 “It is almost impossible to remember how tragic a place this world is when one is playing golf”. - Robert Lynd Diamonds in the Rough was established in 1998 with the mission to ensure that all youth, regardless of social/economic background have an opportunity to learn and play the game of golf. The organization was founded through the inspiration and collaborative efforts of a local group of community advocates and golf enthusiasts, including the Hollywood City Manager’s Office; Cameron Benson, Assistant City Manager; the Department of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts; Hollywood Police Department and the management team of Orangebrook Golf and Country Club.
Over the past 11 years, youth participants have had the benefit of access to Orangebrook Golf and Country Club’s 18-hole golf course and equipment as they are guided by PGA Professional golfers in instruction, swing mechanics, rules and etiquette. Diamond’s in the Rough’s unique approach to mentoring and sportsmanship has enriched the lives of thousands of local area children from all walks of life. Our participants are selected from a number of local organizations, such as the City of Hollywood camps, Greater Hollywood YMCA, Hollywood Boys and Girls Club, West Park Boys and Girls Club, Memorial Hospital’s Youth Force Program, Hispanic Unity and the VFW Post 8195.
Since our inception in 1998, Diamonds in the Rough has developed into a comprehensive program that not only teaches area youth basic golf skills and rules, but also creates a platform to instill the game’s inherent positive values. Honesty, integrity, respect, patience, sportsmanship, perseverance, confidence, responsibility and good judgment are all integral lessons of the program. So, children take away the skills of the game, as well as, ideals they can cherish for a lifetime.
Our efforts to bring the joy of golf to children, regardless of social or economic background, has been supported by local organizations and individuals throughout South Florida. We have also had the privilege of receiving financial support from the Police Forfeiture Funds, as well as, Florida Sports Foundation Junior Golf Grants. Our annual golf tournament, co-sponsored by the Hollywood Junior Chamber Jaycees, provides funding for our Summer Youth Golf Program. Last summer, 478 children participated in our program thanks to the generosity of our sponsors.
DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH YOUTH GOLF PROGRAM BOARD OF DIRECTORS
c/o Orangebrook Golf & Country Club
400 Entrada Drive, Hollywood, FL 33021
Michele Smith, Executive Director
Board of Directors
Kevin Biederman, President
Pest Pro Services |
Mark Smith,Vice President
Memorial Regional
Joe DeMaggio Children’s Hospital
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Charles Howell CPA, Treasurer
Medicare Specialist |
Kathy Zuendel,Secretary |
Linda Goberna
City of Hollywood Recreation Manager |
David Kout, PA |
Jamie Mardis
Sidram Power |
Bob King |
| Leo Demers |
Don Glasgow,Webmaster
American Creative |
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Board Liaisons
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Cameron Benson
City Manager
City of Hollywood |
Chuck Ellis
Director
Dept. of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts |
Doug Preston
Executive Director
JCD Sports Group |
Ira Glick
General Manager
Orangebrook Golf & Country Club |
Bob Mallek
Head Golf Professional
Orangebrook Golf & Country Club |
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