By Doug Milne
While the prospect of an exciting final round of the DICK’s Open loomed large at En-Joie Golf Course Sunday morning, something far more important in size and scope kicked of the inspiration and enthusiasm of the day.
On site to honor the men and women of the military was Folds of Honor, an organization which – among many other things – provides life-changing educational scholarships to the spouses and children of America’s fallen or disabled military service members and first responders.
Led by Folds of Honor Director of Golf Relations, Scott Tolley was on site to help pledge 13 scholarships in the DICK’S Open footprint—one for each fold that brings our American flag to its triangle shape.
“At Folds of Honor, we provide hope and healing through education, because there is no greater pathway to opportunity than education, Tolley said. “Nelson Mandela once said, ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.’.”
Last year, Folds of Honor awarded a record 11,000 scholarships, valued at more than $53 million. In New York alone, the organization awarded 209 scholarships worth nearly $1 million.
One of those recipients was on site at En-Joie Sunday.
From Albany, Grace Therese Pastino is the proud daughter of New York State Police Sgt. Ronald Albert Pastino.
Following the attacks of September 11, Sgt. Pastino spent months in New York City assisting with recovery efforts. After inhaling toxic smoke and debris, he developed a serious lung disease which resulted in the loss of a quarter of his right lung. It also forced him to retire after more than 20 years of distinguished service.
Because of Folds of Honor scholarships, Grace and her twin brother, Evan, were both able to attend college.
Today, Evan is in the Academy preparing for a career with the United States Secret Service.
Last month, Grace earned her master’s degree in Dietetics and Nutrition from SUNY Oneonta. In two weeks, she’ll take her exam to become a registered dietitian.
“Golf has always been a remarkable force for good, raising nearly $4 billion annually for charity—more than all other professional sports combined,” Tolley noted. “Nearly 70 percent of Folds of Honor’s funding is directly or indirectly connected to the game of golf.”
Thanks to Anheuser-Busch and Rocco J. Testani Incorporated, an additional $10,000 was provided, allowing for two more scholarships for families in this community.
Anheuser-Busch has been Folds of Honor’s longest and most impactful partner. For the past 16 years, Anheuser-Busch, its wholesalers and partners have contributed more than $37 million, funding over 7,400 scholarships.
“Since 2007, Folds of Honor has awarded nearly 73,000 scholarships worth more than $340 million, including more than 1,300 scholarships throughout New York.
Even though those numbers are worth celebrating, the reality is that need still outweighs availability.
“While we expect to award a record 12,000 scholarships worth more than $65 million this year, nearly 10,000 qualified applicants still won’t receive full funding because the resources simply aren’t there,” Tolley said. “Those aren’t just statistics. They’re families waiting for opportunity.”
According to Tolley, that keeps Folds of Honor motivated and moving full speed ahead.
“It’s why today matters,” Tolley said. “It’s why we wear red, white and blue—not simply to celebrate service, but to accept our responsibility to those who have already sacrificed so much.”