A week after the final putt dropped at the 2025 John Deere Classic, tournament officials announced the Quad Cities PGA Tour event has hit a historic milestone – surpassing the $200 million mark in total charitable giving since its inception in 1971.
While the final results of this year’s Birdies for Charity campaign are still being reconciled the JDC said that early projections confirm the tournament surpassed the $200 million mark. The official final results of the 2025 Birdies campaign will be announced in October, the JDC said in a news release today, July 15.
“Reaching $200 million is more than just a number – it’s a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together,” JDC Tournament Director Andrew Lehman said in the release Tuesday. “This milestone reflects the incredible generosity of our community and the lasting impact the tournament has had on our region. We couldn’t have done it without the unwavering support of John Deere, our sponsors, volunteers, and fans, whose commitment continues to drive our mission forward.”
According to the JDC, the momentous achievement – more than five decades in the making – reflects the enduring power of community support, corporate partnership, and a shared commitment to making a meaningful difference.
Ahead of this year’s tournament, both JDC and Birdies leaders already were confident the milestone was in reach. Last year, Birdies carded a record-breaking year by raising a total of $15.97 million that then was distributed to 476 participating Birdies charities across the region.
As of 2024, the JDC had raised more than $189.6 million for charity.
John Deere support key
Of the now $200 million raised over the past 54 years, an astounding 99% has been generated since 1998 when John Deere became the tournament’s title sponsor. According to the JDC release, the Moline-based company’s support has been instrumental in the program’s growth. In addition to long-term sponsorship – which now has been extended to 2030, John Deere also underwrites all administrative costs of the Birdies for Charity program. By doing so, it ensures that 100% of every donor’s pledge goes directly to their chosen charity.
“The heart of the John Deere Classic is the people – the volunteers, fans, and community members who come back year after year to be part of this special event,” John C. May, the chairman and CEO of John Deere, said in the release. “Reaching $200 million in charitable giving shows how much this community cares, and we’re honored to be part of a legacy that makes a real difference in our hometown.”
Fore the Future Gala
To honor the historic achievement and build momentum for the future, the John Deere Classic also announced it is hosting a new “Fore the Future Gala,” presented by Smart Automotive of Davenport. The premier event will be on Thursday, Sept. 11, at Bally’s Casino & Hotel in Rock Island to celebrate the tournament’s philanthropic legacy while raising more funds for the Birdies for Charity Bonus Fund.
Through the Bonus Fund, the JDC and Birdies provide a 5-10% match annually for all participating Birdies charities. John Deere contributes a $325,000 matching grant each year, which covers roughly 30% of the total needed to fulfill the match promise. The remaining support comes from community donations and fundraising events. This year one of those events included the JDC’s Women’s Executive Day event with guest speaker Lisa Bluder, the former Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball coach.
“The Bonus Fund is what amplifies the impact of every donation,” Micaela Booth, Birdies for Charity director, said in the release. “By growing this fund, we ensure that every dollar goes even further, helping hundreds of local charities continue their vital work.”
The JDC is rolling out the new Fore the Future Gala to bring together donors, sponsors, volunteers, and beneficiaries for an evening that honors decades of generosity and forward-looking philanthropy.
“The Fore the Future Gala is a powerful reminder that giving back isn’t just something we do – it’s who we are,” Mike Leep Jr., president of the Gurley Leep Automotive Family. “As the presenting sponsor, Smart Automotive of Davenport, part of the Gurley Leep Automotive Family, is proud to support an event that uplifts local charities and brings lasting impact to the communities we serve.”
“It’s an honor to be part of such an enduring and generous tradition,” Mr. Leep said in the JDC release.
For ticket information for the Fore the Future Gala, visit www.birdiesforcharity.com/gala.
