Birdies for Charity Kicks Off Another Season of Golf & Giving at the John Deere Classic
Smart Lexus of Quad Cities to Provide 2-Year Lease on a Lexus to a Lucky Winner
Following another record-breaking year, the John Deere Classic’s Birdies for Charity program officially launched its 32nd season today, with the goal of raising millions of dollars for some 500 local and regional charities.
“Birdies for Charity transforms the John Deere Classic into a philanthropic force within our community,” said John Deere Classic Tournament Director Andrew Lehman. “We believe that by investing in our participating charitable organizations, we can help foster a vibrant and thriving community. The 480 local charities that benefit from this program span a wide range of causes, from education and health care to environmental conservation and youth development. This holistic approach ensures that every facet of our community is enriched.”
Participating charities will not incur any administrative fees, ensuring that 100% of all donations directly support them. Furthermore, charities are promised a minimum bonus of 5%, and potentially up to 10% of the money they raise. To support this promise, the John Deere Classic continues to fundraise for the Bonus Fund year-round. “By eliminating administrative fees and providing additional bonus money, the initiative not only inspires generosity but also strengthens the sustainability and success of charitable organizations,” said Birdies for Charity Director Micaela Booth.
Birdies for Charity will accept new charities into the program until May 30, according to Booth. Eligible charities must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located within 125 miles of Silvis, Illinois, the home of the John Deere Classic.
The Bonus Fund is crucial to the program’s appeal and effectiveness, as it serves as the funding source that provides a bonus match each year. Both donors and charities can be confident that their gifts will be amplified through Birdies for Charity.
“The Platinum Tee Club presents an excellent opportunity for those wishing to support the Bonus Fund,” Booth explained. “Donations for the Platinum Tee Club start at $750, with higher levels over $1,500 granting exclusive tournament experiences. In addition to the Platinum Tee Club, contributions of any size to the Bonus Fund are instrumental in achieving our goals. Every extra dollar is essential for supporting local nonprofits.”
“John Deere’s unwavering support is fundamental to the success of Birdies for Charity,” said Lehman. “By covering the program’s administrative costs, they ensure that charities receive 100% of the donations. Additionally, John Deere’s generous matching grant of $325,000 to the Bonus Fund amplifies the impact of every contribution. This level of commitment has been essential in helping us achieve the remarkable success we see today.”
Grand Prize sponsor Smart Lexus of Quad Cities once again will provide a two-year lease on a Lexus to one lucky winner who correctly guesses the exact number of birdies recorded at this year’s tournament from Wednesday’s Pro-Am through Sunday’s final round. Contest entries will be due by June 27. Official rules and contest details can be found at birdiesforcharity.com/about/contest.
“We are thrilled to have Smart Lexus of Quad Cities back as Official Transportation Sponsor,” said Lehman. “Their generous offer of a two-year lease on a Lexus for one lucky donor adds an exciting incentive for charity donors. Additionally, Smart Lexus provides courtesy cars to John Deere Classic contestants thereby enhancing their experience and elevating the tournament’s prestige. This partnership is a win-win for everyone involved.”
For more information, or to donate, visit the official Birdies for Charity website at BirdiesforCharity.com.
The 54th edition of the Quad Cities’ PGA Tour event will be played the week of July 2-6 at TPC Deere Run in Silvis with Davis Thompson as defending champion.
The John Deere Classic, which includes Birdies for Charity, is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization located in the John Deere Classic tournament offices at 15623 Coaltown Road, East Moline, Illinois. Since its founding in 1971, the tournament has helped raise more than $174 million for charity.