About Walking For Kids
TAKING THE FIRST STEP TO HELP KIDS
In late 2009, D.J. Gregory formed the Walking For Kids Foundation which allows PGA TOUR Professionals and sports fans the opportunity to support several children’s charities. Some might remember the great journey that D.J. started on TOUR back in 2008. By the end of his journey in late 2008, D.J. had walked well over 988 miles and followed 3,256 holes on TOUR. Players, fans, and people from around the world took notice of D.J. and his accomplishment.
D.J. Gregory fell in love with golf at the age of twelve, when he first began watching the game on television and attending local tournaments with his dad. But unlike other golf fans, D.J. never dreamed of playing professionally, becoming a ranked amateur, or even a caddie. When D.J. was an infant, doctors told his parents that he would probably spend his life in a wheelchair because of cerebral palsy. But that didn't keep D.J. from trying to beat the odds; he endured five surgeries and learned to walk with a cane.
The Decision to
Pursue a Dream
Golf had always remained D.J.'s passion, and in 2008, he decided to make a dream come true—to travel the country and walk with a different player at each event on the PGA TOUR.
How does the Foundation Raise Money?
There are numerous ways The Walking For Kids Foundation raises money each year. Throughout the PGA TOUR season, players pick a tournament they are participating in and pledge money for each eagle and birdie they make that week. D.J. also holds a golf tournament each year where golf enthusiasts have the opportunity to play with PGA TOUR players, celebrities, and with D.J. himself. The WFKF also receives numerous donations from people through the country who are inspired by D.J. and want to participate in his mission to help children.
"It's going to take an awful lot in golf to be a better story than D.J. Gregory. It is the defining story of 2008," said sports commentator Jim Nantz. "D.J. is sending a message to people about determination and faith and vision and courage. I really believe we're all eyewitnesses to something that will be a movie someday."
May 21, 2008
"He has helped people understand how passionate people feel about the PGA TOUR and its players," PGA TOUR Vice President Ty Votaw says about D.J. "He's an inspirational story."
May 21, 2008
When asked about the starting the Foundation D.J. Gregory commented, "After some thought and discussions I have decided to start my own Foundation and raise money for children’s charities from coast to coast. The goal of my Foundation will be to raise money and help children of all ages realize and live out their dreams and goals, as I did in 2008."
D.J. challenges you to take the first step and donate to the Walking For Kids Foundation.