Our Mission
Links to Freedom improves the physical, emotional, and social well-being of wounded, ill, and injured service members and veterans, together with eligible family members and caregivers, surviving spouses, and Gold Star families.
Through adaptive golf instruction led by PGA of America and LPGA Professionals, recreation-based rehabilitation, camaraderie, and ongoing community support, participants can build skills, confidence, meaningful relationships, and a lasting connection to the game of golf.
Our programs welcome individuals with visible and invisible wounds and other life challenges that may benefit from adaptive instruction and a supportive community. Links to Freedom is committed to providing an inclusive environment in which participants of all abilities can engage safely and successfully.
About Links to Freedom
Millions of veterans in the United States are navigating service-related injuries, illnesses, invisible wounds, and other life challenges while reconnecting with their families and communities.
Because of its proximity to the Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Fort Belvoir Golf Club's Head Professional at the time, Steve Greiner, saw the need for a rehabilitative golf program up close. He watched veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan with physical and mental wounds of war and thought he could help.
In 2008, Steve established the Fort Belvoir Wounded Warrior Golf Program. In the years since, an operating model has been developed that is compatible with many existing golf programs at military installations as well as private and community golf programs. Using this model, military, private and community golf facilities can increase the number of wounded, ill, and injured service members and veterans and their families participating in golf activities, and provide benefit from the program's rehabilitative effects.
This proven model brings together Links to Freedom, golf professionals, host facilities, volunteers, community partners, and supporters to serve wounded, ill, and injured service members and veterans and their eligible families and caregivers. Through partnerships with military, public, private, and community golf facilities, Links to Freedom works to expand access to adaptive golf instruction, recreation-based rehabilitation, camaraderie, and long-term community support.
Links to Freedom HERO Model
LInks to Freedom developed the HERO model, a four-part program that applies the physical, emotional and social aspects of rehabilitation that is easily adaptable to existing programs and facilities.
Healthy Activities - Adaptive golf encourages movement, skill development, confidence, and active participation.
Expand Horizons - Participants build supportive relationships, friendships, and connections that extend beyond the golf course.
Reintegrate - The program supports service members, veterans, and their families as they strengthen connections with their communities and pursue long-term well-being.
Operationalize the Program - Links to Freedom develops adaptable program practices that can be implemented in partnership with military, public, private, and community golf facilities.