First Tee-Central Arkansas has received a $100,000 donation from the Arkansas Champions Trust on behalf of the Simmons Bank Championship, to support two strategic initiatives aimed at expanding access to its character-building programs for youth in underserved communities.
This donation is made possible in part by the Simmons Bank Championship partners: The Simmons First Foundation, MK Distributors, Pleasant Valley Country Club and Pro Links Sports, according to a news release.
The gift was used to purchase a new passenger van and will support the hiring of a full-time outreach director.
“Together these investments will eliminate critical barriers to participation and significantly expand the organization’s footprint,” according to the release.
Monica Blake, executive director of First Tee-Central Arkansas, said the agency is grateful for this support.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
“Transportation and outreach are two of the biggest challenges we face in reaching more kids,” she said. “This donation allows us to meet those challenges head-on and extend our programs to hundreds of youth who need safe access and strong mentorship.”
The Arkansas Champions Trust is the 501(c)(3) organization established to distribute net revenue from the Simmons Bank Championship tournament to charitable organizations each year.
“The donation is the latest example of Simmons Bank Championship’s commitment to making a meaningful community impact beyond the course,” according to the release.
As host of the annual PGA Tour Champions event, Simmons continues to use golf as a platform to support youth development and nonprofit organizations through the region.
“The funds raised through the Simmons Bank Championship reflect not only the dedication of our sponsors, players and community partners, but also allow us to take tournament proceeds and reinvest them into our communities,” said Eddie Drilling, charitable giving chair of Arkansas Champions Trust.
The Simmons Bank Championship presented by Stephens will be held at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Little Rock Oct. 20-26. The tournament will serve as the second round of the PGA TOUR Champions’ annual Charles Schwab Cup Playoffs. The field will consist of the top 54 players in the season-long standings competing for $2.3 million in prize money and a chance to earn their spot among the top 36 in the final event of the season. In its inaugural year, the Simmons Bank Championship received the Players Award, with PGA TOUR Champion players voting it their favorite event. Details: simmonsbankchampionship.com.