LOS ANGELES (Feb. 15) – U.S. Bank today announced the renewal of its partnership with Youth on Course through the 2024 Birdie Challenge with PGA Tour pro Collin Morikawa. The partnership's first year was celebrated at the recent U.S. Bank-hosted Access Open – a tournament led by Morikawa and several U.S. Bank leaders who played with Youth on Course members who benefitted from the Birdie Challenge in 2023.
“Golf is a game that can open a lot of doors for young people but it’s expensive and there are so many barriers to entry,” said Carl Jordan, California’s regional leader for branch and small business banking. “That’s why we’re so proud to partner with Collin and Youth on Course to open those doors and create better access to the game for these talented, young players.”
Last year, five memberships were donated by U.S. Bank to Youth on Course for every birdie Morikawa made during the PGA Tour season – totaling 1,585 memberships. Youth On Course increases access to golf for youth from all backgrounds through subsidized rounds of golf at participating courses nationwide.
“Our partnership with U.S. Bank, fueled by the great play of Collin Morikawa, is instrumental in breaking down barriers and driving change in communities around the country,” said Youth on Course CEO Adam Heieck. “Programs like the Birdie Challenge expand access to opportunities, offering rounds to thousands of young people for less than the price of a bucket of balls.”
A donation of $200,000 was also given by U.S. Bank to Maggie Hathaway Golf Course, where the Access Open was played – a par-3 course in the heart of Los Angeles named after the Black actress, signer and activist who championed equality in golf.
“Access to the game is huge – it’s an expensive sport,” said Morikawa. “To be able to give back to a place like Maggie Hathaway, it’s just phenomenal.”
About U.S. Bank
U.S. Bancorp, with approximately 75,000 employees and $668 billion in assets as of September 30, 2023, is the parent company of U.S. Bank National Association. Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company serves millions of customers locally, nationally and globally through a diversified mix of businesses including consumer banking, business banking, commercial banking, institutional banking, payments and wealth management. U.S. Bancorp has been recognized for its approach to digital innovation, community partnerships and customer service, including being named one of the 2023 World’s Most Ethical Companies and Fortune’s most admired superregional bank. To learn more, please visit the U.S. Bancorp website at usbank.com and click on “About Us.”
About Youth on Course
Youth on Course is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that provides youth with access to life-changing opportunities through golf. Private funding makes it possible for members to have access to play for $5 or less through subsidies to thousands of courses throughout the United States, Canada and Australia. Members have the opportunity to succeed through Youth on Course programs: DRIVE Club, Careers on Course, Leadership Council and College Scholarships. In addition, Youth on Course recently launched an Alumni Network which extends membership to those 19 and older. This elevated membership offers opportunities for young adults to connect at complementary events, access exclusive deals, find jobs, and much more.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Ben Gallagher
U.S. Bank, CA Communications Manager
Cell: (805) 276-8322
Benjamin.gallagher1@usbank.com
Daniel Monroe
Buffalo Groupe
843.422.0682
dmonroe@buffalogroupe.com