Eagles for Children FAQ’s
A: Eagles for Children is a 501(c)(3) charity that partners with private golf clubs to raise funds for charities that support children facing adversity, creating brighter futures through generosity, collaboration, and the game of golf. We currently partner with 21 private clubs that, in 2024, collectively raised over $1.3 million for 190 charities.
A: Scholars and other scholarship funds are incredible programs, and we encourage all members to continue supporting these meaningful initiatives. However, many traditional club charitable efforts focus inside the gates, helping those who serve members daily.
Eagles for Children goes beyond the gates, directing support to local children facing adversity. It’s a way for clubs to recognize that their members are among the most fortunate in the community and, with that privilege, comes an opportunity to make a broader impact.
Many clubs find that EFC perfectly complements their existing charitable programs—acting as a third leg to the giving stool. Quite simply, it’s a fun, golf-driven way to raise funds for children’s charities, many of which your club members may already support personally.
A: The number of eagles varies by club, but on average, clubs can expect 30-50 eagles per 18 holes during the golf season (April 1 – October 31 for Midwest clubs).
Several factors influence the number of eagles, including:
- Course difficulty – Easier courses may see more eagles.
- Number of holes – Clubs with more holes typically have more eagles; additionally the number of par 5 and par 3 holes influences the number of eagles.
- Rounds played – Higher play volume increases eagle opportunities.
- Skill level of members – Clubs with highly skilled players may see more eagles.
Since the exact number is unknown in the first year, many new clubs cap pledges at 50 eagles to provide reassurance as they introduce the program.
A: Starting July 1st eligible children’s charities can apply for grant funding. Each club’s EFC Committee reviews all applications and determines how their club’s granting pool will be distributed to selected charities.
A: Eligible applicants are 501(c)3 public charities that support children facing adversity in communities surrounding the club. Grant requests must be used for programming within 12 months and cannot be applied to capital campaigns or administrative expenses.
Each application must be sponsored by two participating EFC club members. For full details on the granting process, visit the Grant Information page on our website.
A: Typically, the Ambassador for each club invites fellow members that show an interest, passion and excitement about the program to sit on the committee. It is suggested that the committee consist of a diverse 6-8 person team that represents a cross-section of members at the club. Additionally, some clubs may choose to include an employee of the club, such as the golf pro or GM, if they are interested in participating.
A: Every dollar collected from eagles scored on the course goes directly to the club’s granting pool. This money is granted annually by the club’s Eagles for Children(EFC) committee.
The costs of running the program are raised separately through an annual golf outing, private donations, sponsorships and an annual membership fee paid by each participating club.
A: Absolutely! Many members choose to pledge more than the club minimum once they see the impact of the program.
Members who pledge at least $2 above the club minimum become part of the Golden Eagle program. We have Golden Eagler members pledging at levels of $10, $20, $50, or even $100 per eagle.
Many find this to be a meaningful and strategic way to give, knowing that EFC ensures donations go to qualified children’s charities through a thorough vetting process.
A: The Golden Eagle Program recognizes members who pledge at least $2 above their club minimum per eagle. Many members choose to pledge $10, $20, $50, or even $100 per eagle, amplifying their impact in a meaningful way.
As a token of appreciation, Golden Eagle members receive an exclusive Golden Eagle bag tag, showcasing their commitment to making a greater impact in their community.
A: When a member scores an eagle, they report it to the Pro Shop or First Tee—just like a hole-in-one. The club’s accounting team is then notified, and each participating member is automatically billed their pledged amount.
A: The members’ account will be charged monthly as part of their normal bill. If allowed by the club, members can opt to have a one time “season” charge billed to their account. Throughout the season, the club collects these contributions, and the funds are added to the club’s granting pool.
A: The program tracks gross eagles; the total number of strokes taken for a hole or round.
A: No, it is limited to members and their immediate families only.
A: No, eagles must be scored at a member’s home club to count toward the program.
An exception is made if a club’s course is undergoing renovation or is temporarily closed. In these cases, some clubs implement an "Eagles Everywhere" program, allowing members to continue participating while playing at other courses. It also adds a fun element as members track where their eagles are scored!
A: No. Participation in Eagles for Children is completely optional.
All club members are automatically enrolled at the $3.00 per eagle level, but anyone who wishes to opt out can simply notify the club’s accounting department, and they will not be billed.
A: Ironically, when Club leadership takes the time to understand the program and ultimately make the decision to join Eagles for Children, they often ask “Why doesn’t every Club do this?”
