About
John Deere Classic week is always exciting. Not just for the tournament, but also for what the tournament means for charities. The Birdies for Charity program transforms the tournament into a philanthropic powerhouse, fueling almost 500 non-profits with millions of dollars of funding. It empowers local 501(c)3 organizations to raise funds without draining their bank accounts with admin fees.
The mission of the John Deere Classic, a not-for-profit corporation, is to conduct a PGA TOUR sanctioned professional golf tournament that will:
- Contribute positively to the quality of life in our community
- Contribute to a more inclusive community and attract more diverse populations to the game of golf
- Provide growing annual financial contributions to charity
- Promote volunteerism
- Provide a positive economic impact to the community
Since 1971, the John Deere Classic has delivered over $189 million to regional charities, most of it through its innovative Birdies for Charity program. No other event on the PGA TOUR does it better — and it’s the generous and hardworking nature of this area that makes it happen!
The Bonus Fund promise…
Plus, the tournament promises a minimum bonus of 5% on all collected pledges, ensuring these charities can make a real difference. This year, all charities will be guaranteed a 5% bonus on amounts up to their prior year pledge total, or $100,000, whichever is greater. The Birdies for Charity Bonus Fund is the source of these bonus dollars. This fund is supported with dollars from tournament revenues, special events, direct donations, and a generous matching grant from John Deere.
If you are a charity…
501(c)(3) organizations in the Quad Cities area and surrounding communities are eligible to participate in the Birdies for Charity program. Once qualified and enrolled, you have the freedom to solicit pledges and know the heavy lifting of invoicing and administration will be handled by the John Deere Classic at no cost to you. You receive 100% of every pledge collected for your organization, plus a 5-10% bonus provided by the Birdies for Charity Bonus Fund. We always strive to do more than the minimum 5% and in 2023, all charities received an 7.5% bonus!
If you are a donor…
It is gratifying to know that your donation is maximized through Birdies for Charity! 100% of your donation goes directly to your selected charity. John Deere covers all administrative costs to make that possible. To make the deal even sweeter, charities are guaranteed a 5% bonus on all pledges they collect, provided by the Birdies for Charity Bonus Fund. There is no more impactful way for you to help your favorite organization(s).
Quad Cities Golf Classic Charitable Foundation is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, EIN #93-1332421, doing business as John Deere Classic & Birdies for Charity.
