Drew Grant

The Drew Grant is a private funding initiative established by PGA REACH Georgia to honor the legacy of PGA Professional Drew Dunn. The program is designed to support aspiring PGA Professionals in Georgia who are working toward achieving Class A PGA Membership. PGA REACH Georgia, the charitable foundation affiliated with the Georgia Section of the PGA of America, focuses on positively impacting lives through golf by supporting youth, military, and diversity initiatives. This grant reflects that mission by investing in the professional development of individuals committed to long term careers in the golf industry while preserving the values and mentorship spirit exemplified by Drew Dunn. The primary purpose of The Drew Grant is to provide financial assistance to PGA Associates who may face economic barriers in completing the requirements necessary to become Class A PGA Members. The grant offers up to 3500 dollars to a single recipient annually. Funds are intended to support professional advancement and are restricted to expenses directly tied to PGA Membership attainment and career development. These include PGA Membership Program costs such as testing fees, educational materials, and seminar registrations, as well as travel and lodging related to required educational activities. Additional allowable uses include leadership training, industry certifications, and other professional development tools that contribute directly to career progression within the golf industry. Eligibility for the grant is narrowly defined and targeted toward individuals actively engaged in the PGA professional development pipeline. Applicants must be registered PGA Associates or Affiliates in good standing with the PGA of America and must be actively pursuing Class A PGA Membership. Candidates are also required to demonstrate a strong commitment to a career in the golf industry, including current employment within the field. Additional expectations include evidence of leadership, professionalism, and service through the game of golf. Applicants must also be available to attend the Drew Tournament Reception at East Lake Golf Club if selected, as this event serves as the formal recognition platform for the award recipient. The application process requires submission of a structured form along with supporting documentation. Applicants must provide personal and professional information, including their PGA Member number, employer details, and current program level. The application includes several narrative components with word limits, asking candidates to explain their motivation for pursuing PGA Membership, describe their impact on others through golf, reflect on how they embody Drew Dunn’s values, and outline how the grant would support their professional journey. Required attachments include a resume and a letter of recommendation from a PGA Professional or employer, with optional additional supporting materials permitted. Applications must be submitted by August 31, after which a Selection Committee reviews all submissions. The committee may request interviews or additional information from finalists as part of the evaluation process. Selection criteria are based on demonstrated commitment to the profession, leadership qualities, alignment with the values of Drew Dunn, and the applicant’s potential for long term impact in the golf industry. One recipient is selected each cycle and notified by September 30. The grant operates on an annual cycle tied to The Drew Dinner and Tournament, a commemorative event held at East Lake Golf Club. The recipient is publicly announced and recognized during the tournament reception on November 1. While the grant itself supports professional development, the broader event also celebrates excellence in the Georgia PGA community and reinforces the legacy of mentorship and achievement that inspired the creation of the fund. For inquiries, applicants are directed to contact Carly Riordan via the provided organizational email address.