Foundation Origins
The RNJ – Gift of Golf Foundation was created in memory of Ricki Neil-Jones. Ricki was a professional golfer, who turned to teaching after passing his PGA Qualification. We aim to continue Ricki’s legacy by supporting children of all ages and sharing Ricki’s golfing knowledge and expertise.
Foundation Days
RNJ – The Gift of Golf Foundation is working with local schools to identify young vulnerable children, who deserve a break from their normal daily challenges. Some children have lost parents, have terminally ill parents or are child carers to family members. We want to give these kids a break.
A typical Foundation Day involves a day off school to participate in PGA Professional run golf tuition at local golf clubs and driving ranges, a trip to experience wall climbing and trampolining, and a game of crazy golf.
The children’s confidence grows throughout the day, building new friendships, growing their self-esteem, social skills and personal development through the activities of our Foundation Days.
Gift of Golf Day
Until now, the Foundation has been fully funded by the generosity of family,
friends, colleagues and associates of Ricki by attending and participating in
our annual RNJ – The Gift of Golf Day. The first year this was held at Pedham Place, who kindly donated their course to the event. We attracted over 220 golfers, including many professionals, plus many volunteers to raise money to help the most vulnerable children.
The Day has now become an annual event, with Redlibbets kindly hosting in 2019 and Rochester & Cobham in 2020. The money helps fund many youngsters to have a day as a normal child, being able to laugh and run around, without the burden of their situation weighing them down.