Investing In Our Community

We have always recognized our responsibility to contribute to the well-being and betterment of our community and the people who live here. It’s the most rewarding investment we make every year. Gold Key | PHR contributes time, money and services to more than 100 charities in Virginia Beach and throughout the country. Over the years we have contributed substantially to the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Museum, Neptune’s Park and the 31st Street Stage, in addition to many other worthy projects and endeavors.

We are especially proud of two ongoing efforts that are changing the lives of thousands: JT Walk & Beach Party and JT's Grommet Island Beach Park & Playground for EveryBODY.

JT Walk & Beach Party

Josh Thompson, an avid surfer from Virginia Beach, was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, better known as ALS® or Lou Gehrig’s disease, in 2006. Josh turned from riding waves to fighting ALS. Rather than becoming frustrated and bitter, Josh and his family mobilized thousands to help support the search for treatments and one day a cure, including the Gold Key | PHR family and thousands of others. They were joined by The Virginia Gentlemen, a group of young men, including Josh’s brother Chris, who were dedicated to giving back to their community. They partnered with the ALS Association in the local Walk to Defeat ALS®, staging the largest single day walk and fundraiser for ALS in history. In just three years, they have raised more than $4 million for stem cell research for neurological disorders, ALS® patient services and JT’s Grommet Island Beach Park & Playground For EveryBODY.

JT’s Grommet Island Beach Park & Playground For EveryBODY

When the Thompson family went to the beach, Josh had to stay behind. Wheelchairs are not made for beaches. The Thompson family wondered how many other people never got to the beach for the same reason. Thus was born the idea of a 100% accessible park for the disabled and their families. Our CEO Bruce Thompson, Josh's dad, took the idea to the City of Virginia Beach where it gained quick support and land was set aside. The JT Walk teamed with the ALS Association, the GK/PHR extended family, The Virginia Gentlemen and thousands of fellow citizens and raised the funds to build and maintain the park for use by residents and thousands of visitors who come to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront every year. The park was officially opened by the Governor of Virginia on May 22, 2010. Learn more here

ARDA ACE Award For Outstanding Achievement.

The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) recognized Gold Key Resorts with its coveted ACE award for outstanding community contributions for its work and dedication to the creation of JT’s Grommet Island Beach Park And Playground For EveryBODY and for our contributions to stem cell research and ALS patient care.