Houston Golf Association and tournament title sponsor Shell Oil Company share great pride in the impact HGA's fundraising efforts have on the local community. The 2008 Shell Houston open generated more than $2.395 million for local worthy causes.

Since 1974 HGA volunteers have helped generate more than $51.6 million for local worthy causes through golf promotion. In addition to the charity dollars derived from the Shell Houston Open, the Houston Golf Association also funds other programs that reach out into the community.

The HGA's Patrons of Junior Golf program has awarded more than $375,000 in academic scholarships since 1996. Nine youngsters are currently on grants from this program. These scholarships are awarded based on need and academics. Playing ability does not enter into the selection process.

HGA's most recent community service project is The First Tee Houston/Redstone Chapter. With support from The Redstone Companies and title sponsor Shell Oil Company, the HGA is steadily establishing one of the finest facilities in the country for this no-cost program.

Four school districts -- Humble, Aldine, Galena Park and Clear Creek -- now teach The First Tee Nine Core Values program in selected elementary school physical education classes. More than 50,000 youngsters will be impaced by the program in the 2008-2009 school year.

Local organizations which receive annual support from tournament proceeds are:

HGA Core Charities

• Acres Home Youth Association
• Boys and Girls Harbor, Inc.
• Cenikor Foundation, Inc. 
• Chinquapin School 
• Interfaith Center of The Woodlands  
• Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Texas Golf Coast & Louisiana 
• Star of Hope