[PHOENIX, Ariz.] August 18, 2026 — AZ GOLF, the governing body for amateur golf in Arizona and the state's representative to the USGA, today announced the launch of the AZ GOLF Foundation, a relaunch and evolution of the organization formerly known as the Arizona Golf Foundation.
The Foundation's mission is expanding opportunity for more people to access, experience and thrive in the game of golf across Arizona — opening pathways for future generations and investing in the long-term health of the game through meaningful stewardship.
"The AZ GOLF Foundation gives us an opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the game throughout Arizona.," said John Souza, President AZ GOLF. “By bringing together people who care about golf and want to give back, we can expand access to the game, support programs that make a difference, and create opportunities for golfers of all ages and backgrounds. I’m excited about what the Foundation can become and the role it can play in strengthening the future of golf in Arizona."
Developed under the governance of AZ GOLF, the Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that supports programs and initiatives showcasing golf's ability to change lives across the state. Its work centers on three primary pillars:
Access - The Foundation is dedicated to opening doors to the game of golf for all, highlighting opportunities for players of every age, ability and background. Through programs like Youth on Course (in partnership with the JGAA) and Adaptive Golf initiatives, the Foundation will ensure more people can discover, learn and enjoy the game both on and off the course.
Pathways - The Foundation is committed to supporting programs that help golfers reach their full potential. Through scholarships, mentorship and the funding of programs like Team Arizona, part of the USGA’s National Development Program, the Foundation will expand pathways for the next generation to compete, grow and succeed at the highest levels of the game.
Stewardship - The Foundation will steward the game of golf by investing in the people, programs and places that make Arizona golf special. The Arizona golf community goes beyond the people who play and support the game and includes the facilities, organizations and leaders that work every day to enhance golf in the state. As part of this community, the AZ GOLF Foundation will help create a stronger future for all.
“We’re proud to reach this milestone and excited about what the relaunch of the AZ GOLF Foundation represents for the future of golf in Arizona.,” said Catherine Carmignani, Executive Director AZ GOLF. “AZ GOLF has a responsibility to look beyond the work we do today and think about what the game needs to remain healthy for years to come. For us, that means being good stewards, strengthening the communities around golf and advancing the priorities that will help it thrive across Arizona.”
More information on the AZ GOLF Foundation's programs and initiatives is available at azgolf.org/foundation.
About the AZ GOLF Foundation
The AZ GOLF Foundation exists to expand opportunity for more people to access, experience and thrive in the game of golf across Arizona. Golf brings people together, creates connections and opens doors on and beyond the course. Through junior golf, adaptive golf and other initiatives that support the future of the game, we want to help more people get started, stay involved and see how far golf can take them.
As a Foundation, we are doing our part to strengthen golf and the communities around it so both can continue to thrive across Arizona.
About AZ GOLF
AZ GOLF is dedicated to Engaging the Arizona Community Through the Game of Golf. As the official state golf association, and the USGA’s representative in Arizona, the Association serves more than 100,000 members and 550+ member clubs across the state. AZ GOLF provides its members with an official USGA Handicap Index®, course rating and Rules of Golf services, and tools that help golfers of every skill level play and compete with confidence as part of an inclusive golf community. For more information, visit azgolf.org.
Media Contact:
Tom Skulski
Communications Manager
tom@azgolf.org