PDGA Task Force Continues to Foster Diversity and Inclusion in Disc Golf

As the PDGA Diversity and Outreach Task Force enters its second year, it's clear that their efforts are making a significant impact on the disc golf community. Established in January 2021 by Justin Menickelli, then President of the PDGA Board of Directors, the task force has been working tirelessly to promote diversity and inclusion within the sport.

One notable achievement is the success of the Diversity and Outreach Grant Program, which funded six projects throughout the country in 2021. These initiatives ranged from promoting women's disc golf during the PDGA's Women's Global Event, which saw record-breaking participation, to establishing disc golf programs in underserved areas such as the Qualla Boundary in North Carolina.

The program has already provided over $15,000 in funding for these projects, with two more being lined up for 2022. According to Menickelli, a key goal of the Diversity and Outreach Grant Program is to encourage members to develop innovative ways to increase diversity within the PDGA membership. This includes providing financial support for new projects that target under-represented groups such as Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC), as well as women and girls.

The grant selection process involves a thorough review by the task force, which comprises a diverse group of six women and five men from varying age groups. A key consideration in this process is that each project must reach a historically under-represented group within the PDGA membership.

One of the notable aspects of the Diversity and Outreach Grant Program is its rolling application process, which allows for ongoing submissions throughout the year. Grants are awarded until all available funds have been exhausted, ensuring that as many deserving projects as possible receive support.

Looking ahead to 2022, the task force will be transitioning into a standing committee within the PDGA, solidifying their commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in disc golf.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/diversity-and-outreach-program-enters-second-year