The A. James and Alice B. Clark Foundation, a charitable organization which often invests in nonprofits serving the DMV, is investing $500,000 over two years in the National Links Trust (NLT), which will support the construction of a driving range facility and clubhouse at Rock Creek Park’s golf course in Washington, DC.
“This investment will be truly impactful in support of our strategic capital projects. We are grateful and humbled by the A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation’s commitment to the National Links Trust and the residents of Washington, DC,” says Sinclair Eaddy Jr., president and CEO of NLT, an organization formed to promote and protect affordability, accessibility, and engaging golf courses across the United States.
Occupying northwest and part of northeast DC, Rock Creek Park is the third-oldest national park designated by the federal government. Rock Creek Park manages 99 pieces of land and nearly 3,000 acres, allowing residents to escape city life for a while — and among the park’s land lies Rock Creek Golf Course.
Rock Creek Golf Course is one of three golf clubs operated in the nation’s capital, along with Langston Golf Course, managed by National Capital Parks East, and East Potomac Park Golf Course, a part of the National Mall and Memorial Parks.
NLT signed a 50-year lease with the National Park Service to improve the golf courses and enhance the facilities at these three sites. This is NLT’s first project.
The plans for the Rock Creek course include a new clubhouse structure with space for a pro shop, restrooms, kitchen, and restaurant seating, and a new, double-decker practice driving range. NLT will also host programming, including golf leagues, holiday and summer camps, and community outings.
“Mr. Clark sought to improve the lives of Washington, DC area residents, and we are excited to support The National Links Trust project to improve the three municipal golf courses in Washington, DC. The Rock Creek Park project offers employment opportunities, outdoor recreation, and community programming to engage young residents. We look forward to seeing the hard work of NLT benefit the communities in our city,” says Clark Foundation President and CEO Joe Del Guercio.
The facilities will also support expanded programming for the First Tee of Greater Washington, DC, which aims to empower youth through the game of golf. First Tee is another recipient of a Clark Foundation grant.
Feature image by Mick De Paola
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