Range Fore Hope Foundation is a 501 (c) (3)
Supporting Active Duty & Veterans through Golf Events & Initiatives
Mission
At the Range Fore Hope Foundation (RFHF), we believe in the power of recreational therapy to heal and connect. Our mission is to serve the entire military and adaptive communities, offering a holistic approach that helps families cope with the effects of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) while providing essential access to financial and health resources for overall well-being of the population we serve. We are dedicated to bridging the gap between military service and civilian life, with a focus on supporting low to moderate income (LMI) Veterans and their families who are 80% below the area median income receive programs, services, and resources that will enhance their quality of life.
Our Goals
Join us as we continue to transform fairways into pathways of hope, healing, and opportunity for our military community.
- 01. Expand therapeutic golf programs to grow our service to beyond 2,000 Veterans and their family members annually by 2026.
- 02. Establish partnerships with additional healthcare systems across the state to implement whole health literacy programs.
- 03. Launch a comprehensive financial literacy program in collaboration with First Citizens Bank, aiming to educate low to moderate income Veterans and their families.
- 04. Develop and implement a homebuyer education curriculum specifically tailored for Veterans and the service members settling locally in the Midlands, with a goal of assisting military families in achieving homeownership each year.
- 05. Increase the number of adaptive golf equipment available, including Paragolfer Adaptive Golf Carts, to accommodate 200% more adaptive golfers in RFHF programs by 2027.
- 06. Create a mentorship program pairing experienced golfers with new participants, fostering a supportive community for Veterans and family members annually.
- 07. Organize quarterly community resource events in partnership with local organizations, connecting Veterans and their families to essential services each year.
- 08. Expand the "Golf After Dark" networking events to new locations with new community partners, facilitating professional connections for Veterans and supporters annually.
Our History
Origins and Early Development
In 2018, retiring US Army First Sergeant Alvin King founded "King Fore A Day," a charity golf tournament benefiting local veteran organizations in South Carolina. The inaugural event on September 11, 2018, at Cobblestone Park Golf Club in Blythewood, SC, attracted nearly 50 golfers and raised $1,000 for Project Josiah (now Hidden Wounds).
Foundation Establishment
In December 2020, King, along with Tim Shannon, Tom Gawinski, and Rebekah Gawinski, met to discuss creating a more comprehensive organization. They named it Range Fore Hope Foundation, emphasizing family inclusion. King swiftly established the foundation's legal and operational framework, securing an EIN, business license, and 501(c)(3) status.
Community Impact
Throughout its history, RFHF has consistently demonstrated its commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion. The foundation's programs have positively impacted thousands of Active-Duty Service Members, Veterans, and their families, providing free access to golf as a therapeutic and recreational activity. Range Fore Hope Foundation continues to grow and evolve, maintaining its focus on using golf to support and empower the military community in South Carolina and beyond.
Expansion and Vision
King's participation in the PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) program in 2019 inspired him to expand his vision. He recognized the potential of golf as a therapeutic outlet for Veterans and their families. The 2nd Annual King Fore A Day event raised funds for both Project Josiah and PGA HOPE.
Growth and Programs
RFHF launched its first golf lessons in spring 2021 at Cobblestone Park Golf Club and James Clyburn Golf Center, attracting over 100 participants in just three months. The 4th Annual King Fore A Day event marked RFHF's debut as the primary organizer. In 2022, RFHF expanded its programs, serving over 300 participants. The foundation also ventured into adaptive golf, collaborating with other programs across South Carolina. RFHF acquired adaptive golf equipment, including a Paragolfer and a Solorider, to support these initiatives.
Recent Developments
By 2023, RFHF had significantly grown its reach and resources. The foundation hosted multiple sold-out events, expanded its lesson programs, and acquired additional adaptive golf equipment. RFHF also secured a trailer and vehicle to support its operations. In 2024, RFHF added Fort Jackson as a third lesson location and established formal partnerships through Memorandums of Understanding with various organizations, including the City of Columbia, South Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Department of Veterans Affairs (Dorn VA).
"Operation Home & Health"
Operation Home and Health is Range Fore Hope Foundation’s comprehensive initiative launched in 2025 to address the multifaceted needs of our military and Veteran communities. This program expands our mission beyond therapeutic golf, offering a holistic approach to well-being and community integration. Operation Home and Health encompasses whole health literacy programs in partnership with VA healthcare systems, financial literacy education in collaboration with First Citizens Bank, and homebuyer education tailored for Veterans. Additionally, it includes community resource events connecting veterans to essential services, and networking opportunities through expanded “Golf After Dark” events. By focusing on physical, mental, and financial wellness, as well as community engagement, Operation Home and Health aims to empower low to moderate income Veterans and their families, providing them with the tools and resources needed to thrive in civilian life.
Our Initiatives
Recreational Therapy Through Golf
Homebuyer Education
Whole Health Literacy
Financial Literacy Workshops
Community Involvement
Community Resource Events
Our Commitment
At RFHF, we recognize that healing is a comprehensive journey. Our diverse programs and resources, enhanced by strong community partnerships, are designed to meet the unique needs of Active Duty Service Members, Veterans, military families, and adaptive golfers. We prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion in all our initiatives.
Our Approach
Holistic Support
We focus on the physical, mental, and social well-being of our participants, believing that true healing begins within the family unit.
Empowerment and Growth
Our mission is to equip Veterans and their families with the tools they need to thrive in their communities. We invite you to take full advantage of our extensive offerings and resources.
Social Connection
Golf provides a unique opportunity for Veterans to connect with peers who share similar experiences. Our programs encourage camaraderie and friendship, helping to combat feelings of isolation. Participants often form lasting bonds that extend beyond the golf course.
Family Involvement
We prioritize family inclusion in our programs, recognizing the importance of shared activities in strengthening relationships. Golf allows families to engage together, creating positive interactions and support systems.
The Benefits
Physical Benefits
Golf encourages physical activity, improving mobility, coordination, and overall fitness. The gentle movements involved in swinging a club help enhance muscle strength and joint flexibility, making it an ideal form of exercise for veterans recovering from injuries.
Mental Well-Being
The serene environment of the golf course offers a peaceful escape from daily stressors. Engaging in golf promotes mindfulness, allowing participants to focus on the present moment. This practice can significantly reduce anxiety and depression, fostering a sense of calm and relaxation.
Community Engagement
Our events bring Veterans together with the wider community, fostering understanding and respect. By participating in Adaptive golf programs, Veterans can bridge gaps between military and civilian life, enhancing their social reintegration.Join us at Range Fore Hope Foundation to experience firsthand how golf can be a powerful tool for healing and connection. Together, we can support our Veterans on their journey toward renewed purpose and well-being. This content highlights the multifaceted therapeutic benefits of golf while appealing to both Veterans and their families.
