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PGA TOUR Superstore and The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation Invest $9.5 Million in Next Generation Through First Tee

First Tee to Launch Leadership Summit for 40 Teens in 2021

ST. AUGUSTINE and ATLANTA, September 23, 2020 – First Tee, a youth development organization that helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf, is expanding its relationship with PGA TOUR Superstore, thanks to a $9.5 million grant from PGA TOUR Superstore and The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. The new grant will help First Tee reach more children across the U.S. and strengthen First Tee’s curriculum for teenage participants.

PGA TOUR Superstore and The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation have supported First Tee for more than a decade, helping First Tee grow from reaching 260,000 kids in PGA TOUR Superstore markets in 2011 to more than 1.5 million young people in 2019. This new grant will help First Tee focus on the critical teenage years, where in the U.S. one in five public school children drop out before they finish high school.

Beginning in 2021, more than 1,300 First Tee teenagers will have the opportunity to participate in an annual five-week leadership development program at PGA TOUR Superstores. Additionally, 40 teens from across First Tee will be selected annually for a week-long summit at West Creek Ranch in Montana, an inspiring retreat space owned by PGA TOUR Superstore owner, Arthur M. Blank and with an intended purpose of growth, education and coming together to make a difference.

“We are committed to being a positive influence in our communities and truly believe in the purposeful impact sports can have in developing and supporting youth,” said Arthur M. Blank, Chairman, PGA TOUR Superstore and The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. “This is the embodiment of the First Tee’s mission and we are proud to support them. For more than a decade, we have built a strong partnership with the First Tee and will continue to work together to empower young people with core values such honesty, integrity and sportsmanship that will help them succeed throughout the course of their life.

Currently reaching kids through programs at 150 chapters, 10,000 schools and 1,600 youth centers, First Tee is opening the door to more kids and teens across its network, especially inviting those who are in underserved communities, to have access to programs and new opportunities. By leveraging the relationship with PGA TOUR Superstore, the investment will also allow First Tee to provide continued support to chapters located in PGA TOUR Superstore markets nationwide.

“We are grateful for leaders like Arthur Blank and his family of businesses who understand the power of investing in young people and their communities through First Tee,” said Jay Monahan, Commissioner, PGA TOUR and Chairman, Board of Governors, First Tee. “First Tee’s ability to connect with and empower the next generation in intentional and innovative ways is realized through partnerships like this one. Thank you to Mr. Blank and his store executives for investing in our future.”

“The new leadership program and summit will provide game-changing opportunities for the young people involved, and we are grateful for the support of our chapters in PGA TOUR Superstore markets,” said Greg McLaughlin, Chief Executive Officer, First Tee.

Mr. Blank, Chairman and owner of the PGA TOUR Superstore, has donated more than $3.6 million to First Tee since 2011. He is also owner of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons, MLS’ Atlanta United, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and three ranches in Montana, and co-founder of The Home Depot.

PURE Insurance Championship Impacting the First Tee Brings Surprises for High School Seniors and Meaningful Donation

Monterey Peninsula Foundation, PURE Insurance and others unite to donate $500,000 to First Tee

ST. AUGUSTINE, Florida (Sept. 21, 2020) – While the 2020 PURE Insurance Championship Impacting the First Tee, a PGA TOUR Champions event, was played at Pebble Beach this past week without First Tee juniors in the field due to COVID-19, the positive impact will be felt for years to come thanks to several surprises and a generous $500,000 donation from supportive partners.

Monterey Peninsula Foundation, the entity that operates the PURE Insurance Championship, PURE Insurance, and Chevron came together in support of First Tee’s mission through a generous $500,000 pledge that will fund much-needed technology projects for the nonprofit youth development organization.

All 70 high school seniors from First Tee chapters who applied to participate in the 2020 PURE Insurance Championship were surprised with a one-time contribution toward college and their names donned on PGA TOUR Champions caddy bibs. All First Tee applicants were invited to virtual experiences that included a video presentation on character values from influencers including professional athletes, actors and politicians, as well as a private concert performance from Train and Pat Monahan.

“The donations to support First Tee’s technology efforts are deeply appreciated and will make a foundational impact in our ability to reach and connect with young people from all backgrounds,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “It will truly have a lasting effect and a shining outcome from what has been a challenging year on many fronts. We are grateful to the Monterey Peninsula Foundation, PURE Insurance and PGA TOUR Champions players who went above and beyond to make the First Tee applicants feel included in this year’s event.”

The donation will be used to help First Tee build important digital infrastructure that improves kids’ experience and provides 24/7 access to the program, as well as improve virtual education and training for adults, which is critical for expansion and reaching more kids and teens. In addition, funding from Chevron will go toward supporting select alumni with a financial contribution toward their higher education.

“First Tee participants were missed dearly at this year’s PURE Insurance Championship,” said Steve John, tournament director and CEO for Monterey Peninsula Foundation. “The teens have shown resilience in a year of adversity, which reinforces why we support organizations like First Tee that help lift up young people and empower them to build their strength of character.”

For the last 17 years, PURE Insurance Championship Impacting the First Tee has provided a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for First Tee teen participants to meet, play and be mentored by PGA TOUR Champions players and amateurs from the business world. Due to the global pandemic, the First Tee teens did not play in this year’s event but were still recognized for their hard work and efforts to qualify for the application process.

“We are proud to continue our involvement with this wonderful event and to help support the important work of the Monterey Peninsula Foundation and First Tee,” said Katie Krum, Chief Marketing Officer of the PURE Group of Insurance Companies. “Supporting these incredible young men and women from the First Tee through this sponsorship is tremendously rewarding for our entire team.”

First Tee is a youth development organization that empowers kids to build their strength of character through the game of golf. The PURE Insurance Championship is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to encourage and inspire kids as they progress through the program toward higher education opportunities.

For more information on the tournament, visit PUREInsuranceChampionship.com. For more information on First Tee, visit firsttee.org.

First Tee is Showing Up Stronger after 23 Years

For more than a year, we have been working on a revitalization of the First Tee brand to ensure we stay connected with today’s young people

For more than two decades, we’ve been helping kids and teens learn life skills and build core values using the game of golf as the vehicle. Now, it’s time for us to write our own growth story. In May 2019, we began a process of reflecting on who we are, what we’re capable of and how we can show up stronger for this generation of kids. This brand evolution is grounded in research and insights from key stakeholders and is an updated reflection of who First Tee is and our promise to help empower kids to build their strength of character.

Since 1997, when First Tee was first launched in Central Park, Manhattan, NY, the intention was clear: leveraging one of the most engaging sports to enrich the lives of young people. It’s been a lot of hard work, but we are proud to now be serving many communities through our network of chapters, schools and community partnerships. It’s all about empowering kids. And we still think golf is the perfect platform in which to do it.

“There is little doubt the world has changed significantly over the last 23 years,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “Today’s kids and teens are facing pressures that are different from previous generations, and it’s important that we look in the mirror to ensure we are approaching our work with as much relevance and awareness of today’s families as possible. I am proud of the team who has worked so hard to really understand our participants, alumni, parents, coaches, volunteers, chapters, donors and many more who pour their hearts into our mission each day in their communities.

“This year has been challenging on many levels. We debated holding tight on this project, but in the end, our chapters were hungry for the ability to reinforce the incredible work they do through this brand refresh, so we decided to move forward now.”

The brand evolution was led by Sub Rosa, a brand strategy and design practice, and included PGA TOUR creative, marketing and communications teams. The evolution includes refreshed brand purpose and story, as well as a new logo, which is a metaphor for the growth guidance at the heart of First Tee. The changes also include removing “The” from the organization’s name and updated colors and patterns.

We will continue to build experiences that build character to empower kids through a lifetime of new challenges and continuous personal growth. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, we create active learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence and resilience that kids can carry to everything they do. These character education programs are offered at golf courses, schools and youth centers in all 50 states and at six international locations.

Western Golf Association, First Tee — Greater Chicago Announce Partnership

GLENVIEW, Ill. / CHICAGO, Ill. – The Western Golf Association (WGA) and First Tee — Greater Chicago, two of Chicago’s leading nonprofit organizations, have formed a partnership to broaden the scope and reach of their youth development and scholarship programs. The news was announced today during this week’s WGA-run BMW Championship, a PGA TOUR FedExCup Playoff event held at Olympia Fields Country Club in Olympia Fields, Illinois.

The partnership aims to deepen both organizations’ impact by providing First Tee — Greater Chicago’s diverse group of youth participants direct access to Western Golf Association’s youth caddie programs and college scholarship opportunities. Headquartered in Chicago’s north suburbs, the WGA hosts championships for professionals and amateur golfers, promotes the use of youth caddies, and oversees the acclaimed Evans Scholars Foundation, which sends deserving caddies to college on full tuition and housing scholarships. Currently, 1,045 students are enrolled at 19 universities nationwide as Evans Scholars.

While maintaining independent boards and staff, the organizations will share resources and collectively build out long-term programmatic supports needed to achieve meaningful impact in the greater Chicago community.

“We could not be more excited to announce our new partnership with First Tee — Greater Chicago,” said John Kaczkowski, President and CEO of the Western Golf Association. “Both organizations have been committed to supporting and developing youth and educational efforts through the game of golf. Together, we’ll be better positioned to further advance our joint mission of inviting more young people in the Chicago area to come learn the game of golf – and probably a few new things about themselves, too.”

First Tee — Greater Chicago is part of a network of 150 First Tee domestic and international chapters. Since 2000, First Tee — Greater Chicago has been serving tens of thousands of area youth annually through its on-course, in-school, and after-school programming. Based in Chicago, the organization aims to impact the lives of young people aged seven to 18 from all backgrounds by providing experiences that build character to empower kids through a lifetime of new challenges and continuous personal growth.

“When there are opportunities to combine forces for good – like in this case – there is little doubt the young people and the community benefit,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “We are focused on the future and how we can continue to thoughtfully create opportunities to enrich our impact in these communities. We are thankful for this new strategic partnership, and trust that it will bring together two quality organizations to make an even better experience for Chicago-area youth.”

“This partnership is about creating opportunity, especially for the youth we reach who are coming from underrepresented communities,” said Lea Jesse, Chief Executive Officer of First Tee — Greater Chicago. “It has been a tough year for Chicago, and we want to help more kids to build up their inner-strength, self-confidence, and resilience. This partnership with the Western Golf Association will have a lasting impact for our community, and specifically for the young people who will grow and translate their learnings into meaningful work experience and college scholarship opportunities as they transition into young adulthood.”

A working group comprised of leaders from both organizations will be established to develop goals and benchmarks and build out the long-term measures of success.

USGA Grants Benefit 51 First Tee Chapters in 2020

The USGA has provided more than $26 million in funding to First Tee since 1997

LIBERTY CORNER, N.J. (Aug. 20, 2020) – The United States Golf Association (USGA) has provided $200,000 in grants to be allocated across 51 First Tee chapters throughout the United States in its ongoing commitment to making the game more accessible and welcoming for juniors. The grants are part of an annual $1.3 million investment in national junior golf programs.

In addition to the grants, the association has pledged $125,000 to help First Tee develop innovative digital tools that enable stronger connections between juniors, parents, chapters and coaches, bringing the USGA’s total investment to $325,000 for 2020.

Since 1997, the USGA has invested a total of more than $33 million among First Tee, LPGA*USGA Girls Golf, and Drive, Chip & Putt in an effort to provide greater access to golf for juniors and cultivate a lifelong passion for the game. The commitment to expanding participation is part of the USGA’s mission to champion and advance the game.

“Year after year we are seeing the positive impact that First Tee and other junior programs are having in breaking down barriers and connecting communities through sports,” said Mike Davis, CEO of the USGA. “It is vital for golf’s long-term health that we continue to create pathways for all juniors to participate.”

First Tee brings kids and teens to the game of golf and leverages it as a catalyst for personal growth through experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience. Through chapters in 150 communities and more than 10,000 schools and 1,200 after-school partnerships, First Tee reaches kids ages 5-18 from all backgrounds.

Grant applications were available to First Tee chapters located within the 14 markets where USGA championships were scheduled to take place in 2020, as well as chapters affiliated with one of the association’s 59 Allied Golf Associations (AGAs). Located in all 50 states, AGAs serve millions of golfers at the recreational level by increasing engagement and participation, and improving the golfer experience.

These 51 First Tee chapters have the potential to reach more than 1 million young people through programs on golf courses, as well as through schools and after-school partnerships.

“The USGA’s commitment to investing in First Tee over the years continues to have a lasting impact on the game as well as countless young people in communities across our country,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “We are offering a meaningful and positive experience through golf that helps young people uncover who they are and grow personally. There is no better sport in which to do this, and we are thankful for the USGA’s confidence in our work.”

The funding is part of the USGA’s annual $70 million investment in the game fueled by revenues generated by the U.S. Open.

The 2020 grant recipients include:

First Tee Chapter	USGA Championship Host Communities and Supporting USGA Allied Golf Associations
First Tee — Aiken	2020 U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur, Carolinas Golf Association
First Tee — Central Arkansas	Arkansas State Golf Association
First Tee — Central Iowa	Iowa Golf Association
First Tee — Central Mississippi	Mississippi Golf Association
First Tee — Central Washington	2020 U.S. Amateur
First Tee — Coachella Valley	2021 U.S. Open, Southern California Golf Association
First Tee — Connecticut	2020 U.S. Open, 2020 U.S. Senior Women’s Open, Connecticut State Golf Association
First Tee — Eastern Michigan	2020 U.S. Senior Amateur, Golf Association of Michigan
First Tee — Fresno	Northern California Golf Association
First Tee — Greater Austin	Texas Golf Association
First Tee — Greater El Paso	Texas Golf Association
First Tee — Greater Philadelphia	2020 U.S. Amateur Four-Ball, Golf Association of Philadelphia
First Tee — Greater Portland	2020 U.S. Amateur, Oregon Golf Association
First Tee — Greater Richmond	2020 U.S. Mid-Amateur, Virginia State Golf Association
First Tee — Greater Sacramento	2021 U.S. Women’s Open, Northern California Golf Association
First Tee — Greater Trenton	2020 U.S. Amateur Four-Ball, New Jersey State Golf Association
First Tee — Greater Washington, D.C.	2020 U.S. Women’s Amateur, Maryland State Golf Association
First Tee — Greater Wilmington (N.C.)	Carolinas Golf Association
First Tee — Green Valley Ranch	2020 U.S. Girls’ Junior, Colorado Golf Association
First Tee — Howard County	2020 U.S. Women’s Amateur, Maryland State Golf Association
First Tee — Indiana	Indiana Golf Association
First Tee — Louisville	Kentucky Golf Association
First Tee — Lowcountry	2020 U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur
First Tee — Massachusetts	Mass. Golf Association
First Tee — Metropolitan New York	2020 U.S. Open, 2020 U.S. Senior Women’s Open, Metropolitan Golf Association
First Tee — Mid-Michigan	Golf Association of Michigan
First Tee — Monterey County	2021 U.S. Women’s Open, Northern California Golf Association
First Tee — New Hampshire	New Hampshire Golf Association
First Tee — Northwest Florida	Florida State Golf Association
First Tee — Omaha	Nebraska Golf Association
First Tee — Pine Mountain	Kentucky Golf Association
First Tee — San Diego	2021 U.S. Open, Southern California Golf Association
First Tee — San Joaquin (Calif.)	2021 U.S. Women’s Open
First Tee — Siouxland	Iowa Golf Association
First Tee — Tennessee	Tennessee Golf Association
First Tee — Piney Woods	Texas Golf Association
First Tee — Phoenix	Arizona Golf Association
First Tee — Pikes Peak	2020 U.S. Girls’ Junior, Colorado Golf Association
First Tee — Roanoke Valley	2020 U.S. Mid-Amateur, Virginia State Golf Association
First Tee — San Francisco	2021 U.S. Women’s Open, Northern California Golf Association
First Tee — San Juan County, N.M.	Sun County Golf Association
First Tee — Sandhills	Carolinas Golf Association
First Tee — Silicon Valley	2021 U.S. Women’s Open, Northern California Golf Association
First Tee — South Dakota	South Dakota Golf Association
First Tee — Tri-Valley	2021 U.S. Women’s Open, Northern California Golf Association
First Tee — Triad	Carolinas Golf Association
First Tee — Twin Cities	2020 U.S. Junior Amateur, Minnesota Golf Association
First Tee — Upstate	2020 U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur, Carolinas Golf Association
First Tee — Virginia Blue Ridge	2020 U.S. Mid-Amateur
First Tee — West Michigan	2020 U.S. Senior Amateur, Golf Association of Michigan
First Tee — West Virginia	West Virginia Golf Association

Golf Canada Partners with First Tee to Establish First Tee – Canada

Global youth development program will launch in 2021 with a goal to open

regional chapters across Canada through 2023

PGA of Canada to lead the national training of coaches to introduce First Tee youth development curriculum; Golf Canada Foundation will drive the advancement of the First Tee – Canada local chapters

Launch of First Tee – Canada coincides with selection of Royal Montreal Golf Club as host of the 2024 Presidents Cup; Quebec chapter of First Tee – Canada will be a legacy of the biennial competition

Oakville, Ont. (August 10, 2020) – Golf Canada and First Tee announced today a new partnership to launch First Tee – Canada. First Tee’s Board Chairman, PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan, shared the news during a global announcement that Presidents Cup will return to Royal Montreal Golf Club in 2024.

Together, the partnership will bring First Tee’s youth development emphasis to strengthen Golf Canada’s junior golf activities that reach kids in schools and at golf facilities. The innovative First Tee curriculum will focus on empowering young people to build their strength of character through the game of golf. Golf Canada will serve as the national headquarters of First Tee – Canada.

“Partnering with First Tee towards the 2021 launch of First Tee – Canada will provide Canadian youth and especially those in underrepresented groups access to affordable and meaningful character education programs through golf,” said Golf Canada CEO Laurence Applebaum. “Golf Canada and the PGA of Canada have developed a strong foundation for junior golf programing over the past twenty plus years through Future Links. We are excited going forward to partner with the globally recognized First Tee brand and work collaboratively with the Golf Canada Foundation to strengthen our youth development activities.”

“Golf Canada has made a significant impact on the growth of the sport in Canada through their multi-faceted junior golf initiatives and was a natural fit for us to partner with the launch of First Tee – Canada,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO, First Tee. “Together, we will bring the First Tee youth development program nationwide and build on Golf Canada’s impressive grassroots success with programming that reaches kids via nearly 600 golf facilities and 4,100 participating schools.”

The PGA of Canada will play a leading role in the training of coaches who will serve as mentors to the kids and teens in the program. Coaches will help bring the curriculum to life by introducing youth to fun and active experiences that help them build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience that can carry to everything they do.

“We are proud that PGA of Canada professionals will play an important role in utilizing golf to teach First Tee core values of honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, judgement and courtesy,” said Kevin Thistle, CEO of PGA of Canada. “We look forward to supporting the development of youth and junior golfers through the coaching and mentorship of PGA of Canada professionals in alignment with the National Coaching Certification Program.”

First Tee – Canada will target to launch multiple chapters in 2021 with a growth strategy to establish First Tee chapters in markets across Canada through 2023. The inaugural First Tee – Canada chapter launching in 2021 will be located in Victoria, British Columbia at the Bear Mountain Golf & Tennis Resort Community which is also home to Golf Canada’s National Training Centre. This was made possible by the support of the Matthews and Kusumoto families. Dan Matthews is a global Trustee and a member of the Board of Governors of the First Tee and a member of the Board of Directors of the Golf Canada Foundation. A First Tee chapter in Quebec will also be launched shortly thereafter, continuing the incredible legacy of past Presidents Cups. With support from the Presidents Cup, First Tee has successfully launched global chapters in Australia (2019) and Korea (2015).

Through its deep network of donors and trustees, Golf Canada Foundation will be a critical partner in supporting the launch and advancement of First Tee – Canada through its fundraising and philanthropic efforts. Canada’s Provincial Golf Associations will also play a role in the advancement of First Tee – Canada as chapters begin to form in markets across Canada. In addition, Golf Canada will continue to work with the NGCOA Canada (National Golf Course Owner’s Association) and other key industry stakeholders towards a more inclusive golf experience for Canadian youth.

Since its inception in 1997, First Tee has impacted more than 15 million young people through its character-building programs on golf courses, in schools and at youth-serving locations.

The First Tee network has grown to over 150 chapters and more than 1,200 program locations across the United States as well as six international chapters—Australia, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Morocco and Canada—delivering programs that help young people build character and develop life skills through the game of golf. A First Tee chapter out of Vancouver is operating independently out of Vancouver, and previously out of Montreal, prior to the launch of First Tee – Canada,.

For more information on First Tee, visit thefirsttee.org.

THE CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION FORMALIZES PARTNERSHIP WITH FIRST TEE

Collaboration builds and expands upon decades of work in the community

DETROIT – July 30, 2020 – The Children’s Foundation and First Tee announce today a formalized partnership. The Foundation will operate First Tee – Greater Detroit to continue providing valuable programmatic services and develop new tools and methods to fulfill its mission and reach more youth.

Consistent with The Children’s Foundation’s mission to improve the health and wellness of children and families in Michigan and beyond, First Tee enables youth in Detroit to build their strength of character through the game of golf. First Tee – Greater Detroit is one of the organization’s first established chapters.

For 23 years, First Tee has worked with schools, parents, and the community, to provide active learning experiences that help youth build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience that they can carry to everything they do. The program seamlessly integrates the game of golf with a life skills curriculum that progresses through seven levels for kids ages five to 18. By partnering with The Children’s Foundation, First Tee will broaden their reach and increase programming to have a lasting impact on children and youth.

“The Children’s Foundation is committed to providing programs that offer lifelong skills that will prepare children and young adults for fulfilling, safe and rewarding lives,” said, Lawrence J. Burns, President & CEO. “First Tee has an outstanding history of providing meaningful programs that help empower kids through a lifetime of new challenges and personal growth. It is a great fit.”

“Youth today are facing more challenges than ever before, and this powerful collaboration with The Children’s Foundation in the City of Detroit will position us to help reach more kids with our youth development and character-building programs,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “We are excited that this partnership will enable more young people to pursue their dreams and be prepared for the future.”

An ongoing strategic initiative of The Children’s Foundation is creating a network of affiliates that are mission consistent with The Foundation. Current affiliations include the Jamie Daniels Foundation, the Paul W. Smith Charities, along with founding partner the Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation. The Foundation will now add First Tee to this growing list.

“We are adding the First Tee to our initiatives to help more kids take more steps toward a positive future,” said Matt Friedman, Board Chairman at The Children’s Foundation. “We see how this matches our mission and allows to be directly involved with a proven program that Detroit children will enjoy and always remember.”

Nathan Dryer, 18, donates Make-A-Wish to First Tee-Northern Michigan

By Sara Wright, PGA TOUR

Story also featured at PGATOUR.com here.

Integrity, responsibility and judgement are just a few of the character strengths that the First Tee aims to instill in its participants through the game of golf. And, for Nathan Dryer, a former participant and current assistant coach with the First Tee – Northern Michigan, he intends to pass along a few more – courage, generosity and selflessness.

Nathan first started participating in the First Tee program at the age of 13, when he attended its advanced camp in Harbor Springs, Mich. He took to the program immediately and along with increasing his golf skills, he remembers being even more impressed with the amount of respect and courtesy the coaches showed him and how that increased his confidence and self-esteem. The experience led him to want to give back and eventually become an assistant coach with the local First Tee chapter.

However, life would throw him a curveball along the way. In February 2018, at the age of 16, Nathan was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Hodgkin’s Lymphoma — formerly known as Hodgkin’s disease — is a cancer of the lymphatic system, an integral part of your immune system. Thankfully, recent advances in diagnosis and treatment have helped give people with this disease the chance for a full recovery and, although it is rare to be found in males so young, Nathan and his family were optimistic and started treatment immediately. By June of that same year, Nathan was cancer free and coaching at First Tee throughout the summer.

“It’s not really a job for me,” Nathan said. “I love doing it.”

And that’s why when Nathan was referred to his local Make-A-Wish Foundation in Michigan, his wish wasn’t to go on a dream vacation or meet his favorite athlete or celebrity, it was to give back to a program that has meant so much to him.

“I wish to go, I wish to have, I wish to meet, I wish to be, or I wish to give,” said Make-A-Wish Michigan’s Communications and Public Relations Manager, Christy Schulte. ” Nathan chose to give.”

Wishes to give normally fall in the smallest subset of wishes the Make-A-Wish program grants every year. But give they did. In fact, Nathan asked to give $5,000 to the First Tee – Northern Michigan to offset the lack of fundraising events the local chapter was able to host this year due to COVID-19.

“I saw so many kids change and grow in the First Tee program, and to me, there’s nothing better than that feeling,” Nathan said. “I’m happy to be doing this.”

Nathan’s selflessness and desire to give back are a testament to those around him, and has become fundamental in how he approaches most everything. As he enters his senior year in high school, he plans on joining the Air Force after graduation and serving his community and country in an even bigger way.

His family, friends and First Tee – Northern Michigan couldn’t be prouder.

“I have watched him develop and grow in terms of his character, his confidence, his willingness to take responsibility and his generosity,” said Nathan’s mother Aimee. “I am really proud.”

The program director of the First Tee – Northern Michigan, Logan Paquet, agrees, adding, “He has represented the First Tee in such a humble and gracious way. It is truly outstanding.”

If you feel compelled to support First Tee programming, please donate online here at https://firsttee.org/donate/.

President George W. Bush Surprises First Tee College Scholarship Program Recipients

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (June 10, 2020) – Seven high school graduates received a surprise personal congratulatory message today from President George W. Bush, Honorary Chair of First Tee, on their selection into the inaugural class of the First Tee College Scholarship Program. This Class of Scholars includes aspiring doctors, lawyers and entrepreneurs, several of whom will be attending Harvard, Yale and Duke University.

“Your hard work has paid off,” said President George W. Bush, via video message. “The coming years will bring new learning, new friendships, new challenges and new opportunities. Remembering the values you have learned through the First Tee will help you for the years to come. Laura and I join your family and friends and recognize you on this special occasion, and we send our best wishes.”

First Tee’s College Scholarship Class of 2020 includes:

Luke Boldt, First Tee – Coastal Carolinas, East Carolina University
Luke has been an active First Tee participant since he was four years old. In that time, he has earned Ace certification, the highest level in the program, and developed into a leader on and off the golf course. He founded a special needs golf program with his twin brother, “Buddy Tee.” He is an Eagle Scout and played in the 2019 PURE Insurance Championship Impacting the First Tee with Jeff Maggert at Pebble Beach, Calif. Luke plans to major in Public Health at East Carolina University.

Blake Brantley, First Tee – Triad, Yale University
Blake will pursue golf at the collegiate level as a member of the men’s golf team at Yale University where he will major in Economics and Pre-Law. He was the captain and MVP of his high school’s varsity golf team and served as the captain of the Academic Team. He credits First Tee with inspiring him to give back to members of his community and co-founded a charity called “Golf For Life” in which he helped raise $50,000 for a scholarship fund for other First Tee participants. Blake has been a participant at his chapter for eight years, earning Ace certification and volunteering as a coach and mentor to younger participants.

Ricky Lam, First Tee – Tri-Valley, Harvard University
A first-generation college student, Ricky will attend Harvard University majoring in Economics. He aspires to become a leading financial advisor and entrepreneur. He is the Salutatorian of the Oakland Technical Class of 2020 and a National Merit Commended Scholar. He is a Boy Scout and peer tutor for AP Statistic students and plays on the varsity golf team. An Ace participant at First Tee, Ricky volunteers as a coach and mentor to the kids at his chapter.

Kelly Low, First Tee – Fort Worth, University of Texas at Dallas
Kelly has been a First Tee participant for five years, earning Ace certification and volunteering as a junior coach and member of the chapter’s Junior Advisory Board. She is a first-generation U.S. citizen and will attend the University of Texas at Dallas where she will major in computer science. Her passion for science extends beyond the classroom. Kelly was a member of the Rocket Science Club, interned at Lockheed Martin and volunteered at the River Legacy Foundation where she taught children about nature. She is also an AP scholar and member of the varsity golf team.

Nicole Monsalve, First Tee – Miami, Duke University
Nicole is an AP Scholar with Distinction and a National Hispanic Scholar. She will attend Duke University, majoring in Pre-Med, Biology and aspires to be an NFL team doctor. A two-sport athlete in both golf and track, Nicole also spent her time volunteering with the First Tee – Miami High School Prep Bootcamp, providing young athletes help with schoolwork and time management. She also serves as the founder and director of “Box It Tournament,” raising more than $6,000 for a local homeless shelter. Nicole has been a First Tee participant for more than five years, serving as a junior coach and counselor while also an active member of the First Tee Junior Advisory Board.

Sara Rintoul, First Tee – Central Florida, University of Florida
Sara will attend the University of Florida and major in Health Sciences and International Studies. She is a recipient of the National Security Language Initiative for Youth Scholarship, where she traveled to North Africa in 2019 to represent the U.S. and learn Arabic. Her extracurriculars include President of the Model United Nations team, Vice President of We Dine Together Club, promoting inclusion at school, and captain of her varsity golf team. She has been a First Tee participant for seven years attending the Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. Life Skills and Leadership Academy in 2018 where she was awarded the Renee Powell Outstanding Female Leader Award.

Remi Shendell, First Tee – Metropolitan New York, Emory University
Remi aspires to attend medical school and become a doctor for infectious diseases at the CDC or WHO. She will attend Emory University, majoring in Biology and Human Health. Remi is an AP Scholar with honors and was active at her school serving as captain of the golf team and Director of Public Relations for the Girls Learn International chapter, empowering middle and high school students to advocate for human rights, equality and universal education around the world. An Ace First Tee participant, Remi has been involved at First Tee – Metropolitan New York for nine years and serves as an tutor and junior coach.

The First Tee College Scholarship Program extends its impact to alumni by providing support throughout their post-graduate career. Each of the scholars will be paired with a dedicated, trained adult mentor who will help encourage and guide them throughout the college experience, including virtual and in-person meetups. The program also provides scholarships up to $5,000 per year for four years, plus professional development workshops held in-person throughout the year. In addition, scholars will receive assistance with internships and full-time employment placement post-graduation. First Tee is a youth development organization dedicated to providing active learning experiences that empowers young people to build their character through the game of golf.

“We are so proud of the First Tee College Scholarship Class of 2020,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “We are inspired by this remarkable group of young leaders who were selected from an impressive applicant pool of First Tee alumni candidates. We look forward to continuing to empower them to build their confidence and inner-strength as they set out to accomplish their dreams and make a difference in the world.”

The First Tee College Scholarship Program is open to active participants of First Tee chapters graduating from high school who meet the minimum requirements. Applications were received from participants at 32 chapters in 24 states across the nation. Following an online application process, 10 finalists were selected by a committee for one-on-one interviews. Applicants were considered based on financial need, academic performance, chapter involvement, volunteerism, community service and other criteria.

President George W. Bush has been First Tee’s Honorary Chair since 2009. He succeeded his father, President George H.W. Bush, who served as First Tee’s Honorary Chair since the organization’s inception in 1997.

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About First Tee

First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a nonprofit youth development organization whose mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf. Since its inception in 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach more than 3.5 million young people annually on golf courses, in elementary schools and at youth centers. Its headquarters are in St. Augustine, Florida, USA, with programs in all 50 United States and select international locations.

First Tee Response to COVID-19

When we think of First Tee’s mark on the world, what comes to my mind is putting kids and their families first, building confidence despite new challenges, and perseverance. Our values are as important today as ever, and your support is what allows us to continue.

It may go without saying, but first and foremost our collective priority is and will remain the safety of our network. From participants and their families to 20,000+ adults who support them throughout First Tee we are committed to putting their safety first.

We are proud of our network for being agile, creative and innovative during this unprecedented time. While we have had to cancel or postpone in-person trainings, participant events and work-related travel, we are working from home and have ramped up our support of the network through:

Enhanced communications and COVID-19 related webinars
Facilitating peer to peer interaction and support through internal channels
Creating and providing digital resources to chapters and coaches
Sharing uplifting content and updates from around the network through our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter

And though we’re focused on chapter support through the current conditions, we’re simultaneously innovating and recalibrating our timeline on important projects like enhanced technology and curriculum. Our goal is to ensure we emerge from this crisis better positioned than ever to empower today’s young people for the future.

Thank you for your patience and understanding during this time, and for your continued support. We are all in this together, and we have all the confidence we will make it through. Our thoughts are with you. Please stay safe.

First Tee Kicks Off Nationwide Summer Registration at THE PLAYERS, Engages Kids & Fans Through On-Site Experiences

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (Feb. 27, 2020) – First Tee, a youth development organization providing active learning experiences to help young people build character through the game of golf, will kick off summer registration around the country and showcase the impact of its program as a featured charity during THE PLAYERS Championship, March 10-15, 2020.

Highlights for the week include:

The 17th Hole Challenge presented by Morgan Stanley, Grant Thornton and Optum: First Tee is about building character and using that inner-strength to take on new challenges in life. Throughout the week, guests can demonstrate their self-confidence on a replica of the famed par-3 17th at TPC Sawgrass. Fans will have the option to purchase a third shot or a First Tee Fast Pass, with proceeds benefiting First Tee of North Florida. Located in THE PLAYERS Welcome Experience at the Nicklaus entry, high-profile influencers and celebrities are known to stop by to take the challenge.
Youth Clinic with PGA TOUR pros: On Monday, March 9, a youth clinic will take place with participants from the First Tee of North Florida and PGA TOUR professionals, in conjunction with Nike, at the 17th Hole Challenge. Media are invited for the purposes of covering the event and must apply for tournament credentials by February 28 at pgatourmedia.com.
Girls Golf Mentoring Event: On Tuesday, March 10, Morgan Stanley – one of THE PLAYERS Championship’s Proud Partners – will host girls from First Tee of North Florida in a private event focused on mentorship and financial literacy with LPGA professional Cheyenne Woods and local Morgan Stanley leaders. Media are invited for the purposes of covering the event and must apply for tournament credentials by February 28 at pgatourmedia.com.
Featured Charity of the Day: On Wednesday, March 11, First Tee will give away free bag tags to the first 5,000 fans and will be featured onsite throughout the tournament and on THE PLAYERS digital channels.
Cola’s Reverse Vending Machine Benefiting First Tee: Fans can demonstrate their commitment to the next generation by recycling all plastic bottles throughout the week in Coca-Cola’s ‘reverse vending machine’ in Stadium Village. With each recycled item, Coca-Cola will automatically donate to First Tee of North Florida.
Featured First Tee Participants and Alumni at THE PLAYERS: Throughout the week, First Tee of North Florida participants will be experiencing the event, many for the first time, and First Tee, First Tee of North Florida and THE PLAYERS will spotlight their engagement on digital channels. Bios and quotes are below.

Fans around the country watching THE PLAYERS can sign their children up at one of the First Tee chapters offering programs at more than 1,200 locations. Trained coaches deliver the programs to kids and teens, helping build self-confidence, inner-strength and resilience, and equipping them with tools that they can apply in school, their careers and whatever they set out to do.

To learn more about First Tee’s impact on youth and summer registration, visit FirstTee.org. More information about THE PLAYERS is available at THEPLAYERS.com.

Impactful Participant Stories, First Tee of North Florida

Blair Waters, a First Tee of North Florida alumnus, has benefited immensely from learning First Tee’s values like perseverance and self-confidence. With support from his First Tee coaches, Waters found the inner-strength to complete high school after nearly dropping out. Now a graduate from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore with a degree in Professional Golf Management, Blair currently works at Desert Mountain Golf Club in Scottsdale, Arizona. He recently returned to North Florida to participate in THE PLAYERS Charity Shootout held in February.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without First Tee.” – Blair Waters, age 27

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Manyi Ngu and her sister Mombo are immigrants from Cameroon. Coming from a single-parent household, Manyi’s experiences with First Tee have inspired her to become a leader and give back to her community.

“First Tee has nurtured me and given me the confidence to approach every aspect of my life proactively.” – Manyi Ngu, age 16

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Jacob Davis exhibits the values and character First Tee instills in young people. Despite having a rare condition that has required more than 30 surgeries, Jacob exudes positivity, continuing to give back to his community. After completing his Eagle Scout project of fulfilling an entire wish lists at local animal shelters, Jacob decided to do the repeat the project a second time.

“First Tee has given me opportunities to play at golf courses I might not have had the chance to play, while making new friends and learning from others.” – Jacob Davis, age 16

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Caitlyn Lavant, a sixth grader, is one of the most active participants at the chapter at just 11 years old. When Caitlyn’s family experienced personal hardships, she found community in the First Tee.

“I am equipped for life because First Tee has made me a better person.” – Caitlyn Lavant, age 11

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Brandon Fowler might never have played golf had it not been for First Tee. Brandon has actively taken advantage of all the opportunities afforded to him by First Tee and looks forward to giving back to the chapter that gave so much to him. First Tee has provided Brandon with the opportunity to explore possibilities that golf can provide while helping him grow personally.

“First Tee has given me self-confidence. I’ll always know I can succeed, even when things are difficult.” – Brandon Fowler, age 15

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Grace Richards was selected to attend one of First Tee’s national participant opportunities, the 2019 Joe Louis Barrow Jr. Life Skills and Leadership Academy. She had the opportunity to develop and hone skills to become leader at her chapter, school and community. Grace aspires to become the executive director of a non-profit.

“I am different because First Tee taught me how to become a confident leader. I used to enter group settings with reservation. Because of First Tee, I can take charge, lead with confidence and take on life’s challenges with a positive attitude.” – Grace Richards, age 16

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View photos of the First Tee of North Florida participants.

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About First Tee
First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a nonprofit youth development organization whose mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf. Since beginning in 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach millions of young people on golf courses, in schools and at youth centers. First Tee is headquartered in St. Augustine, Florida, USA, with programs in all 50 United States and select international locations.

About THE PLAYERS Championship
THE PLAYERS Championship annually combines the strongest field in golf with the world-class venue that is THE PLAYERS Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass. Morgan Stanley, Grant Thornton LLP and Optum® are the exclusive Proud Partners of THE PLAYERS. Proceeds from THE PLAYERS benefit Northeast Florida charities and have totaled more than $100 million since it began in 1974 and moved to Ponte Vedra Beach in 1977. In 2019, THE PLAYERS generated a record $9.25 million for local charities. For more on THE PLAYERS, visit THEPLAYERS.com. For more on the surrounding areas, visit floridashistoriccoast.com or visitjacksonville.com

First Tee Launches Enhanced College Scholarship Program

New national program extends First Tee’s impact to alumni, providing support focused on personal growth, mentorship and financial assistance

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (Feb. 18, 2020) – First Tee, a youth development organization providing active learning experiences to help young people build character through the game of golf, is enhancing its national scholarship program to include deeper support for alumni. First Tee College Scholarship Program will now provide selected alumni entering college with financial assistance, professional development workshops and substantial mentoring throughout their college experience.

One of the key components of the First Tee College Scholarship Program is pairing scholars with a dedicated, trained adult mentor who will help encourage and guide them throughout the college experience, including in-person meet ups. The program also provides scholarships up to $5,000 per year for four years, plus professional development workshops. Scholars will also receive assistance with internships and full-time employment placement post-graduation.

“At First Tee, we want to inspire and empower every young person we reach to set goals and begin pursuing them,” said First Tee President Greg McLaughlin. “Providing an enhanced and more robust College Scholarship Program furthers our efforts to motivate young people to stay in our programs, and support alumni as they move through the college process. Education remains incredibly valuable in today’s competitive world, and we want to advance First Tee alumni through this program.”

The program is open to active participants of First Tee chapters graduating from high school and planning to attend college. Applicants will be considered based on financial need, academic performance, chapter involvement, volunteerism and other criteria. Applications are now being accepted. The scholars will be announced at the end of May.

For more information on the First Tee College Scholarship Program, visit firsttee.org.

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About First Tee
First Tee is a nonprofit youth development organization whose mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf. Since its beginning in 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach millions of young people on golf courses, in schools and at youth centers. First Tee is headquartered in St. Augustine, Florida, USA, with programs in all 50 United States and select international locations.