Origin
A Tradition of Valuing People
Washington Golf & Country Club, founded in 1894 and one of the oldest country clubs in America, has had a longstanding tradition of greatly valuing it’s employees. The Club as a whole views it’s staff with respect, treasures their presence, and has sought to reward longevity and loyalty in myriad of ways. To that end, the Club has had many examples of employees who have worked for 30, 35, 40, 45, and beyond 50 years.
The original question asked was—How can we go above and beyond basic employment to help our staff in extraordinary circumstances and times of need that are not necessarily covered by their employee benefit program? It is out of this tradition of continuity and valuing staff that The Shield Foundation—a 501(C) 3 charitable organization–was created.
The bylaws ask for the Board to “administer a needs-based financial assistance program to help WGCC employees and their families in times of crisis; to administer a scholarship program; and, to engage in other conduct permitted by an organization….under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code”.
In addition to valuing its staff, Washington Golf & Country Club members value the Club’s history as one of the USGA’s founding members. To that end, The Shield Foundation also seeks to preserve, document, and, where applicable, support the ongoing development of the history of the Club.
The Foundation bylaws require that “the mission is to preserve the unique history of the Washington Golf and Country Club”.
Function
Goverend with Care and Commitment
The Foundation is run by a Board of Governors comprised of no less than 5 and no more than 9 directors. All are Washington Golf & Country Club members—3 to 5 Board members will be Past Presidents. Each Board Member serves a 3 year term and can, if elected, serve concurrent terms.
The Shield Foundation exists to support, uplift, and honor the people who are the heart of Washington Golf & Country Club.