For many, March brings thoughts of spring and returning to outside activities. This is true in New England and the Mid-Atlantic states where residents have recently been coaxed outside with a few warm days after months of puffy jackets and turned up collars.

It is also the month that planning kicks into high gear for two May golf tournaments in those regions to support our merit scholarship program. The events promise a good round of golf, good comradery, and a good cause. 

Sponsored by generous partners in the marine, defense, and government support industries, the tournaments are attended by business executives and employees, Coast Guard members, and other government officials. 

The NY/NJ Scholarship Golf Tournament will be held May 6 at Staten Island’s South Shore Golf Course. Coast Guard leaders and crew members from Sector New York will attend and the Coast Guard Foundation is seeking tournament sponsors and those who wish to participate. 

This event has raised more than $383,000 in 13 years to help Coast Guard children attend college or technical schools.

The 30th Annual Washington DC Scholarship Golf Tournament will take place May 20 at the Army Navy Country Club in Fairfax, Virginia. Limited to 36 foursomes, those desiring to play a round of golf with Coast Guard members are encouraged to reserve their spot early. 

Sponsorship opportunities remain available that allow corporations and individuals to show their support for Coast Guard members. 

Last year’s event included the Coast Guard commandant, ADM Linda Fagan, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Heath Jones, and other officials from the DC area. The tournament has raised more than $2.8 million since its inception.

Hear from former Coast Guard Foundation Scholar and college valedictorian Isabel DeSanno on the importance of the Foundation's scholarship program.

The Coast Guard Foundation is grateful to all who sponsor and attend these tournaments and contribute to their success. With your help, we have awarded more than 2,100 scholarships to Coast Guard children since our scholarship program began in 1990, helping Coast Guard children achieve their dreams of higher education while reducing student loan debt.

Title Image: Kendall Allen poses with family in front of an Air Station Detroit helicopter. Kendall is attending Purdue University and is the child of retired Coast Guard helicopter pilot Commander Ryan Allen.