American Lake Veterans Golf Course: Volunteer Opportunities!

The American Lake Veterans Golf Course is made possible by a small army of volunteers who believe in the power of golf to heal, to create new possibilities, and to provide the fellowship and camaraderie of warriors.

As veterans learn that playing golf is possible, no matter what their disability, they regain their personal pride of accomplishment, of control, of success—even if it’s just a putt.

The American Lake Veterans Golf Course would not exist without its nearly 200 volunteers. No government funding exists for operation and maintenance of the course, and there is not one single paid employee. Volunteers, ranging in age from 23 to 92, give selflessly of their time to support our servicemen and women regaining hope and strength while playing the great game of golf.

Bound by one common purpose, former privates, retired generals and committed civilians— some with their own disabilities— come together to serve and assist America’s veterans.

Volunteer positions range from management to cutting grass and picking up range balls:

• Administrative / finance / clerical
• Barbeque cooks and helpers
• Check-in counter personnel
• Club repair
• Computer troubleshooting
• Course marshals
• Course starters
• Data entry
• General workman (range balls, etc)
• Grounds maintenance crew (includes grass cutting, sprinkler system, etc)
• Handyman / carpenter
• Janitorial
• Trainers / coaches / assistants
• Vehicle maintenance (mechanics).

Volunteers are eligible to join the golf course (otherwise only open to veterans) and will receive free membership after their first year, if they work at least 160 hours during that period (prorated amounts for interim hours). Grounds maintenance crew receives immediate free golf as an incentive to join a crew.

Interested volunteers may apply in person at the Volunteer Services office in building 9 at the American Lake VA Hospital in Lakewood or can go to http://www.volunteer.va.gov/index.asp and apply on-line. Learn More Here.

There are many volunteer opportunities throughout the VA hospital. All interested parties must fill out an application, be able to pass a federal government background security check and attend a short training session.