The goal of this program is to assist GCSAA members' children in funding their education at either an accredited college or trade school. It is available to the children of GCSAA members who have been active members for five or more consecutive years. Applicants must be a graduating high school senior and be accepted at an institution of higher learning for the upcoming year.
General
The Par Aide Garske Grant competition offers educational aid to the children and step-children of GCSAA members. Applicants must be graduating high school seniors and accepted at institutions of higher learning for the upcoming year. Funded by Par Aide in honor of Joseph S. Garske and administered by the GCSAA Foundation. $14,000 in scholarships will be awarded. Scholarship award checks will be made payable to the applicant and his or her educational institution
Applications will be reviewed by three educators who are not GCSAA or superintendent members. All judging decisions will be final. Applicants will be notified by mail of their status by May 15 of the year submitted. All scholarship award checks will be made payable to the applicant and his/her educational institution.
Eligibility
One of the applicant's parents or stepparents must be a current Class A, B, or C member, employed as a golf course superintendent or assistant, or a retired A-Retired, B-Retired, or AA member of the GCSAA for at least five consecutive years.
Although more than one student from the same family may apply, only one child/stepchild of any individual member can receive an award in the same year.
Children of those employed by Par Aide, the GCSAA Foundation's Board of Trustees, the GCSAA Board of Directors and GCSAA staff are not eligible for this program.
Criteria for selection
The student must be a graduating high school senior and be accepted at an accredited institution of higher learning or trade school as a full-time student for the upcoming school year (verification required).
The student must demonstrate a broad base of interests including involvement in volunteer activities and outside employment.
Submit an original essay of up to, but not exceeding, 500 words evaluating a significant experience, achievement, or risk and its impact on the you. The essay must be original.
Financial need is not a factor in the selection.
Applications are open through March 15, 2026.
This application is open to GCSAA members and non-members. However, you will have to log in to apply. The login will be the same login you use for gcsaa.org. If you don't have a login, go here to get started.