The APGA Foundation has donated $30,400 to the Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena and First Tee – Greater Pasadena to aid in fire relief for the Altadena community, which suffered significant damage during the January wildfires. The money, presented in early May, was raised through birdies and eagles scored at the APGA Tour Farmers Insurance Invitational, which took place in January and generated $9,300. With matching contributions from Farmers Insurance and APGA co-founder Ken Bentley, plus additional support, the final donation amount climbed to over $30,000.
The funds will be used to replace essential equipment lost in the fires, expand youth programs, and provide relief to families hit hardest by the disaster. According to Ken Bentley, the APGA’s Chairman of the Board and Co-Founder, the donation underscores the organization’s commitment to using golf as a force for positive change. Bentley emphasized the importance of standing with local youth organizations and helping communities rebuild after hardship.
A donation event was held at Brookside Golf Club in Pasadena, featuring APGA Tour players Andrew Fernandez, Jonathan Yoshihiro, and Rovonta Young. Youth and staff members from both the Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena and First Tee – Greater Pasadena also attended. The presentation concluded with a surprise check reveal, group photos, and interviews with organizational leaders.
The effort was made possible with support from Farmers Insurance, a longstanding APGA partner with a focus on expanding access and opportunity in golf and beyond. Representatives from the recipient organizations spoke about how the donation provides not only financial assistance but also sends a strong message of solidarity and support.
“This generous donation means everything to our youth,” said Mark Fritz of First Tee – Greater Pasadena. “It’s not just about the money. It shows our kids that their community stands with them and believes in them, especially when things get tough.”
The APGA Tour, founded in 2010, is a nonprofit organization committed to inspiring an inclusive future in golf. It accomplishes this through professional tournaments, player development, mentoring, and by introducing the game to youth in urban areas. The tour hosts 18 events annually, awarding over $1 million in prizes, and operates a Player Development Program to help young minority golfers pursue professional careers.
The Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena, established in 1937, provides a structured and safe environment for youth aged 5 to 18 during out-of-school hours. With a wide range of educational, recreational, and mentorship programs, the club helps young people develop confidence, purpose, and a sense of belonging.
First Tee – Greater Pasadena focuses on helping youth build character and life skills through golf. The chapter operates out of several area golf courses and offers 8-week programs aimed primarily at 5th through 8th graders. Participation fees help fund coaching and equipment, but no child is turned away for lack of resources. The organization encourages group involvement and maintains a commitment to ensuring that all young participants have access to quality coaching and life-changing opportunities through the game.
