News
Hall of Fame Golfer and Founder of the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation Passes Away at 88
Clearwater, FL – Today, we mourn the loss of our co-founder Juan Antonio "Chi Chi" Rodriguez, the legendary golfer and philanthropist. A beloved figure both on and off the course, Chi Chi's legacy transcends his accolades as one of golf's most iconic figures. His impact on the sport and his dedication to the youth of Pinellas County through the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation will be carried on for generations to come.
Chi Chi's remarkable career in golf is highlighted by his numerous accomplishments, which can be explored in detail here. But for those who knew him best, it was his heart for giving back that truly defined him.
In 1979, Chi Chi co-founded the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation with a mission to provide at-risk youth with educational opportunities and life skills training through the game of golf. His vision was clear: to create a safe, nurturing environment where children could learn, grow, and develop the confidence to succeed in life. Over the years, Chi Chi built a strong partnership with the City of Clearwater and the Pinellas County School System, solidifying the Foundation's role as a pillar of the community.
Today, the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation is celebrating its 45th year, a testament to the enduring impact of Chi Chi's work. The Foundation's Board of Directors continues to thrive, ensuring the organization flourishes. This year, we are proud to expand our programs, increasing our capacity to welcome 108 students into our Pinellas County school. Through partnerships with the PGA Tour and First Tee, the Youth Foundation has also been instrumental in teaching golf and life skills to tens of thousands of kids. Chi Chi's passion for empowering young people through golf has touched countless lives, and his spirit will continue to inspire the work of the Foundation.
Looking to the future, the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation remains committed to fulfilling the mission that Chi Chi so passionately championed. “With plans for a larger school and expanded programming, we will continue to build on the legacy he left us. His dream of helping children realize their potential will live on.” - James Poulter (CEO)
To learn more about the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation’s mission, visit www.chichi.org.
For the official statement from the family of Chi Chi Rodriguez, please click here.
As we mourn the loss of a great man, we also celebrate the incredible life he lived and the profound impact he had on so many. Rest in peace, Chi Chi. Your legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.
James Poulter
Chief Executive Officer
Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation
james@chichi.org
Awards
In addition to being recognized in the press locally and nationally by ABC, NBC, CBS, CNN, and the Oprah Winfrey show, we have earned a number of awards, listed below.
Chi Chi Rodriguez has also earned several personal awards for his humanitarian efforts in relation to his work at the Youth Foundation.
2011
The Chi Chi Rodriguez Academy earned the highest rating from the Florida Department of Education based upon Florida’s Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) scores
2014
The Academy was the only dropout prevention model school in Pinellas County to receive an overall improving grade for the 2013-2014 school year. This is equivalent to an A rated school.
2015
The Youth Foundation recognized as the Safety Harbor Chamber of Commerce Non Profit of the Year.
2016
The Youth Foundation receives Medium Non Profit of the Year from Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce.
2017
The Golf Club is recognized as Course of the Year Finalist for National Golf Course Owners Association.
The Youth Foundation receives Medium Business of the Year from Upper Tampa Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce.
2019
The Youth Foundation awarded Upper Tampa Bay Cup - for a business or person who has gone over and above in the community - from Upper Tampa Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce.
2020
The Youth Foundation receives Non Profit of the Year from Safety Harbor Chamber of Commerce.
1986
The National Golf Foundation Award for the Best Youth Program in the United States.
1990
Pinellas County Sports Salute XVIII for working with youth.
1992
The 758th Point of Light from President Bush’s Points of Light, awarded to Chi Chi’s volunteers and staff.
1993
The Garnett Company’s USA Weekend Most Valuable Athlete Award, based on an athlete’s contribution, caring, and commitment off the field.
1994
Chi Chi Rodriguez recognized as an inaugural inductee into the World Humanitarian Hall of Fame. The World Sports Humanitarian Hall of Fame honors individuals and organizations from the world of amateur and professional athletics who, through their humanitarian efforts, distinguish themselves as role models in the community.
1996
The Robie Award for Humanitarianism presented by the
Jackie Robinson Foundation.
2010
The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute honored Puerto Rican golf legend Juan “Chi Chi” Rodriguez, with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute Service Award for his ongoing commitment to providing opportunities for Latino youth to succeed.