That is the situation facing the Grandfathers for Golf program at Golden Era Golf Course, where a waiting list has grown because there are not enough volunteers to work with the kids.

Grandfathers for Golf is a volunteer-based program that teaches children to play golf. There is no cost to the parents, and donations are accepted but never required. And despite its name, you don’t have to be a grandfather—or even a golfer—to volunteer.

For more than 25 years, Grandfathers for Golf has been introducing children to a game they might otherwise never have the opportunity to experience. When a child joins the program, they receive a golf shirt, hat and a set of clubs of their own.

Over the years, hundreds of children have participated. Many have gone on to play on their school golf teams, several have received golf scholarships, and some have continued on to become golf professionals.

But the program needs more volunteers to keep giving kids that opportunity.

Tony Viola, past president of Grandfathers for Golf, knows firsthand what the program can mean to a child.

“This is a great program. Kids enjoy it and go on to play for the rest of their lives. I run into kids who say, ‘Mr. Viola, do you remember me?’ and I say, ‘Sure.’ Even though, when I knew them, they were a lot smaller than they are now.”

David Himenez, vice president of Grandfathers for Golf, has experienced similar moments.

“I had my Grandfathers for Golf shirt on when I went into a store and I ran into a young man who stopped me to tell me he used to be in Grandfathers and how much he appreciated it and enjoyed it. That made my day. That’s what we are all about.”

Ask any of the program’s volunteers why they give their time and you are likely to hear a similar answer: “It’s all about the kids.”

Golf teaches children more than how to hit a ball. Volunteers say the game also teaches manners, patience, discipline and skills they can carry with them throughout their lives.

Jeff Riley, the current president of Grandfathers for Golf, says volunteering is difficult to describe until you experience it yourself.

“Being a volunteer with Grandfathers is a rewarding experience. It’s hard to explain. But the smiles on their faces and the excitement they have for the game makes it all worthwhile. The kids are having fun with this game and they keep coming back to learn more.”

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

The Grandfathers for Golf program at Golden Era Golf Course currently has children waiting to participate. More volunteers are needed so those children can get on the course and learn the game.

You don’t have to be an experienced golfer to help. If you have an interest in helping children, the program would like to hear from you.

To volunteer with Grandfathers for Golf, call 951-692-1383 or visit www.grandfathersforgolf.org.

CHILDREN CAN ALSO REGISTER

If you have a child who would like to learn golf, registration is available online for the upcoming winter session beginning in November.

Visit: www.grandfathersforgolf.org

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