The Principal Charity Classic, presented by Wells Fargo, today announced that the 2018 golf tournament raised $4,356,321 in support of Iowa kids, topping the event’s previous record of nearly $3.6 million set just one year ago.

The annual PGA Tour Champions event in Des Moines has now donated more than $17.7 million since 2007. The event benefited more than 130,000 children statewide last year. 

“The Principal Charity Classic is invested in the future of Iowa kids, and the tournament’s remarkable impact is truly a shared success story,” said Dan Houston, chairman, president and CEO of Principal. “This year marks the first time the Principal Charity Classic has exceeded $4 million in charitable funds raised – and together, we’re not stopping there. With the outstanding support of the community and our many committed partners, we’re looking forward to the Principal Charity Classic giving back in a big way for years to come.” 

In 2018, a record 378 companies – from small business owners to international corporations – sponsored the Principal Charity Classic. Principal has served as the event’s title sponsor since 2007, along with Wells Fargo as presenting sponsor. 

More than 100 nonprofit organizations and K-12 schools throughout Iowa are enrolled in the tournament’s year-round Birdies For Charity program. Participants earn a 10 percent match on their fundraising efforts with the support of Sammons Financial Group, Wells Fargo and the organizers of Party on the Hill, a private, tournament-week event that raised $120,000 in 2018.

Additionally, tournament proceeds provide support to six tournament charity partners in the Des Moines area: Blank Children’s Hospital, Bravo Greater Des Moines, the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, Mercy Medical Center, the United Way of Central Iowa and Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa.

In 2018, Principal introduced a new tournament program called Kids Can Champions to recognize local children who have overcome challenges and made amazing progress in their lives. To watch a video about Kids Can Champions, click here.

To learn more about the Principal Charity Classic or to make an online donation in support of the tournament’s year-round charitable giving efforts, visit principalcharityclassic.com.