JERSEY CITY, New Jersey —October 16, 2026— Liberty National Foundation today announced the appointment of Guy Garbarino as Chief Advancement Officer. A veteran nonprofit executive with more than 25 years of experience at First Tee, Garbarino will help lead the Foundation's fundraising efforts and expand support for charitable organizations serving youth, Veterans, First Responders and communities throughout New Jersey and New York.
A New York native, Garbarino joins Liberty National Foundation following a career with First Tee that began in 2001, most recently serving as Chief Advancement Officer and Senior Vice President. During his tenure at First Tee, he led fundraising efforts that helped increase annual philanthropic revenue by 120 percent between 2019 and 2025, from $16 million to more than $35 million. Founded in 1997, First Tee uses golf to build character and teach life skills, reaching more than three million young people annually.
“As we continue to grow Liberty National Foundation, it's important that we have people who share our passion for giving back and making a difference in the lives of others,” said Michael Brooks, Executive Director of Liberty National Foundation. “Guy has spent more than 25 years connecting people and organizations with causes that matter, generating significant philanthropic support along the way. His experience, relationships and fundraising leadership will be instrumental in building new partnerships, expanding the Foundation's impact and ultimately allowing us to reach more kids, Veterans, First Responders, and communities in need.”
Liberty National Foundation partners with and helps "shine the light" on charitable organizations throughout New Jersey and New York, as well as national organizations that share its mission. Led by Executive Chairman Dan Fireman, the Foundation is supported by its Torch Lighters Club (TLC), a group of like-minded philanthropic leaders who share a commitment to making a meaningful difference and play an integral role in advancing its charitable initiatives.
“Guy understands both the nonprofit world and the golf industry, and he knows what it takes to build the financial support and relationships needed to turn a charitable vision into meaningful results,” said Dan Fireman, Co-Founder of Liberty National Golf Club and Executive Chairman of Liberty National Foundation. “In a short period of time, we've established a strong foundation through the generosity and commitment of our Torch Lighters Club, members and partners. Guy's experience at First Tee will be invaluable as we build on that success, expand our network of supporters and make an even greater impact on the organizations and communities we serve.”
"Since its founding in 2024, Liberty National Foundation has made a meaningful and lasting impact through the commitments of the Fireman family, Torch Lighters Club, and their partners," said Garbarino. "Having grown up in New York, I'm especially excited about the opportunity to return to the region and help build on what's already been accomplished. I want to help ensure the organizations we support have what they need to continue their important work and reach more people."
At First Tee, Garbarino held several leadership positions before becoming Chief Advancement Officer in 2015. He previously served as Board Chair of Communities in Schools of Florida and on the Flagler College Alumni Board of Directors. In 2010, GOLF Magazine named him one of the 40 Most Influential People in Golf Under 40. He holds a bachelor's degree from Flagler College and an MBA from Everest University.
About Liberty National Foundation
Established in 2024 by Liberty National Golf Club co-founders Paul and Dan Fireman, alongside a group of like-minded club members, the Liberty National Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity committed to supporting youth, Veterans, First Responders, and community initiatives.
Rooted in Liberty National’s longstanding commitment to philanthropy, the Foundation supports charitable organizations and programs that expand opportunity, improve lives, and strengthen communities on and off the course. At the heart of the Foundation is the Torch Lighters Club, a group of philanthropic leaders helping to advance the Foundation's mission and "shine the light" on organizations making a meaningful difference in the communities they serve. For more information visit libertynationalfoundation.org or connect on Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.
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