Preston Pinkney, an Oakland native, has dedicated his life to introducing young people to the sport that changed the course of his own life. As the director of the Ace Kids Golf Program, he teaches golf to underserved kids aged 5 to 18 at the Lake Chabot Golf Course, in Oakland, CA. For his outstanding contributions, Pinkney was recognized earlier this year, in February, as a Jefferson Award winner in the Bay Area. Pinkney was also featured on KPIX-CBS News.
At Ace Kids Golf Program, Pinkney not only imparts golfing skills but also instills important life lessons in his students. Through lessons and tournament play, kids learn discipline, confidence, and valuable life skills. Pinkney is committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to participate, offering scholarships to those who cannot afford the fees.
Teen golfer Marlon Jones, who attends St. Mary’s High School in Berkeley, is one of the beneficiaries of Pinkney’s dedication. Thanks to Pinkney, Jones had the opportunity to play at the legendary Pebble Beach course alongside basketball star Stephen Curry. Jones expressed how empowering it feels to see someone like him compete in tournaments and succeed.
Preston Pinkney’s passion for introducing kids to golf extends beyond the Ace Kids Golf Program. Together with his wife JaVonnie, he founded The Pinkney Foundation in 2018. The foundation supports various programs that help kids develop essential skills like financial literacy and entrepreneurship, aiming to provide a strong foundation for their future.
Pinkney’s networking and fundraising efforts have opened doors of opportunity for the young Oakland golfers. Partnerships with organizations like Stephen and Ayesha Curry’s foundation, Eat Learn Play, have led to increased funding, access to equipment, and opportunities to play at different courses.
Terry T_Mr. Community, Pinkney’s mentor, hails him as a great role model, emphasizing his consistency and determination. Over the years, Pinkney’s influence has grown, and he continues to make a positive impact on the lives of thousands of underserved youth in Oakland.
Pinkney’s dedication and hard work have yielded remarkable results. Participation in the Ace Kids Golf Program has soared from 100 students to nearly 1,000, showing the program’s popularity and success in reaching young people. His latest venture includes the establishment of a golf training facility in downtown Oakland, scheduled to open in April. With this facility, Pinkney aims to introduce golf to 20,000 kids in the next three years.
For his tireless efforts in introducing young people to golf and empowering them with essential life skills, Preston Pinkney is a well-deserved recipient of the Jefferson Award. His commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of Oakland’s youth is an inspiration to all.
