PGA HOPE Spotlight: Jonathan Shoffner
Changing Veteran’s Lives One Swing at A Time
Nothing brings greater joy to PGA HOPE Lead Instructor Jonathan Shoffner than seeing the smiles on the veterans' faces while learning the game of golf.
Since becoming a PGA of America Member in 2016, Jonathan has been growing the game and sharing his joy of the game every day. Jonathan first started playing golf when he was 10 years old thanks to his grandfather Jasper Greeson. Jasper was a United States Army Veteran and Purple Heart recipient without whom Jonathan would have never had the opportunity to learn the game of golf.
Once in the golf industry, Jonathan was driven by his relationship with his grandfather and his passion to give back to those who have served our country. This drive led Jonathan to find a way to give back with PGA HOPE. Through PGA HOPE Jonathan has been able to impact over 100 veterans’ lives. He has embraced the values of PGA HOPE and his service to our veteran community and uses it as a fountain of constant inspiration.
“I am inspired by a veterans' desire to learn the game of golf for the first time. The sacrifices they made to our country inspire me to be a better person,” states Shoffner, PGA Teaching Professional at The Clubs at Kingwood.
Entering 2023, Jonathan had a goal to not only impact veterans through PGA HOPE programming but also to provide a post-graduation experience to keep these veterans on the golf course. Jonathan executed this goal by creating the first annual Veteran Cup that featured over 70 veterans in its inaugural playing. Another great achievement was being recognized as the 2023 Southern Texas PGA Patriot Award recipient.
“This award truly is special to me,” said Shoffner. “It is an honor to be able to provide golf instruction to the veterans who have served our country, and even more special to be recognized for it.”
Apart from Jonathan’s service at a Section level, he has worked over the years to provide as many opportunities to veterans as possible. Through this mission, Jonathan has supported Folds of Honor by raising over $50,000 in donations, competed in a 100-hole golf marathon to raise funds for veteran organizations, and provided free 30-minute lessons to veterans at the club.
“I would like to continue to grow the veterans program not only at The Clubs of Kingwood but throughout the community,” said Shoffner when asked about his goals.
Jonathan truly is an example to follow when it comes to finding your passion and giving back to your community. Jonathan views golf as an outlet for all ages, races, and genders. He has the personal philosophy that anyone can learn the game at any age and circumstance if given the opportunity. If there is one thing Jonathan hopes people embrace, it is to, “Be all that you can be to everyone you encounter. Serve, give, and bring joy to as many people as possible.”
