFG's cumulative giving club.
The Long Island GCSA joins the Golden Tee Club with a $1,000 donation. It is also recognized at the Statesman Club level for cumulative contributions of $10-$24,999 since 1987.
The EIFG is a collaborative effort of the environmental and golf communities, dedicated to strengthening the compatibility of golf with the natural environment. The EIFG concentrates on delivering programs and services involving research, education and outreach that communicate the best management practices of environmental stewardship on the golf course. Backed by the organizations of Golf 20/20 and the World Golf Foundation, the EIFG is leading the golf course industry's commitment to continual environmental improvement through its initiative Golf's Drive Toward Sustainability. Learn more about the EIFG.
GCSAA is a leading golf organization and has as its focus golf course management. Since 1926, GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the United States and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to 19,000 members in more than 72 countries. GCSAA's mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and enhance the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Find GCSAA on Facebook and Twitter.
For more information contact:
Mischia Wright, EIFG senior manager, 800-472-7878