Congaree Foundation

Congaree Foundation

The Congaree Foundation was developed with the philanthropic mission to positively impact the lives of young people, locally and around the globe, by providing educational and vocational opportunities through the game of golf.  The Foundation does this through several programs and partnerships that operate at both an international scale and close to home, addressing critical needs such as education, professional development, and food insecurity.  

Congaree Global Golf Initiative

The Foundation’s signature program is the Congaree Global Golf Initiative (CGGI).  Founded in 2017, CGGI’s vision is to provide underserved high school students access to the highest level of athletic training and academic counseling to enhance their opportunities for success through school and beyond.  CGGI makes a 10+ year investment in each participant that begins with college readiness and placement, continues as a support system throughout college, and evolves to include mentorship from Congaree Ambassadors to help each participant graduate and have a successful start to their early careers.

CGGI starts with a weeklong camp during the summer in South Carolina or Scotland to introduce participants to all advisors and instructors. Students work with the CGGI team through college placement while receiving:

  • Advisement through college recruitment, application and selection process
  • Preparation for SAT / ACT exams
  • Assistance building college and golf resumes
  • Golf instruction, mental coaching, and fitness planning
  • Access to top coaches, advisors, and professional mentors

The CGGI network currently includes 300 participants from 35 countries and 35 states.  CGGI participants have been awarded $6.3 million in total scholarship money toward their college education, while 97% of age-eligible participants are currently enrolled or have graduated from college.  106 participants are playing or have played collegiate golf for 80 different schools.  These schools include Clemson, Oklahoma, Texas, Kentucky, Rutgers, College of Charleston, Howard, and Southern, among others.  

CGGI Nominations – Now Being Accepted

Students are nominated annually and there is no cost to participants to attend.

Nominations for the 2026 CGGI Class are currently being accepted through November 30th.  Priority consideration is given to nominees who:

  • Are graduating high school in 2027, 2028, or 2029 
  • Have limited financial resources to pursue a college education in the U.S. 
  • Excel in the classroom and are committed to receiving a college education 
  • Demonstrate the ability to play golf at the collegiate level 
  • Are proficient in the English language

The Congaree Foundation invites you to share and nominate young people for this life-changing opportunity through the link below.  

CGGI Nomination Form   (https://form.jotform.com/240704400408141)  

To learn more about the Congaree Foundation and Congaree Global Golf Initiative, please visit www.congareefoundation.org.