Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to visit one of our Colorado Golf Association grant partners—Pikes Peak Linkers—to see firsthand how they’re using golf to reach young people in the Colorado Springs community. What I saw was an energetic, well-run program that is successfully growing the game from the ground up.
The morning featured groups of kids rotating through stations on the short course, putting green, chipping areas, and driving range. Every station was buzzing with activity and led by a high number of committed volunteers. What stood out immediately was how organized and intentional the program felt—each group had a leader, expectations were clear, and both kids and volunteers were actively engaged.
Thanks to grant funding from the CGA, the Linkers have been able to subsidize course access, support their volunteers, and offer “Linker Bucks” that kids can redeem in the pro shop, adding a fun and rewarding layer to their experience. The program is especially focused on increasing access for families from lower socio-economic backgrounds, and their partnership with the golf course operator allows kids continued access to the short course and range even outside scheduled program times.
One of their biggest challenges has been recruiting and retaining quality volunteers for the full summer. In response, the team adjusted their approach—requiring volunteers to commit to all three sessions in advance. It’s a great example of a program that’s not just running well but continuing to improve.
What impressed me most was the sense of community. The Pikes Peak Linkers are creating more than just golfers—they’re building confidence, encouraging positive behavior, and giving kids a reason to keep coming back to the course.
We’re proud to support this kind of work through the Colorado Golf Association. When you see kids swinging clubs, smiling with their friends, and learning the game in such a supportive setting, you’re reminded why these programs matter.
