Ken Bentley, co-founder and CEO of the Advocates Pro Golf Association (APGA) Tour, is celebrating his September 24th birthday in a way that reflects his lifelong commitment to making golf more diverse, inclusive, and accessible. Instead of gifts, Bentley is asking family, friends, and supporters to donate to the Advocates Foundation in support of programs that continue to expand opportunities for minority golfers and inspire the next generation.
Since Bentley and former PGA TOUR professional Adrian Stills launched the APGA in 2010, the organization has grown from three small tournaments on inner-city golf courses to a respected 17-event tour that competes at world-class venues including Torrey Pines, TPC Sawgrass, and Baltusrol. Under Bentley’s leadership, APGA players have earned spots in more than 50 PGA TOUR events, captured state open titles, and gained membership on major tours worldwide.
Beyond competition, the APGA has made an indelible impact on communities. Through its Foundation, the APGA has introduced thousands of inner-city youth to the game of golf and provided more than $250,000 in college scholarships through an annual essay contest. The organization also supports player development by providing equipment, professional lessons, fitness training, and nutritional guidance for young golfers pursuing PGA TOUR dreams.
Reflecting on the journey so far, Bentley noted, “What’s most gratifying to me is that the APGA is not only changing the face of the game we love, but giving hope and inspiration to the next generation.”
The APGA Tour’s impact has grown steadily thanks to the support of sponsors, partners, and individuals who believe in its mission. With this birthday fundraiser, Bentley hopes to build on that momentum. He has personally pledged the first $10,000 toward the effort and is encouraging others to join him. Contributions will go directly toward expanding youth clinics, enhancing the APGA Collegiate Program, and increasing the number of players in the Player Development Program.
Bentley’s vision for the next five years is ambitious yet achievable: doubling the number of young people engaged through APGA’s youth initiatives, widening the scope of benefits for college athletes, and creating more opportunities for emerging professionals to refine their skills and compete at higher levels.
Since its founding, the APGA has championed equity in golf by providing a platform for players who historically lacked access to resources and opportunities. Its partnership with the PGA TOUR and high-profile sponsors has elevated the tour’s visibility while reinforcing the importance of diversity in sports.
For Bentley, the birthday fundraiser represents not just a personal milestone but a collective effort to carry the APGA’s mission forward. “Thanks to your support we have made tremendous progress, but there is still a lot more work to do,” he said. “Together, we can ensure that the game of golf continues to open doors and provide inspiration for generations to come.”
Those wishing to support Bentley’s birthday fundraiser can donate directly through the Advocates Foundation online platform. Donations of any size will help sustain and grow the programs that are shaping golf’s future.
Contact Information
Advocates Pro Golf Association (APGA) Tour
Website: www.apgatour.org
Foundation Donations: advocatesfoundation.org
Email: info@apgatour.org
Phone: (310) 123-4567
https://advocatesfoundation.networkforgood.com/projects/258651-ken-bentley-s-birthday-fundraiser-2025
As Bentley marks another birthday, his request is simple yet powerful: invest in a cause that is transforming golf while uplifting communities. Through collective action, the APGA’s vision of a more inclusive game continues to take shape, one player and one opportunity at a time.
