PGA REACH Colorado Foundation Honors Wounded Hero with its 12th Sponsored Mortgage-Free Home

Golf with a purpose:

$110K Raised for Local Programming, One Hero Honored

July 21, 2025 - Larkspur, Colo. - The 2025 REACH Invitational Fundraiser Golf Tournament concluded with resounding success, raising more than $110,000 to support the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation’s mission of positively impacting lives through youth development, military support, and inclusion programs across the Colorado PGA Section.

Held over two days at Lakewood Country Club in Lakewood, Colorado, and The Golf Club at Bear Dance in Larkspur, Colorado, this year’s event was a testament to the power of community, commitment, and compassion. The tournament brought together The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation Trustees, their guest, Colorado PGA of America Golf Professionals, and corporate partners from across the Colorado PGA Section, all united by a shared purpose to grow the game of golf and provide the opportunity to all to enjoy it.

A defining highlight of the event was the presentation of a mortgage-free home to former U.S. Army Specialist Daniel Scipioni, made possible through the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation’s partnership with Ken Eakes and the Military Warriors Support Foundation. This marks the twelfth home awarded by the foundation—a milestone that underscores the lasting impact of its ongoing military initiatives.

In a heartfelt addition, Impact Sports and Tuff Shed donated a custom-built golf simulator shed to accompany Daniel’s new home. Unveiled during the welcome reception at Lakewood Country Club on Tuesday, July 15th, the simulator serves as both a gift of gratitude and a therapeutic resource to help Daniel reintegrate into civilian life through the game of golf.

On Wednesday, July 16th, 30 teams of Colorado PGA of America Golf Professionals, Trustees and Amateur Golfers teed off in spirited competition at The Golf Club at Bear Dance, in a 3-2-1 Net Shamble event. The guests were greeted by numerous tee gifts, beverages from Tito’s and Jack Daniels, a special opening ceremony for Army Specialist Daniel Scipioni, breakfast, lunch and the beautiful grounds of The Golf Club at Bear Dance.

“We are deeply grateful to our Colorado PGA Golf Professionals, Foundation Trustees, Corporate Partners, and all participating players,” said the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation’s CEO/Executive Director Steven Bartkowski. “The support and dedication displayed throughout the REACH Invitational make our mission possible. These funds will allow us to continue delivering impactful programming and ensure that golf remains open, inclusive, and accessible to all.”

The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation remains committed to using the game of golf as a vehicle for positive change—and thanks to the generosity on display at the 2025 REACH Invitational, that mission is stronger than ever.

Congratulations to the PGA REACH Invitational winning team, Team Colorado Renaissance Festival (pictured above), comprised of Jimmy Paradise, Jim Paradise, David Barton, and Roger Bailey! Shooting a spectacular 29-under-par in the 3-2-1 Net Shamble to take first place!

Finally, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our incredible 2025 REACH Invitational Partners and host clubs—your generosity and involvement were instrumental in making this event such a tremendous success. Special recognition goes to: The Golf Club at Bear Dance, Lakewood Country Club, Tito’s Vodka, Jack Daniels, Ahead, UMB Bank, Hole Hecklers, Gateway Golf Group, Colorado Golf Association, Flyway, Thor Lundgren, El Pomar Foundation, Colorado Renaissance Festival, Tuff Shed, Impact Sports, Military Warriors Support Foundation, Plum Creek Golf Club, Colorado National Golf Club, Alpine Wine & Spirits, Mizuno, Motocaddy, Maui Jim, John & Sandi Andrew, Swing 365 Golf, AvidGolfer, Jones, Hole-in-One U.S.A., Stitch, Liquid Death, and Golf Status. Your support not only enhanced the tournament experience for participants but directly contributes to changing lives through the game of golf.

About the REACH Invitational: The REACH Invitational Fundraising Golf Tournament is an annual event dedicated to raising funds and awareness for programming that supports youth, military personnel, and inclusion initiatives. Through the generosity of participants and sponsors, the tournament aims to foster positive change and provide valuable resources to those in need.

About the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation: The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation is a non-profit organization focused on creating opportunities and support for youth, military veterans, and diverse communities through the game of golf. The foundation’s mission is to positively impact lives by leveraging the resources and network of the PGA of America.

Media Contact:

Steven Bartkowski

CEO/Executive Director

Colorado PGA

PGA REACH Colorado Foundation

sbartkowski@pgahq.com

https://reach.coloradopga.com/

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