Highlighting THE PLAYERS’ commitment to generate $50 million for youth-related charities over the next 10 years, the tournament celebrated “Community Day at THE PLAYERS” on Tuesday.

Commissioner Tim Finchem

PGA TOUR Commissioner Tim Finchem hosted a “Champions for Education Breakfast,” which brought together the leaders of the Jacksonville business and civic community for a presentation regarding the state of the Jacksonville public school system and its impact on the economic and social viability of Northeast Florida. The discussion focused on the efforts currently underway to improve local education and motivate others to join the movement. Pulitzer Prize-winning author Thomas Friedman served as keynote speaker and Mayor Alvin Brown and Jaguars owner Shad Khan also presented.

Thomas Friedman, Matt Rapp

Also on hand at the event was Jacksonville businessman Gary Chartrand, who announced the formation of the Fund for Quality Education, which will work with the Jacksonville Public Education Fund to invest in education reforms in Northeast Florida. Speaking to the packed crowd at TPC Sawgrass, Chartrand said that he and other area philanthropists are working to raise $100 million to help local schools and teachers. Chartrand said that $15 million has already been raised.

The Chartrand Foundation, The Community Foundation, The Jaguars Foundation and the Jacksonville Public Education Fund all assisted THE PLAYERS in the planning of the Champions for Education event.

Mayor Alvin Brown, Shad Khan

To see more photos from the event, visit the 2012 THE PLAYERS Photo Gallery.