DRIVE SHACK VETS

Veterans’ programs had a busy summer! We recently had eight veterans on Tuesdays at Drive Shack with Coach Devin Shaw.  Our veterans’ programs are free of charge to our nation’s heroes and offer golf instruction, equipment if needed, outdoor recreation, lots of fun and important social interaction.

Please visit our website to learn more about our veterans’ programs.

COACH SPOTLIGHT: COACH DEVIN

Devin Shaw, a 50-year-old Army Veteran with 12 years of service as a unit supply specialist, is making waves in the golf community through his involvement with our veterans’ programs.

A passionate golfer with 15 years of experience, Devin discovered First Tee just three years ago and has since become a dedicated ambassador for the organization.

He has taken the initiative to start several programs for veterans, including a Monday session in Belle Glade and a Tuesday program at Drive Shack. He also leads the Wednesday veterans’ program at Dyer Park and runs a special summer program for blind veterans on Wednesdays.

In addition to his work with veterans, Coach Devin is a familiar face at the Martin Downs Pro shop where he works with his First Tee – Treasure Coast mentor, Joe Grohman, PGA. Together Groman and Shaw dedicate their Fridays to mentoring kids, teaching golf and instilling our values and life skills.

Coach Devin’s commitment to the sport and community is evident in his achievements on the Veteran’s Golf Association competitive tour, where he has won three tournaments this past year.  Driven by his commitment to children and veterans, Coach Devin is not just a volunteer but also has lofty professional aspirations. He is currently a Level 2 First Tee Coach and is working towards becoming a Level 3 Coach.

His journey and contributions highlight his passion for golf and his dedication to giving back to the community that has supported him. His efforts are a testament to the positive impact that programs like First Tee can have on individuals and the broader community.

100-HOLE CHALLENGE TIME!!

The 2024 100-Hole Challenge is upon us. Our goal is for each player to play a minimum of 100 holes of golf on a single day. Support one of our players by making a per hole pledge! 10 cents per hole is only a $10 donation.

We also offer a chance to win a trip to play and stay Pebble Beach!

Please visit our website for more information and to donate.

Sponsor Spotlight: KIWANIS CLUB OF RIVIERA BEACH

The Kiwanis Club of Riviera Beach has been a long time Chapter supporter.  They recently donated a grant of $1,000 to support the children of Riviera Beach in our programs.

The Kiwanis Club of Riviera Beach was chartered in 1951 as a part of the worldwide voluntary service organization Kiwanis International. The Kiwanis Club of Riviera Beach has contributed over $5 million in support of youth and community programs in Riviera Beach. They are an organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world, one child and one community at a time.

Their club is a positive influence in the local community so that children will be a part of a community that believes in them, nurtures them and provides the support they need to thrive. 

CONNECT 2.0 AT TOPGOLF

Over 100 Chapter supporters, staff, board members and students attended our Connect 2.0 event at TopGolf Pompano.  We kicked off the evening with students from the Boys & Girls Club Thomas D. Stephanis Unit that enjoyed a golf session with Coaches Robert Ferzoco and Chris Cupp, PGA for a putting, full-swing and life skills lesson.

Our guests also enjoyed Topgolf bay time in addition to drinks, hors d’oeuvres and a fun silent auction and 50/50 raffle.

Thank you to our sponsors who ensured the event was a tremendous success:

THANK YOU JUNIOR ROTC VOLUNTEERS

When we needed volunteers, the Junior ROTC students at Deerfield Beach High School stepped up to the plate.

These students showcased their dedication and community spirit by volunteering at the My Happy Golf Tournament held at Deer Creek Golf Course. Their exemplary conduct and enthusiastic participation not only contributed to the smooth running of the event but also highlighted the positive impact of their training.

FUN WITH NICK’S GOLF

NICK’s Golf allows children who are undergoing chemotherapy to have something fun to look forward to by enrolling them in a free golf program through The Chiera Family Foundation in partnership with our Chapter. The Chiera Family Foundation helps support four different programs for kids and young adults who are battling cancer. NICK’s Golf allows the patient and their siblings and friends to join them for the four-weeks of golf sessions. For some of these children who are battling cancer, it is the first time in a while to have some fun with their siblings or friends. Being outdoors also gives the parents a break from the grind of hospital visits.

Thank you to Topgolf Pompano for donating the hitting bays and breakfast for all the participants and their families.

Special thanks to Lou Chiera; President Winner’s Award Group and Chapter Director.

Founded in memory of Lou’s father, Nicholas Chiera, the Chiera Family Foundation has helped kids who are battling cancer have fun for 28 years.  

FAMILY GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP

PGA Family Golf held a Season Ending Family Team Golf Tournament where our PGA Jr. League students could play golf with their loved ones. Our students participated in a fun-filled day with their families demonstrating their golf skills.

LION STAR ACADEMY

We recently concluded our spring and summer special needs golf program with Lion Star Academy. Sixteen students participated for an hour during each class throughout the school year and through June.

Thank you to Director Lisa Bennett and the entire staff and volunteers for making this possible.

Special thank you My Happy Golf Foundation for providing the shirts for the students and staff.