CHANGE THE GAME
HIPE, Inc. is an IL nonprofit corporation operating through a fiscal sponsorship with Players Philanthropy Fund, a Maryland charitable trust recognized by IRS as a tax-exempt public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (Federal Tax ID: 27-6601178, ppf.org/pp). Contributions to HIPE are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
#HIPE
is a social impact organization that utilizes sport and storytelling to Help Inspire People Everywhere.
#HIPEGOLF
is our grassroots initiative to sustainably diversify the game on both the youth and professional levels.
INITIATIVES
#ThePlayers
Supporting elite minority golfers on their journeys to thrive on golf’s biggest stage is an essential part of the growth of the game. Relatable, aspirational figures help model pathways of success, driving demand and retention in the sport. We partner with professional organizations with a commitment to facilitating this end goal.
#TheIndustry
Creating more impactful diversity in the golf work culture is a foundational step in increasing the reach and impact of the game. Broadening cultural awareness and representation increases strength, visibility, and opportunities for change. We partner with companies that have a vested commitment to diversity and believe in its impacts.
#TheCommunity
Developing exposure and networking opportunities to expand diversity and increase participation, especially amongst millennials, is an essential way to grow the game. We host collaborative event series, outings, and trips to help grow and strengthen the sense of community around the game, which will benefit the game as as whole.
#TheFuture
Equally as important as increasing at-risk youth exposure opportunities to the game is creating sustainable solutions for retention. Ease of access to the game and resources harshly stifle impactful introductory efforts. We support youth organizations that have unique solutions to not only get kids on the course, but keep them there.
Player Spotlight
Willie Mack III
Born in Flint, MI, Mack was a very accomplished amateur and collegiate golfer. He was the first ever black golfer to win the Michigan State Am, and, during his time at Bethune Cookman, won 12 collegiate titles.
Mack’s professional career includes more than 30 wins internationally across an array of tours. In 2019 Mack won player of the year honors on the APGA Tour, finishing in the top 10 in 6 of 7 starts which included two wins and two runner up finishes.
In 2020, Mack received a 2-year sponsorship deal from Farmers Insurance that will cover his playing expenses on the APGA Tour
Wayne Birch of Trap Golf
PGA Tour Caddy and Business owner. Wayne captured his first PGA Tour win in 2018 at the Barbasol Championship with Troy Meritt, whom he still caddies for today.
In 2020 Wayne became co-owner of Trap Golf, an urban apparel brand aimed at diversifying but unifying the game through golf, art, and hip-hop culture.
Youth On Course
YOC is a non profit organization that provides $5 green fees for junior golfers at over 1,400 courses. In addition to affordable access, YOC offers caddy, internship, and collegiate scholarship programs to help kids truly grow through and within the game.
YOC is growing and nurturing the next generation of golf.