CHARLOTTE, N.C. – As the PGA Championship returns to Charlotte, the week will begin with a meaningful honor: North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has officially proclaimed Monday, May 12, 2025, as “PGA HOPE Day” across the state. This proclamation recognizes the life-changing impact of PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), a program that introduces golf to veterans and active-duty military as a path to physical and emotional healing.

PGA HOPE Day will serve as the official kickoff to PGA Championship Week in Charlotte, shining a spotlight on the veteran community through a series of events and celebrations:

  • PGA HOPE Secretary’s Cup at Carmel Country Club (May 12): This signature event brings together 12 teams of veterans and service members from across the country in a friendly, team-based golf competition that embodies the program’s spirit of camaraderie, support, and inclusion . More information about the event can be found here.

  • Wells Fargo Building Tribute (May 12): That evening, the Wells Fargo building in Uptown Charlotte will be lit in red, white, and blue in honor of PGA HOPE Day, providing a striking visual tribute to veterans and the power of golf to connect and heal.

  • PGA HOPE Tee-Off Concert (May 16): PGA HOPE and Southern Entertainment will host the Tee-Off Concert at Symphony Park, featuring high-energy headliner Sol Fusion and opener Simplified Trio. The concert runs from 6:00–11:00 PM. Tickets are $25 GA / $85 VIP (open bar), available now at etix.com. Proceeds benefit PGA HOPE programming across the country.

  • PGA HOPE Carolinas Raffle (All Week): Open during PGA Championship Week, this raffle features great prizes like a ClicGear 4.0 Push Cart, Shokz Open-Ear Headphones, a Vortex Rangefinder, and a Justin Thomas–signed 2017 PGA Championship pin flag. $25 for 1 ticket / $100 for 5 — enter at https://charity.pledgeit.org/pgahopeday. Proceeds benefit PGA HOPE programming across the Carolinas.

PGA HOPE is a flagship initiative under PGA REACH, the charitable foundation of the PGA of America. Since 2017, more than 1,500 veterans and military members in North Carolina have completed PGA HOPE programs, all at no cost. Led by PGA Professionals trained in adaptive golf and military cultural competency, PGA HOPE uses the game to improve mental, physical, and social wellness while building community and purpose.

“PGA HOPE represents the very best of what golf can offer: connection, community, healing, and opportunity,” said Jeff Abbot, CPA, Executive Director and CEO of the Carolinas PGA Section. “Governor Stein’s recognition of this day speaks volumes about North Carolina’s continued commitment to honoring those who serve and empowering them through golf.”

Learn more about PGA HOPE Carolinas HERE!