PGA REACH New England is excited to continue its spotlight series dedicated to sharing the goodwill and support of local communities by our PGA Professionals. Chipping In trumpets the story of individual PGA Professionals and his or her efforts to differentiate their facility and personal PGA Brand within the community. This month, we share the story of Don Roberts, PGA of Waterville Country Club.
Don Roberts, PGA
Waterville CC
I have been a PGA member for 29 years here in the New England Section. I am fortunate to have been at my current job since 1998. While I have never won a section award I have been awarded numerous Maine Chapter awards over the years.
2002-2018 Golf Digest Best Teacher in State, 2020 and 2021 Maine Chapter Merchandiser of Year Public, 2020 Maine Chapter Teacher of the Year, 2018 Maine Chapter Patriot Award, 2017 Maine Chapter Teacher of the Year, 2011 Maine Golf Professional of the Year, 2011 PGA Professional Championship, 1994 Maine Chapter Champion.
What is the name of the organization or program you would like to highlight?
My favorite group to work with here at Waterville Country Club is the Travis Mills Foundation. This is a retreat for wounded warriors that brings families to Maine for a week-long trip to get away. I am fortunate to be able to work with the families to help them enjoy the game of golf. Each week the families come to the club and do a clinic and play some holes. travismillsfoundation.org is their website.
How long have you been active with your charitable organization?
7 years.
What is the most rewarding thing about giving back to the community?
My time spent with the soldiers and families is always the highlight of my week!
What other organizations do you support?
IAABO Basketball Officials and NCAA Division 3 official. Special Olympics Golf team practices here at WCC.
How has giving back to the community helped to raise awareness of your facility?
The positive feedback we get from the Travis Mills Foundation is tremendous.
How do you determine which charities to support?
We here at the club really try to help as many causes as possible. With all our clubs being so busy it is really important to finds groups that can fit into our times. These groups are usually very flexible and work around our schedule.