In June of 1982 Las Vegas Founders was established as a non-profit corporation of citizens, interested in supporting and promoting the quality aspects of the Las Vegas community. They operated Las Vegas' PGA Tour event for many years prior to the Shriners taking over.
The primary function of the Las Vegas Founders was to act as the governing body of the Las Vegas Invitational (this year the FRYS.com Open). The Las Vegas Founders also supports the Southern Highlands Collegiate Championship, the Las Vegas Founders Women's Collegiate Showdown, and the Las Vegas Founders Junior Golf Championship. Click now for more information about the Las Vegas Founders.
The Las Vegas Founders Golf Foundation, through the efforts of the Las Vegas Founders members and volunteers, have awarded more than $14 million to area charities. The wide range of charities and organizations include UNLV Mens and Womens Golf, Boy Scouts of America, The First Tee of Southern Nevada, Opportunity Village, Big Brothers and Big Sisters and many more.
In 1996, The Las Vegas Founders awarded Tiger Woods a sponsors exemption, and he won his first PGA Tour event here in Las Vegas.
Other courses used by the PGA Tour include Southern Highlands Golf Club, Bear's Best Las Vegas and Las Vegas National Golf Club.