The Western Golf Association was established by 11 Chicago-area golf clubs for the purpose of hosting tournaments. Today, 460 member clubs, organizations and affiliations are part of the WGA. Since its founding, it has hosted more than 300 championships for professional and amateur golfers from throughout the United States and the world. The organization also sponsors the nationally acclaimed Chick Evans Caddie Scholarship Program. Established by famed amateur golfer, Charles "Chick" Evans Jr., it provides full housing and tuition scholarships to deserving caddies across the country.