USGA Launches Relief Fund for RIGA, 58 Other Allied Golf Associations
The United States Golf Association (USGA) has established an emergency relief fund for its 59 Allied Golf Association (AGA) members with an investment of up to $5 million.
The Rhode Island Golf Association is one of the 59 associations that will receive financial help during the coronavirus pandemic.
“These golf associations are the backbone of the recreational and competitive golf communities at the local, state and regional level. They play a vital role not only in delivering the USGA’s core services, but also in engaging millions of golfers across the country at the local level. This support will help enable the game to make a strong return once it’s safe to do so,” said Mike Davis, CEO of the USGA.
The application process for the funding opened on Monday, April 13.
The USGA has previously provided direct financial assistance to its AGA partners during times of need, most recently in support of relief efforts following Hurricane Maria in 2017.
The Funding
According to the USGA, the funding will come in the form of grants to help ensure business continuity and staffing levels during this time of hardship.
Individual AGAs may apply for up to $100,000; additional financial assistance will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
AGAs operate in all 50 states and function as mission-driven nonprofit organizations.
The USGA partners with its network of AGAs to deliver key golf resources and programs at the regional level, including conducting more than 600 qualifiers for 14 USGA Open and amateur championships and providing Rules education.
AGAs also serve as the only golf associations authorized by the USGA to offer a Handicap Index to golfers, and support USGA initiatives to grow and sustain the game.