The Michael Campbell Foundation

In June, Michael Campbell, 2005 US Open Champion, launched the Michael Campbell Foundation to further his commitment to helping, inspiring and motivating young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Michael plans to raise funds though donations, activities such as hosting dinners and golf days, and by pledging a percentage of his endorsement deals to charity. Under this umbrella charity he will continue to support the Ronald McDonald House in Wellington and the New Zealand Junior Golf Foundation and will look to add in further charities on an on-going basis that adhere to the criteria of helping, inspiring and motivating young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The Michael Campbell Foundation is a culmination of Michael’s charity activities over the years that include donating all the prize money he earns from the New Zealand Open to the New Zealand Junior Golf Foundation. With the additional monies raised, he now intends to look at worthy youth charities not just in New Zealand but also all around the world.

Michael’s passion is borne from his Maori upbringing where a sense of community, culture and heritage is deeply embedded and the responsibility to reciprocate the inspiration and encouragement that has helped him in his career and life. Michael takes great pride and comfort from his Maori heritage, which he believes, keeps him grounded and aware that the respect of others is more important than winning.

‘I’m proud of my indigenous culture, my country and the opportunities it has provided me. This is what keeps my feet on the ground.  Given my position, I have the ability to raise people’s spirits, make them feel good about themselves, give them hope for the future and that is what the Michael Campbell Foundation will be all about. The inspiration and motivation I received from my community, family and friends leaves me keenly aware of those young people less fortunate who have not enjoyed the same advantages and I am delighted to be in a position where I can reach out and offer them help.”

“Those who are bent by the wind shall rise again when the wind softens’ Te Whiti.