David Toms, LSU graduate and world championship golfer, has started working off the green to level the playing field for underprivileged children.
Earlier this year, he started the David Toms Foundation, which provides assistance to homeless and abused children.
“A lot of people do not have the same opportunities,” Toms said. “If we can help children by altering their current situation, then the chances for a successful life are increased. If we can help a family get off the street, get a child away from an abusive home or help a child learn life skills, then we are making a difference in the community.”
Last month the David Toms Foundation made its first large donation of $100,000 to Providence House in Shreveport, La., a residential facility for underprivileged children.
“I’m in a position in life where I can help,” said Toms, a Shreveport resident. “I feel that making a difference in the community is possible, and that is what we are going to try to do. There are several areas of need, but focusing on underprivileged and abused children is where we want to start.”
Not only has Toms continued to support Louisiana through his foundation’s contribution but he also continues to support his alma mater.
“I loved the atmosphere at LSU, the sporting events, the people, everything,” Toms said. “It looks like I will be able to make at least four home [football] games and maybe one road game, so I’m excited.”
While playing golf for LSU, Toms was named first team All-American in 1988 and 1989. In 1988 he finished 5th-place at the NCAA Championships.
Toms is the current LSU record holder in single-season scoring average (71.27 in 1989), career Top 10 finishes (29) and career tournament victories with six.
He currently is tied for the lowest score in school history with a 65 at the 1987 Southeastern Conference Championships.
Toms has nine PGA Tour victories including a 2001 PGA Championship victory and currently is ranked No. 7 on the 2003 PGA Official World Golf Ranking.
Toms took home more than $1,000,000 after finishing 7-under-par for the victory at the Wachovia Championship May 11. But Toms said it’s difficult not having a guaranteed income.
“My income depends totally on my performance on the course,” he said.
Toms has done well thus far with total earnings of $3.1 million this year to rank sixth on the Tour money list. But, Toms said it’s hard being away from his wife Sonya and son Carter.
Toms said his favorite thing about being on the PGA Tour is getting to play a sport for a living.
“I travel the United States and the world playing great golf courses,” he said. “There isn’t much to complain about.”
After several successful years on the tour, Toms said his career goals are to reach the double-digit mark in wins and eventually be named to the Golf Hall of Fame.
More information on the David Toms Foundation can be found at www.davidtomsfoundation.com or by calling 318-798-kids.