Salute Military Golf Association

Hello, Salute Military Golf Association


I hope this email finds you well. My name is Miosotis Ledesma, and I am the case manager here at John F. Kennedy High School’s Wellness Center. We are excited to announce our upcoming Community Fair, which will be held in conjunction with our New Student Orientation on Thursday, August 22nd, from 6p-8p.

We would be honored to have your organization participate in this special event. The Community Fair serves as a wonderful opportunity for new students and their families to engage with local businesses, non-profits, and community services. It provides a platform for organizations like yours to showcase your programs, services, and products to a diverse and eager audience.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, August 22nd

Time: 6p-8p

Location: John F. Kennedy High School Gymnasium

Setup Time: 4:30p

Your participation would not only enrich the experience for our new students but also help strengthen the bond between our school and the broader community. We believe that your presence would greatly contribute to the success of the event.

If you are interested in participating, please fill out the google form attached to this email. We will provide a table and two chairs for each participating organization. If you have any additional needs, please let us know in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate them.

Thank you for considering our invitation. We look forward to the possibility of your involvement and the chance to work together to create a memorable and impactful event for our new students.



Google Form:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdZgyIzCuosIBIJJbT_T-0QHge_TKEs3tqmBjPsgn46lOptNw/viewform?usp=sf_link

I had learned to play golf as a child and then lost contact with golf when I went of to college, and then the military. After two combat tours and a long, painful divorce as a result of my ability to positively reintegrate, SMGA directly assisted me in re-connecting with the game of golf and the amazing people that play it. The structure and camaraderie gave me something to look forward to each week and eventually led me back to being passionate about he game and playing with friends and family again. SMGA is a world class organization that is true to those they seek to serve and support. I am grateful for all that SMGA has done for me and other Vets. SMGA is making a positive difference.

I came to SMGA through a friend from the military that raved about the program. Now its my turn. I arrived at the Atkinson c.c. for my first lesson of 8. When I tell you I had no idea which end of the club to use. Now I play with confidence & the game is fun for me. Sometimes it seems like the peace I get from being on the golf course is the only peace i get. Also the fellow vets I've met in this program and through tournaments sponsored by SMGA are now friends. There is an instant brotherhood that's bonded by the common reasons for our participation in the program. SMGA gave that to us. I am forever grateful full to Jerry Shanahan from SMGA and Tom Smith & Peter Doherty from Atkinson c.c. as well as tylor made who make it all happen. I am in a much better place because of these gentlemen and this program. I cannot thank them and the donors that make this program possible enough.

SMGA has been an absolute blessing to mine and many other disabled veteran’s lives. From the clinics to the event opportunities, it is just spectacular. The best thing about this organization is the passion they have to help and serve others. Everybody I have dealt with in SMGA has been hands down awesome! Looking forward to spending more time with everyone and helping others along the way! Thank you SMGA!!

This program taught me how to golf when I had zero experience and they showed me how much golf can help my PTSD. I have friends who have also joined the program and they are doing very well. Jerry is the man and since the first day I met him at a TPC event until now he has gone above and beyond to make this program what it is. I would highly recommend this to anyone struggling with PTSD or trauma they occurred while serving their country.

My wife was referred to SMGA from her therapist at the VA. Although she has the service related disability, as a current veteran, I have been welcomed into SMGA with open arms. The golfing opportunities have been nothing short of spectacular. The camaraderie is wonderful. The golf combined with the people, especially the director Jerry S., have helped us greatly individually and as a couple. Thank you SMGA for changing our life for the better!

When I got out of the army, I had so many mixed feelings from being lost, being unsure, being separated from reality and much more. I was welcomed into the SMGA with open arms and open hearts. They not only showed me the game of golf in it’s true beauty, but it showed me a continuing love of brothers and sisters whom served and those whom support us. I have made great friends along the way and even learned some life skills too. You can have a flop shot everyone once and a while, but that’s only one shot, you can always make up for it when you take your time, set your site on the prize, and keep driving forward! Thank you SMGA for helping me get back to who I was and getting my smile back. You had my back and I forever will have yours!

Proudly,

“Doc” Girouard

SMGA New England was really good to me and gave me the opportunity to learn golf with 1:1 coaching and personalized attention that I couldn’t have found anywhere else. In addition to the great instruction and amazing fitted clubs, I came away with some great friends. It was helpful to reconnect with others in the New England that served over seas and sacrificed. Please help support this program so others can have a similar experience.

I've been a member of SMGA for over 5 years now. I can't put it into words how being a part of this organization has helped me through some tough mental challenges over the years. The relationships that I have with the members, staff of golf clubs (Atkinson CC) and director Jerry Shanahan has provided me with new memories of fun golf experiences and friendships. Golf memories that help shed the memories of war! Continued sponsorship and donations, not only help long standing members keep these relationships, but helps new members get out of that hole that so many veterans fall victim to. I can go on and on about how great it is to see all the familiar faces of old SMGA members at the numerous events throughout the year. How I've rebuilt relationships with old childhood friends that are members as well (guys I didn't know were even military). Reconnecting with someone you used to know and finding out you can confide in them as someone with similar experiences in the military. These types of experiences are hidden benefits to organizations like the SMGA. Benefits that would never be made possible without the support and donations from the community, businesses and golf courses in the area.

SMGA is a great organization which helps post 9/11 disabled vets, like myself, learn the game of golf. SMGAs mission is one that provides its members with the tools (clubs) to use golf as an outlet for issues surrounding our service. As a 100% disabled Veteran, the services they provide are essential to maintaining my peace of mind and really help with my ptsd.

The comradarie that this group provides is second to none, and I'm happy that non-profit organizations like this exist. Thank you SMGA!

This is one of the best organizations ever! As a veteran, this program has improved my overall well-being. I just want to say thank you so much and I am so grateful for their help and support. My life has been changed.

The Salute Military Golf Association has been instrumental in my recovery and ongoing work with my mental health. They helped me get back out onto the golf course after years of not even playing the sport that I love. I was able to connect with other veterans who were/are going through similar situations and we have been able to build friendships and serve each other. It's much more than golf, although the places we have got to play have been amazing. I have even been fortunate enough to be selected to attend the 2021 George W. Bush Warrior Open in Dallas - with many thanks to the SMGA to help me get there, feel confident enough in myself to apply, and comfortable enough to go. These guys do amazing work.

Steve L.
Massachusetts

Extremely important program for veterans. I have grown from this non -profit. It has afforded me countless opportunities to re-integrate with society and reconnect with my brothers and sisters who have served their country. It gives purpose and meaning in my life.

SMGA brings Veterans together through the game of golf. Although golf is the vehicle, bringing Veterans together is what really matters. Add in one of the most difficult games to master and you have a recipe for success.

I became a member a year ago and it’s done something for me that nothing else could. It brought me a sense of camaraderie with other vets who love golf. Can’t recommend SMGA and Jerry Shanahan enough. Class A all the way!

Literally life changing! SMGA has become part of who I am and has given me so much more than I could have ever hoped. The staff and leadership are outstanding, they get the members, and they absolutely bend over backwards to make our experience amazing. There is no other group that compares.

I have been working with SMGA for about 2 years as a volunteer. The work that they do with Veterans, is very rewarding, and has been nothing but a total Joy. To hears testimony from these Gals n guys how SMGA has made a positive change in their lives And this is why I love working with this group, you get to see the chances you can make in a persons life.

Much of the real value of the Salute Military Golf Association (SMGA) lies in the fact that it is a true grassroots organization. Begun as an all volunteer organization, the SMGA has been able to extend its services nationally with just two full-time staff. To date, the organization has touched the lives of more than 5000 post-9/11 veterans and their family members, and has given away more than 2000 sets of custom-fitted club sets. Despite the Covid pandemic, the SMGA has been able to maintain its ability to provide services, and still keeps overhead at less than 10% of donations, both monetary and in-kind.

SMGA has been more than I ever could have imagined. I had never really played much golf until I got out of the Marine Corps and once SMGA introduced me I was hooked. I think I can speak for most veterans when I say how much of an important part of my life it is now. When things are dark and gloomy, sometimes the only thing I look forward to is getting out in one of the SMGA events, playing golf, and seeing the other veterans. It has truly changed my life and I am not sure where I would be without it.

SMGA is absolutely committed to supporting veterans in a very unique way, through the fellowship and challenge of golf. Sometimes the best therapy is being outdoors with people you care about playing a game that humbles the best of us. Thank you SMGA for the work you do on behalf of veterans. Lt Col Ed O’Neal, USAF retired.

Salute Military Golf Association is a wonderful organization that helped me with mobility and a sense of accomplishment, thanks for all you do!!!

SMGA has had a tremendous positive impact on my life by Introducing golf following my military service. More than just a game, and something I never thought I would ever participate in. Without the support of the SMGA, all the volunteers, and the generous donations by so many…….the positive impact golf has brought, wouldn’t have been possible. I can’t imagine where my life would be without the mental healing it has brought.

SMGA is an amazing nonprofit! They've helped me in so many ways and given me once in a lifetime opportunities that I would not have had the chance to do otherwise. There are no words to thank them enough!

I've helped veterans get into golf for many years now. The SMGA has programs at 9 locations and the American Golfer Program that helps all of those veterans that aren't near a hub so they can receive the same training and assistance as those near a clinic site.

We provide training and tournament experience that no one can replicate.

The SMGA is the greatest golf experience I have ever had!! However, the people that operate the SMGA and everyone involved is what truly makes this organization special!

Very thankful for The SMGA, I would’ve never picked up the game of golf if it wasn’t for the SMGA. As a former Marine who suffers from PTSD/TBI, the game of golf has become therapeutic and relieves anxiety and stress I may be experiencing. The golf opportunities, lessons and outings have been nothing short of first class and lastly, I’ve met a lot of veterans and supporters that have become friends and some I play golf with on a weekly basis. The SMGA is a world class organization I can’t say it enough.

I'm really grateful for the SMGA. For me the most difficult part of the transition from military to civilian was the lack of camaraderie and shared experience. The SMGA goes out of their way to provide that and more, and I look forward to seeing it grow.

The SMGA is a great nonprofit organization for disabled veterans and as a veteran with PTSD it has been a blessing Introducing me to the game of golf, and the lessons I received being new to the game of golf were extremely helpful. I highly recommend any disabled veterans to check out this great resource!

My friends and I first started playing in the Annual Fundraiser for SMGA New England prior to joining. The level of professionalism and pride SMGA members presented inspired us to keep coming back year after year. It didn’t take long after meeting Jerry Shanahan and having that one on one conversation with him that I submitted my application and became a member.

SMGA is able to bring combat veterans together from all around New England and meet on a common ground, love of Golf and helping veterans.

I cannot say enough positive things about SMGA!!!

S/F
Matt L

As a service-disabled veteran, I became very used to, and comfortable with, hibernating in my living room. Basically hiding from people and my problems. One of the first reasons I had to get off my butt was the SMGA and their golfing program. You go take lessons, and they supply you not only with golf clubs, but also with opportunities to play. And getting to spend time around others like myself - those who know what I'm experiencing and understand - is a huge relief. And a privilege. If it weren't for the SMGA - and the members as well, I'm not sure where I'd be these days. Certainly not in as good of a situation, to be sure.

I've been lucky enough to play many tournaments I would never have been able to afford. I even got invited to the Monday After the Master's Tournament, hosted by Hootie and the Blowfish. They provide opportunities to continue lessons and learning, and opportunities to play in my community.

Because I'm still not all that good at the game. But that's not really the point. The point is I'm up and out and active. Doing something, and spending time talking and meeting other veterans who understand. There are healing powers in the simple ability to talk with people who will listen. And being able to do the same for them as well.

Finding this group was a "stroke" of luck, and I'm thankful every time I get to go on one of their outings. There are veterans who play who have obvious physical disabilities, and those of us whose injuries aren't evident at first glance. There is no judgment - all are welcome and are treated with respect and honor.

Thanks SMGA!! I'm a believer in the healing power of golf!

Over the past four years I have come to learn and love the game of golf and use it as a tool to cope with my PTSD. I am considered completely disabled by the VA and consider myself extremely lucky to have found an organization like the SMGA.

Over the years my mental health has had it's ups and downs, however I always find myself looking forward to the comradery I find within this group and the healing effect golf has on me.

This nonprofit organization has not only helped myself, but countless other veterans who will use golf to heal the wounds of war. My only hope is that the program can not only continue but also expand in order to help other veterans find the comfort and comradery I have found through the game of golf.

I was accepted into the SMGA New England chapter this summer 2020. I was injured in Afghanistan in 2011 and sustained a TBI, optical nerve damage in my right eye,shoulder injury, and a list of other injuries. I used to enjoy playing golf a couple of times a year before i was injured. After my surgeries I distanced myself from going out socially and hadn’t played golf with my group of buddies at all. A combat buddy had gone through the SMGA program and encouraged me to join. I was given professional instruction with a small group of veterans like me. The pro Dan at Springfield country club was outstanding and took into account my limitations and helped me find a comfortable way to swing. His patience and the quality of time he spent with me really helped me out. All a around great guy. I started playing in a local league once a week. Golf is something I look forward to. It calms me and definitely helps reduce my anxiety. I t has been great therapy for me. I really enjoy being outside and challenging my self again to excel at something. Thanks to Jerry at SMGA New England for all his hard work, Taylor Made for the custom fit golf clubs, Dan at Springfield CC for the instruction and to all the donors and volunteers that make the program a reality.

To whom this may concern, I am writing to let you know what SMGA has done for me.

I suffer from PTSD and when I found out about this group from a veteran ski buddy I had to join to see what it was all about.

Jerry Shanahan is the lead person who I had to go through to get involved. There was paperwork that needed submitting and he let me know exactly what I needed to do.

So the first tournament I was invited to I knew a couple of people and that was it. I get nervous around people I don’t know. I was put into a foursome with guys from different branches of service.

While playing and talking about our experiences around the course I was feeling more comfortable with the guys I was with.

So after the tournament we all sat together and talked about our game and more of our experiences. It was nice to connect and meet guys and gals who are going through the same thing. Some more than others but still easier to talk with people who understand exactly what your saying.

This program has helped me in ways that I thought could never happen. I love playing golf and couldn’t wait for the next tournament to take place. You may not see the guys you played with but you always meet new people and make new friends along the way.

I am so thankful that I was told about this program and very happy with the hard work that goes into it so that we can play and meet and make new friends in this sport.

I joined the SMGA Boston chapter in 2014 after many years of watching my life spiral out of control. It wasn’t until I picked up the game of golf with the SMGA did my life start to turn around. I no longer look into the past, I look toward the future. In the game of golf, I always look at the next shot, not the shot prior. This has followed into my personal life. I truly thank the SMGA for saving my life.

As a veteran with PTSD, I generally shy away from gatherings and meeting new people. However, I found that golf was a way for me to get out and not feel "claustrophobic". I was introduced to several members of the SMGA at a golf outing we were all at. After a brief discussion with them, I went home and checked it out. I was amazed at how accommodating they were in helping me become a member. What an incredible organization! The professionalism and generosity is outstanding. The golf clinics were great. The small group instruction was just the right size for me and being with other veterans made it therapeutic getting me "out of my shell". Thank You!

I was informed I may eligible to participate after actually having played in the SMGA fundraising tournament for several years. I believe that having a relationship with SMGA both as a contributor and as a member make me uniquely qualified to speak about the wonderful services they provide. Before I was a member of SMGA I played in their yearly fundraising tournament as part of a group from work. I found their tournaments to be extremely well run and looked forward to playing in them every year and happily handed over my donation to what seems like a great cause. It was only after several years that I was informed by a coworker that I may actually qualify to be a member. After submitting my application I was approved and was quickly signed up for lessons through one of SMGA's talented pro instructors. After my lessons I was custom fit for my clubs and sort of figured that would be where my SMGA story largely ended. Since finishing the training program however, i have been kept constantly abreastcontact by Jerry Shanahan about additionally benefits, opportunities to volunteer, and outings with other veterans. SMGA has had a positive impact on my life and I believe the organizations selfless volunteers and attentive well run clinics and tournaments to be the epitome of what a charity should be.

I am employed as a Wounded Warrior Advocate by the DoD and also enjoy the game of golf immensely. I have seen on numerous occasions the joy that golf brings to Wounded Warriors who otherwise don't leave their homes often. I used the SMGA Program as one of my resources in advocating for these Warriors. The process used to certify Wounded Warriors as SMGA members is user friendly. I am also a member of the SMGA and realized quickly that the program means what it states in rehabbing Wounded Veterans. I will continue to sell the program to any of my Wounded Warriors who express an interest in the game of golf. The SMGA as a non-profit has truly been valuable to myself and others. I have enjoyed the acquaintances I have made since belonging to the program and hope that once the pandemic is over, more SMGA events can come to fruition. Getting Wounded Warriors involved and out of their comfort zones is truly a worthwhile mission that the SMGA accomplishes.

SMGA is one of the most beneficial organizations for Wounded Warriors and Veterans alike. SMGA takes the time vetting individuals and getting to know them during the application process, which ensures we are all joining SMGA for the right reasons. In my case I was an avid golfer before 7/29/2005 when I encountered an SVBIED attack in Mosul-Iraq, making me a not so avid golfer for some reason.

SMGA-NE could not be in better hands with "Jerry", he is giving of himself and ALWAYS has SMGA members his priority. When I lost my daughter in August 2016, Jerry and a few SMGA members attended her services which I am forever grateful. As I said, I was an avid golfer and hopefully I can be once again after I fully recover from my latest surgery and injury, I can get back in the swing of things. Luckily, Jerry has not given up on me and continues to keep me up to date on the latest and greatest events and news from SMGA.

I was very fortunate to have qualified for a custom set of Taylor Made golf clubs through SMGA and Taylor Made, others are not so fortunate “BUT” can still actively participate in SMGA. I mention this because I met this fine young veteran who did not qualify under the SMGA guidelines for custom clubs so, veterans take care of veterans and I gave a complete set of Cobra golf clubs, with a bag, the first time we met at an event. That is what we do at SMGA is veterans helping veterans succeed.

A great organization that goes above an beyond expectations .Jerry Shanahan is 100% genuine I’ve never seen a more caring an organization.
I myself am a Air Force Veteran I’ve been playing with them for 3 plus years an I’m still amazed at how much they care an do for Vetren’s who are looking for a chance to reconnect to society in a positive way

Msgt David Durning USAF
Tridurn@cox.net

The SMGA Program has provided me with a great outlet to relieve stress and also a great opportunity to get out and meet other Veterans who are going through some of the same things I am. It has allowed me to meet some great people and learn a new skill which is relaxing as well as competitive at times. Everyone that I have met through this great program has been extremely nice and they are truly appreciative of my service to this country. Jerry has been very helpful in getting me enrolled into the program and he is always on top of informing all he members of upcoming events. I have recommended and assisted other Veterans with applying for this program as I feel they will benefit from it as well.

I had never even swung a golf club prior to joining this program. However after attending the free lessons I was able to build a foundation and learn the basics. I was instructed on everything from how to hold and swing the club , to how to chip, pitch and putt. I was able to further build on these skills by attending a few of the many events that were presented to me. Over the year since I have been a member I have learned the rules of the game and I have begun to enjoy it. I am far from a professional however the SMGA is for any golfer from beginner to much more skilled. The SMGA is a great group of service members and Veterans that you can have a great time learning and growing with. I highly recommend this program to anyone who is looking to learn a new skill and spend time with some truly great people. I am so thankful for Jerry and the SMGA program.

Jerry S SMGA New England. Our Boston Chapter started in 2013 with 6 veterans attending our Warrior Golf Clinics. Since then we have had 350 Veterans from all over New England successfully complete the clinics, get custom fit sets of Taylor Made golf clubs and participate in over 175 golf outings. In addition we have paid for 6 Group memberships at private and public golf courses where our Veterans can play for a cart fee only basis. Due to the growth of this chapter we changed our name to SMGA New England.
One Testimonial says it all."I wanted to give a SITREP, received my clubs and I am extremely happy.
I also wanted to say a quick thank you to yourself, the SMGA family and Taylor Made for the great work/partnership you have given.
This program is excellent, it reestablishes the bond of brotherhood which most of us shared during the service. It offers a challenging mission of perfecting the craft and a form of therapy for most. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to partake.

Looking forward to future endeavors.

As a member of the Board, I am proud of the work over the past 10+ years this organization has been around. I have personally witnessed many Wounded Vets finding great value in our program. Using The Greatest Game Ever Played to support their rehabilitation works on many levels, physically, psychologically and socially.

Golf is such a tough game to learn even in perfect health. To see these soldiers play just shows there is no limit to what what can do. SMGA should be applauded for the work they do to assist these heros in regaining confidence during their rehabilitation. Keep up the great work !

Working with the SMGA team as both a donor and volunteer has been a rewarding experience for our family. This is a passionate group of dedicated volunteers making a difference in the lives of our wounded veterans and I look forward to our time together every year. Salute to Jim Estes and team for their years of service!

I play in the golf tourney at Manor CC in Rockville every year. The SMGA is a class act.

every year our friend group gets together to support the SMGA. donating and golfing for the Military is what it is all about. MAGA.

My name is SCOTT and I have had the extreme honor of both working for, and donating to, the SMGA - Salute Military Golf Association. This non-profit military service org is located in the DC metro area yet they serve deserving veterans nationwide and also in Hawaii ! The board members are incredible people of integrity (and all-volunteer!!), the PGA golf pros are of the highest skill levels, every therapy, clinic, and adaptive equipment are provided entirely FREE to the veterans and their families.....thank you for your dedication SMGA, and my sincere hope is just that we can raise the awareness and additional funding you need for all of those on the waiting lists !! Thanks....... SCOTT

Great and honorable charity helping empower those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. A REAL CHARITY, with a HUGE IMPACT!!!

I've been a volunteer with SMGA for four years and working with our wounded veterans is very rewarding. Seeing them use the game of golf as part of their rehabilitation has changed my life. You realize the sacrifices they made for our country. The SMGA family is amazing!!!

Over 4 years ago I started working with SMGA as a Golf Professional instructing Post 9/11 Wounded and Injured Veterans learn and use golf as part of their rehab. The transformation of Veterans completing the program is amazing to witness and the stories of success are countless.

My husband attended the SMGA clinics in 2015. He was injured in Afghanistan in 2009. Prior to his injury he was very active in all sorts of sports, ranging from soccer to swimming and running. My husband is athletically gifted. After his injury he faced new challenges. He lost his right leg and also had other physical limitations. I could see that he was trying to find his place in the world after his injury. He wasnt sure what he could or couldn't do with new limitations. He started the clinics at SMGA and something changed. I saw that my husband had finally found a sport he could do, and it wasnt taxing on his leg or the rest of his body. He started loving golf and he got better at it, all thanks to the SMGA program. We both attended the clinics and they are top notch. The staff is so supportive and kind. He found a great family in the SMGA folks SMGA far exceeded my expectations and I can say the same thing for him. I am so happy that he found this program. It truly changed his life and gave him a physical activity that he now looks forward to. It gave him a new brotherhood as well. It also brought out his competitive side, which I know is also healthy to have. I would highly recommend this program to any injured veterans and their families.

The SMGA truly changed my life for the better. After being injured in Afghanistan I ended up in Walter Reed Army Medical Hospital to recovery from my wounds. There were countless doctors, nurses, therapists, and organizations that helped me rebuild myself into the person that I am today. By far one of the most important moments of my recovery was attending one of the SMGA clinics (Maryland Chapter) with a friend. It's hard to put into words the healing and growth that happens goes well beyond learning the game of golf.

For all the service members out there who are looking for a challenge, I cannot recommend the clinics (or American Golfer Program for those not near a local chapter) enough. Bring your family as it is truly an encompassing healing & fun experience.

More importantly, if you want to help those who have served, I cannot stress how much of an impact the individual volunteers have had on my life. This is one of the greatest organizations that I have been blessed enough to benefit from, and all the credit goes to the men and women who decided that they would take a step towards helping and volunteering for myself and my fellow service members.

I can't say enough good things about this organization. My boyfriend was very grateful to have been given such personalized golf lessons, but he especially loved learning with other Veterans. PTSD is such an over-looked and misunderstood condition that so many soldiers must deal with and tackle on a daily basis. This set up allows veterans to redirect and focus on something healthy and is so very helpful in so many ways. The staff, the volunteers, the entire set up is beautifully done, very detailed and just truly amazing! Its humbling for me and well-deserved by those that have served and protected our country. A HUGE thank you!

This great group is doing wonderful things for veterans. I was able to get 6 lessons at Chambers Bay home of the 2015 US Open from there head golf professional and then was fitted for a set of Taylor made Golf clubs. It has changed my golf game 100%. They are now doing group clinics at Chambers Bay so we can get to know other veterans and golfers in our own areas. Please keep up the great work.

An incredible organization with an incredible mission! SMGA is comprised of dedicated volunteers who provide a much needed outlet for our wounded veterans.

Jim and team provide tailored golf instruction depending on each individuals personal challenges. My five year old son also enjoys volunteering.

I've been involved with the SMGA for over five years as a volunteer. Few nonprofits are as hands-on and receive immediate results as what SMGA accomplishes with our wounded veterans. The therapeutic work the organization carries out - led by Jim Estes and his team of highly skilled PGA instructors - is proven to create better lives for the heroic men and women who have sacrificed to protect our freedom.

SMGA helped open doors for me post injury. It allowed me to reconnect with many of the wounded veterans I had met throughout my time at Walter Reed, and allowed me to grow an extensive professional network through their golf opportunities. I am forever in their debt for helping me transition into civilian life.

After being injured in Afghanistan in 2011 I wasn't sure what physical activities I would still be able to do. The one thing I had always enjoyed during my military service was playing golf. The Salute to Military Golf Association got me out of the hospital and back on the golf course. Through the Saturday clinics and playing opportunities I was able meet men and women who were going through the same struggles I was going through.I enjoyed the camaraderie, the physical challenge, and the mental stimulation of being competitive in a sport again. After 4 years of being with the program, I can honestly say it was a key component of my recovery and instrumental in getting me back on my feet. The staff and volunteers make this program my favorite. I look forward to every Saturday that I can go back, but this time as a mentor to the injured veterans that are going through the same struggles that I did. I would recommend this program to any wounded veteran that is looking for a challenge, camaraderie, and healing. SMGA has given me something that I can take with me forever, I may never be able to run with my kids down the road, but I know that I will be able to play golf. The program showed me there is a place I can go when the days are tough that will put me in a calm place, a place I can be around my peers, and a place that I can heal.

This is an organization committed to helping our Wounded Veterans and their Families during a most difficult period. A wonderful collection of volunteers, supporters, and community partners come together as a support network to make it happen. The use of a variety of social media and web-based tools have drawn the nationwide community even closer.

This organization has changed my life for the better. I now have a sport that I love and that motivates me to stay active. I now have a renewed sense of purpose and motivation. Staff was amazing and very easy to communicate with.

I volunteer with the organizations and have seen the healing power -- not of golf, but of finding a new normal. Life not as it was... but as it is, now. Remarkable changes in some remarkable Americans! ... based around a small dimpled ball. Conscientious leadership, dedicated volunteers... Great Mission!

From the moment I discovered the SMGA, I knew that I wanted to be a part of it! Their mission is to provide wounded veterans with rehabilitative golf experiences, and over the past 9 years they have helped thousands of people both mentally and physically. Golf is an excellent form of therapy for PTSD and amputees, and this organization is a blessing for those looking to recover from their injuries. I look forward to seeing the SMGA grow and expand across the US in the upcoming years. #SMGA #WarriorGolf

This is an exceptional charity. I was serviced through the Northern New York Chapter, near Fort Drum. Frank does some exceptional work up there. This is another charity that goes direct with and focuses on veterans. They don't waste their time and money on marketing and paying senior board members like a number of the bigger ones that contribute very little to actual veterans.

The SMGA has been a mind blowing experience, ranging from the services offered through professional golf clinic lessons, individual time spent with every wounded veteran, and then the gift of a complete set of amazing golf clubs tailored to you to continue your golf journey. I came in never ever holding a club, and left with understanding the fundamentals, and built new relationships with other veterans, volunteers, and the members of the nonprofit itself.

They all are wonderful people, and it was an honor to have been given a outlet to focus my energy on and meet wonderful people in the area.