From the Executive Director: WOW!!!

WOW!!  What a great 2018 PGA Merchandise Show week in Orlando.  More than 40,000 attended to view the latest in equipment, travel and fashion.  This year there were education opportunities on accessibility and inclusion of individuals with disabilities, and a dedicated area on the exhibit floor.  It is definitely movement in the right direction to bring to the attention of the industry that golf is for everyone.

Capping off the week in Orlando on January 26th, the National Alliance for Accessible Golf staged its first annual education conference on accessibility and inclusion.  More than 50 people attended to learn more from experts and share about including individuals with disabilities into the game and into life.  The highlight was our keynote speaker, Sam Depe III.  A PGA Professional and course owner from Pennsylvania, and winner of the PGA of America Deacon Palmer Award, Sam spoke about his disability, how that hasn’t held him back from achieving success in business and life, and about the need for inclusion in the game.  It was very inspiration to all in attendance!

While in Orlando, we had the opportunity to attend the Advisory Committee meeting for Golf 20/20 (to be known henceforth as We Are Golf), and attend round-table discussions on Diversity and Inclusion for Golf 20/20.  Often times when the industry talks about diversity and inclusion, it usually is in reference to gender, ethnic minority or youth.  But we had an opportunity to raise the point to ensure that when the industry talks about this topic, they also include individuals with disability.  After all, disability crosses all segments of society.

In closing this month, we want to remind you that grant funding is available for grassroots programs that are engaging individuals with disabilities in an inclusive program.  Check out the grant process at www.accessgolf.org under the Grant tab.

PS: Keep an eye out on our website at www.accessgolf.org for photos and some of the PowerPoint presentations that we had from the Conference on January 26.  They should be available online shortly.

Steve Jubb, PGA, CEO/Executive Director