Heritage Classic Foundation celebrates giving

While the RBC Heritage draws attention each year for its place on the PGA TOUR schedule, the tournament’s charitable arm continues to play a significant role in supporting communities across South Carolina.

The Heritage Classic Foundation, established in 1987 by Hilton Head Island residents, was created to ensure the long-term future of the tournament. Over time, the organization expanded its mission to focus on charitable giving, using proceeds generated by the event to fund local programs and initiatives.
Since its founding, the foundation has distributed more than $61.8 million to charitable organizations, according to foundation data. The organization operates as a nonprofit and directs funding toward a range of community needs, including education, health care and environmental initiatives.

Foundation leaders describe their work as centered on improving quality of life across the state. Funding is organized around several priority areas, including children’s programs, scholarships, health and welfare, arts and culture, environmental causes and education.

In 2025, the foundation reported distributing funding across those categories, including support for health and welfare programs, which received the largest share of contributions. Children’s programs and arts and culture initiatives also received significant funding, along with support for education, environmental efforts and scholarship programs for South Carolina students.

The organization’s scholarship program provides both need-based and merit-based assistance to high school students pursuing higher education. Other funding supports early childhood education, workforce development and access to basic needs such as housing, food and medical care.

Environmental initiatives supported by the foundation include conservation efforts and programs focused on protecting natural resources in the Lowcountry. Arts and cultural funding helps support local museums, performing arts organizations and programs that preserve regional history.

The foundation’s work is closely tied to the success of the RBC Heritage, which serves as its primary fundraising vehicle. Organizers have said the combination of a nationally recognized sporting event and a local philanthropic mission has helped sustain the foundation’s long-term impact.

The Heritage Classic Foundation continues to operate with a focus on expanding its reach while maintaining its role as a central part of the tournament’s identity.

Heritage Classic Foundation Impact

$61.8 million in total charitable distributions
Nearly $135 million annual economic impact
More than 120,000 spectators each year
Founded in 1987

2025 Giving Highlights

Health and welfare: $1.92 million
Children’s programs: $929,000
Arts and culture: $775,500
Education: $363,000
Environment: $243,700
Scholarships: $189,000