Golf has always had a history of giving back to society. Billions of dollars are raised annually for charities across the country through the sport.

According to a 2016 study by the National Golf Foundation, golf as a local fundraising vehicle included 12,700 golf facilities, 143,000 events, 12 million participants and $3.9 billion raised.

Golf events raise significant amounts of money and are relatively easy to organize. Golf provides great exposure and public awareness of the charity.

Playing in charity events is a significant way to contribute to society and its gives the golfer exposure and networking opportunities. It is a terrific way to be with business clients in a non-formal setting. It is also a good way for friends to get together for a good cause.

These events are always fun with low stress. They are typically scramble events that provide both beginners and avid golfers a chance to be with friends.

Locally there are charity golf events almost every weekend at both public and private facilities. Recently I sponsored a charity event, along with my Chicks with Sticks Ladies Group, for Alzheimer’s awareness.

More than 30 local businesses donated items for the auction, and all the ladies donated items for the auction and raffle.

We were able to raise more than $4,000 for this disease with no cure. We hope our modest contribution will help find a cure for Alzheimer’s in the near future. Everyone left the event happy and feeling that they got their money’s worth, all while investing in a charitable cause.

Professional golf tours, both PGA and LPGA, support more than 3,000 charities.

These include charities for youth, military, health, growth of the game, environment, education, community and disaster relief.

Just recently, Stacy Lewis, an LPGA professional, gave her entire first-place winning check to a Hurricane Harvey relief fund.

If you are a golfer, look into playing in a charity event this year. You will have a great time, and your money will go to a good cause.

Dr. Jean Harris is an LPGA Master Professional and teaches at Brown Golf Management courses. jean.golfdoctor.harris @gmail.com; www.golfdoctorjean.com