The LPGA Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization founded in 1991, continues to empower women and girls through the game of golf, as evidenced by the “Drive On for the Future” campaign.
In 2015, The LPGA Foundation introduced a two-day LPGA Leadership Academy to keep teenage girls engaged in golf and prepare them for leadership opportunities. The LPGA Leadership Academy uses golf as a vehicle to provide a framework for young women to develop their confidence, communication and leadership skills. Group exercises, expert-led discussions, journaling and interaction with female executives and mentors help girls discover their unique strengths and leadership style.
Amy Bockerstette, an alumna of the LPGA Leadership Academy and LPGA*USGA Girls Golf of Phoenix, has transcended sport with her “I Got This” mantra and unwavering positivity. She was the first person with Down Syndrome to earn a college athletic scholarship, and her inspirational message spread around the globe after a heartfelt moment with Gary Woodland on the 16th hole of the Waste Management Phoenix Open.
“I think that the part of the Leadership Academy that really stuck for her was when they were teaching the girls about confidence,” said Jenny Bockerstette, Amy’s mother. “They explored the power of body language, and beliefs, and positive self-talk. To this day, Amy still strikes her own power pose, which she created at the Leadership Academy, and she recites her own unique mantra.”
In the five years since its inception, 640 girls have attended the two-day LPGA Leadership Academy, 90 of whom are currently playing or plan to play college golf. The game of golf is used as a platform and learning tool to teach girls how to become better decision makers, overcome and let go of setbacks, take calculated risks, develop skills to accomplish specific goals, play their own game and find their voice.
Amy attended the LPGA Leadership Academy in May 2017, learning the positive self-talk and skills that you can see showcased in the video with Woodland that went viral. Amy’s mom, Jenny, credits the LPGA Leadership Academy and Girls Golf with contributing to her confidence, leadership and changing their lives.
“Our family is so thankful for Girls Golf and for the Leadership Academy,” said Jenny Bockerstette. “We believe both played a really important role in helping Amy become who she is today.”
How can you help Drive On for the Future?
- Text Drive to 71777 or visit https://bitly.com/LPGADrive to make your gift
- Sign up to become a fundraiser and share your personal page with your friends and family via text, email, or social media
- Join the conversation on social media by sharing your own #DriveOn story and encouraging others to Drive On for the Future. Click HERE for a social toolkit.
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