Category: News Releases

First Tee – Los Angeles to Launch Programs Spring 2022

Youth from the after-school program Beyond the Bell enjoyed a kickoff clinic featuring Korn Ferry Tour player and First Tee alumnus Chase Johnson yesterday

LOS ANGELES, Calif. (Sept. 14, 2021) – First Tee, a youth development organization that teaches life skills and helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf, will begin offering programs to Los Angeles-area youth in Spring 2022. More than 50 kids participated in a kick-off event at Chester Washington Golf Course featuring Korn Ferry Tour player and First Tee alumnus Chase Johnson. [Photos and broll are available here.]

“Los Angeles is such an important community, and we are pleased with the progress underway to relaunch our programs next spring,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “As evidenced by the young people who attended yesterday’s event, we feel confident that we will open doors and make an impact on the youth we serve here. Special thanks to Chase for participating in the event and ESPN for their support.”

“Because of First Tee I’ve had all the opportunities to play collegiate golf, get to the Korn Ferry Tour and prepare to go to the PGA TOUR,” Chase said. “Anything is possible with the support of caring mentors and role models like the First Tee coaches I had growing up at First Tee — Akron, whether it’s playing golf at the professional level and pursing a professional career.”

First Tee is a national youth development organization with approximately 150 chapters nationwide and in select international locations. The program is delivered at golf courses, in schools and through after-school partnerships, and is designed to empower youth to build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience that they can carry to everything that they do, including school.

First Tee — Los Angeles will begin offering programs next spring at golf courses in South L.A. and will expand throughout Los Angeles County in the coming years. Coaches will partake in First Tee’s coach training program, which is built on research-proven methods of positive youth development and will provide them with the tools to make kids feel safe, included and empowered.

Beyond programs offered locally, participants who advance through the program will be eligible to apply for national participant opportunities hosted by First Tee Headquarters. From being mentored by PGA TOUR Champions players at Pebble Beach to a College Scholarship Program that provides support through personal and professional development workshops and mentorship, the national opportunities invite high school students to expand horizons, meet new people and open the doors to new experiences as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities.

The announcement was made yesterday during a kick-off clinic held at Chester Washington Golf Course. Sponsored by ESPN, a First Tee Trustee, Johnson hosted the clinic for 50 youth from Beyond the Bell, an after-school program focused on providing high quality, safe and supervised programs for students in Los Angeles. The students, many of whom have not played the game of golf, had hands-on opportunities to swing a golf club in a setting that empowers them to embrace challenge and try something new.

Photos and broll from the clinic are available here. For more information on First Tee, visit www.FirstTee.org.

First Tee and John Deere Host 24 Teens for the Drive Your Future Academy

The national, all-girls’ professional development event is being held in Detroit, September 3-6

Detroit – (Sept. 3) – Twenty-four teens from First Tee chapters across the country are attending the John Deere Drive Your Future Academy this week in Detroit. Held Sept. 3-6, the academic, career and leadership development academy is hosted by First Tee and John Deere. During the event, the girls will explore topics that will help them prepare for the future including volunteerism, teamwork and remaining active in the game of golf. The curriculum will come to life through interactive workshops and team-building activities such as a community service project and golf outing. In addition, the girls will attend the Solheim Cup in Toledo, Ohio. “John Deere is proud to support the Drive Your Future Academy and congratulates the 24 girls who have earned this opportunity,” said John Watson, John Deere relationship manager of First Tee. “We know this experience will position them to build upon an already strong foundation and be positioned for great things going forward.” The teens were selected for the Drive Your Future Academy through a national application process that scored applicants based on essays, letters of recommendation, and involvement in First Tee and other activities. First Tee is a youth development organization that teaches life skills and helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf. The John Deere Drive Your Future Academy is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee Headquarters to encourage and motivate participants as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities. For more information, visit FirstTee.org.

First Tee and Southern Company present ‘Game Changers Pavilion’ at TOUR Championship

Kids and families invited to interactive experience inspired by First Tee’s mission at Southern Company’s SO COOL Zone, Sept. 1-5

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL. & ATLANTA, GA. – First Tee Game Changers Pavilion, an interactive experience inspired by First Tee’s mission to empower young people to become game changers in their communities, will debut at the 2021 TOUR Championship, Sept. 1-5, in Southern Company’s SO COOL Zone.

First Tee Game Changers Pavilion is being made possible by Southern Company, First Tee’s Education Patron, which has helped expand the First Tee School Program to communities across the country since 2012.

The 1,200 square-foot air-conditioned space will bring to life what it means to be a game changer and help connect youth attending the tournament to the excitement and personal impact associated with golf and First Tee programs offered throughout the country.  

Highlights of the immersive experience include an “Aim for Greatness” digital video board and “Make an Impact” paint wall that will provide hands-on opportunities to swing a golf club in a setting that empowers kids to embrace challenge and work together to make something beautiful.

Attendees will also be able take a photo in a life-size replica of the First Tee logo. The logo, a metaphor for growth guidance, prompts visitors to think about role models who have played an important part in their growth journey and to tag them in their social media posts. Kids are invited to top their visit off with a SO COOL snow cone.  Daily sweepstakes with prizes ranging from golf apparel and junior golf sets from First Tee partners including Adidas Golf, Bridgestone Golf, FootJoy and GolfGen will be given away daily.

“We look forward to welcoming kids and families to the Game Changers Pavilion to experience what it means to be a game changer and how we are empowering youth through golf,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “Thanks to the support of our long-time partner Southern Company, we are excited to feature the First Tee on a national stage like the TOUR Championship.” 

With the tournament welcoming fans back to East Lake Golf Club this year, the TOUR Championship has reinstated its Youth Ticket Program, which allows for two (2) youth ages 15 and under per ticketed adult to be admitted free of charge to watch the PGA TOUR’s best players compete for the FedExCup.

On Thursday morning of the tournament, the HOPE Tee Shot will honor two First Tee — Metro Atlanta participants – Marcus Leonard and Tatum Thompson – in a special ceremony on the first tee just minutes before the first pairing tees off in the TOUR Championship. The tee shot is a symbol and reminder of the hope that continues to build throughout the East Lake community as a result of the East Lake Foundation’s neighborhood revitalization efforts.

To learn more about First Tee, visit www.firsttee.org.

Twelve Exemplary High School Seniors Earn Selection in to First Tee College Scholarship Program

PONTE VEDRA, Fla. (June 2, 2021) – Twelve high school graduates have been selected to the First Tee College Scholarship Program based on academic performance, length and involvement in First Tee programs, financial need and commitment to volunteerism. This class of scholars includes aspiring engineers, accountants, teachers and environmental activists, all of whom will be attending stand out colleges and universities, including Dartmouth College, University of Pennsylvania, Boston College, Indiana University and other top institutions across the country. Selected from a national pool of candidates, the Scholars represent diverse backgrounds from communities across the First Tee network. The class is comprised of eight females and four males and 59% are ethnically diverse. The Scholars’ average GPA is 4.19 on a 4.0 scale and hold an average of 1,422 out of 1,600 on SAT and 31 out of 36 on ACT. Five of the Scholars will play on their college’s golf team. “I offer congratulations and a warm welcome to our new class of First Tee College Scholars,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “I am proud to continue First Tee’s support of these students at such an important time in their lives – through their matriculation and beyond. These outstanding young leaders remind us how bright the future is for them and for the industries and communities they will eventually serve. We are appreciative of donors to the First Tee College Scholarship Program who make this program possible.” First Tee College Scholarship Program extends its impact to alumni by providing support throughout their post-graduate career. Each of the scholars are 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 professional development workshops held in-person throughout the year. Applications were received from participants at 44 chapters in 28 states across the nation. Following an online application process, finalists were selected by a committee for one-on-one interviews. In addition to academic performance, applicants were considered based on financial need, chapter involvement, volunteerism and other criteria. First Tee College Scholarship Program is made possible by donors and corporate partners who stand behind the program and First Tee’s mission, including Astros Golf Foundation, Peter A. Bonanni Scholarship Fund, Chevron Corporation, A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation, Timothy W. Finchem Scholarship Fund, Paul and Ruth Flowers, Morrell Studios, Charles Schwab, TruGreen, Edward and Lisa Vaughan and Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Fund. First Tee’s College Scholarship Class of 2021 includes: (Listed alphabetically; all GPAs are on a 4.0 scale) Claire Alford, First Tee — Central Coast Santa Clara University Graduating with a 4.56 GPA Claire has received many honors and accolades for her hard work and plans to major in Public Health and Biology with a goal of attending medical school. Marion Caldwell, First Tee — Four Corners Dartmouth University Pursuing a future in teaching, Marion is passionate about passing down the knowledge she has obtained throughout her life to the children within her community and will major in both English and History. Natalie Cao, First Tee — Greater Houston University of Pennsylvania  Natalie strives for greatness in both the classroom and on the course and will play on the women’s golf team while majoring in economics. Molly Castle, First Tee — Tennessee University of Tennessee Knoxville As a First Tee — Tennessee participant for seven years, Molly has used that experience and her love of golf for helping others within her community. She plans to major in agriculture sciences. Malisone Chanthapanya, First Tee — Fort Worth Texas Wesleyan University With a cumulative 4.0 GPA combined with her success on the course, Malisone plans to continue her golf career at Texas Wesleyan University while double majoring in computer science and accounting. Quincy Crawford, First Tee — Greater Washington, D.C. University of Cincinnati Quincy has plans to study Aerospace Engineering in pursuit of his goal to create fuel-efficient aircrafts, lessoning the overall carbon footprint and possibly slow the rate of climate change. Rebecca Jones, First Tee — Indiana Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology Rebecca will be studying environmental engineering and plans to use her degree to focus on land remediation and implementing new systems to reduce pollution. Josh Lendach, First Tee — Triangle University of Cincinnati Josh has earned the privilege to play golf at the University of Cincinnati where he will pursue his passions for golf and environmental/atmospheric sciences. Meghna Mazumdar, First Tee — Connecticut Boston College Scoring a 1430 on her SATs while achieving a 4.12 cumulative GPA, Meghna will study Business Economics where she will pursue her passion for investing in the stock market. Benjamin Nganga, First Tee — Tennessee University of Indiana A first-generation college student, Benjamin’s 4.46 GPA has earned him the prestigious Fry Scholarship to attend the University of Indiana Kelly Business School where he will double major in Finance and Computer Science. Kaleb Palm, First Tee — Central Florida Florida Atlantic University Graduating with 4.69 GPA, Kaleb will major in marketing and business while playing on the men’s golf team at Florida Atlantic University. Borina Sutikto, First Tee — Silicon Valley Santa Clara University A nine-year participant at First Tee — Silicon Valley, Borina is graduating with a 4.25 GPA and plans to study Accounting & Information Systems while playing on the women’s golf team. *** About PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation (“First Tee”) First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization that is supported by the PGA TOUR. Its 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 3.6 million young people annually through its chapter network, in schools and at youth centers. Headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA, programs are delivered in all 50 United States and select international locations. President George W. Bush serves as Honorary Chair. Contacts: Sara Henika First Tee [email protected] Dana Gordon First Tee/BZA PR [email protected]

48 Teens Selected for Inaugural First Tee National Championship

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL. (April 28, 2021) – First Tee has announced the 48-player field for the first-ever First Tee National Championship, June 20-24, 2021 at Clemson University. The event, postponed in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, will bring together First Tee’s elite golfers for an opportunity to showcase how the program has helped build the strength of character needed to play at the collegiate or next level.

While COVID protocols will be in effect, the 54-hole event will take place and the winners of each girls’ and boys’ divisions will be awarded with the Tattersall Cup and also will earn an exemption into the PGA TOUR Champions’ PURE Insurance Championship Impacting the First Tee held at Pebble Beach Golf Links September 21-26, 2021.

“We are excited to congratulate this field of teenagers from across the U.S. who have worked hard to advance their golf games while also staying involved in school and their chapters,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “We are thankful to longtime First Tee supporter Fred Tattersall for creating this opportunity for the young people across our network of 150 chapters.”

First Tee National Championship will be held annually at various college campuses around the nation providing First Tee participants the opportunity to network with others from across the country and take in the college experience.

Clemson University’s The Walker Course is set to host the inaugural Championship. During the week, participants will have the opportunity to hear from PGA Head Golf Professional Steve Scott on how his values intersected with his experience of finishing Runner-Up to Tiger Woods in the 1996 U.S. Amateur Championship.

The field includes 24 boys and 24 girls, ages 14-19, who were selected based on their golf skill, competitive golf experience and handicap. Players will come from 32 First Tee chapters across the country. Full list of selected participants here.

First Tee is a youth development organization dedicated to helping young people learn life skills and build character through the game of golf. The National Championship is one of more than 10 national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to empower and motivate teens as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities. For more information on the tournament and First Tee, visit www.thefirsttee.org.
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About PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation (“First Tee”)
First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization that is supported by the PGA TOUR. Its 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 3.6 million young people annually through its chapter network, in schools and at youth centers. Headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA, programs are delivered in all 50 United States and select international locations. President George W. Bush serves as Honorary Chair.

Media Contact:
Dana Gordon
[email protected]
856-397-2917

CapTech Partnership Supports Teens, Drives Innovation at First Tee

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL. and RICHMOND, VA. (April 27, 2021) – CapTech, a leading technology consulting firm, and First Tee, a youth development organization that teaches life skills and helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf, today announced a new partnership that will provide First Tee participants further support and access to technology and mentorship as they progress through the program.

As a Trustee, CapTech’s investment in First Tee will support curriculum enhancements, technology innovations, ongoing research and expanding diversity and inclusion initiatives for the growing network of 150 chapters. CapTech will also lend leadership and expertise to First Tee for its national participant opportunities, including the Innovators Forum, an event that empowers First Tee teens to raise awareness of global issues through the development of a meaningful service project in their communities.

“We are proud to support a world-class organization like First Tee that shares our passion for developing and empowering young people,” said CapTech Chairman Sandy Williamson. “We believe technology can help create a more diverse and inclusive future in which youth can confidently compete on a level playing field. CapTech is committed to leveraging our capabilities as innovators, engineers and strategists to accomplish this very important purpose.”

In addition to its commitment as a Trustee, CapTech is supporting First Tee — Greater Richmond in its creation of a state-of-the-art golf technology lab at the Belmont course, newly redesigned by Davis Love III’s company, Love Golf Design. With an emphasis on inclusivity, the lab will support training and development for youth of all skill levels through the innovative use of data, design and technology. A central goal of the lab is to use data available from golf training tools, mobile devices and third-party sources to connect and integrate functionality.

“We are thankful for partners like CapTech that provide support across a number of important areas for our organization,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “We are grateful that they have engaged on multiple fronts in support of our mission.”

***

About PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation (“First Tee”)
First Tee (www.firsttee.org) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization that is supported by the PGA TOUR. Its 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 3.6 million young people annually through its chapter network, in schools and at youth centers. Headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA, programs are delivered in all 50 United States and select international locations. President George W. Bush serves as Honorary Chair.

About CapTech
CapTech is a national consulting firm that helps clients grow efficient, successful businesses. We do so by bringing the data, systems, and ingenuity organizations need to stay ahead and transform what’s possible in a changing world.  Here, we’re master builders, creators, and problem solvers who find inspiration in the unknown and enjoy getting our hands dirty as we design solutions for each client. Across industries and business goals, we fuse technical depth and analytical prowess with creative savvy to ignite innovation and move business forward. This drive helps each organization use technology, management, and insight to turn ideas into action. Together, we create outcomes that exceed the expected — which is one of the reasons we’ve been on the Inc. 500/5000 list for over a decade. Learn more about CapTech at captechconsulting.com.

Media Contacts:
Jane Fader, First Tee
904-940-4330
[email protected]

Mary Everette Cann, CapTech
917-923-6673
[email protected]

First Tee Concludes Five-Week Leadership Series for 235 Teens Nationwide in Partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore

Forty teens to be selected for annual Leadership Summit at West Creek Ranch in Montana this Summer

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. and ATLANTA, Ga. (March 24, 2021) − First Tee, a youth development organization helping kids and teens build their strength of character through golf, partnered with PGA TOUR Superstore to host a first-of-its-kind, annual leadership series over five weeks in February and March.

Teenagers across the country discovered personal values and leadership skills through interactive sessions facilitated by PGA TOUR Superstore general managers. The curriculum explored potential career fields based on interests to guide the participants as they navigate future collegiate and professional opportunities. The five-week series concluded with a virtual town hall featuring First Tee alumni and young professionals in medical, sports and communications fields.

“We are thankful to PGA TOUR Superstore for their support in helping create this incredible opportunity for so many teens to discover college and career pathways,” First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin said. “It’s important that First Tee provides opportunities where young people can explore their futures.”

Through a post-event participant survey, 95 percent of participants said they better understood their personal values and strengths, and 91 percent have set goals to work toward their interested career pathways.

“These events often become life-changing experiences for participants to expand their horizons, meet new people and learn more about themselves,” said Dick Sullivan, President & CEO, PGA TOUR Superstore. “We developed this curriculum to teach, help and encourage First Tee students as they advance through these development programs on their way to pursuing higher education opportunities.”

For participants like Nancy Rivera of San Jose, Calif., the Leadership Series was an opportunity to share a personal story about how First Tee values of giving back and respecting diversity have impacted her. Rivera is hoping to be the first in her family to attend college.

Experiencing national First Tee opportunities like the Leadership Series, she says, is playing a big role in making her collegiate dream that much closer to a reality. She has been a participant of First Tee – Silicon Valley since 2017. She is a student at University Preparatory Academy in San Jose where she is working on a plan to attend a four-year university or college in the fall of 2022.

“I am proud to be part of a group that promotes respect, appreciating diversity and provides tools on how to help and think of others,” Rivera said. “Respect is a big part of our daily lives, especially living in the Bay Area where we have a diverse community. I’ve learned what it means to truly, actively listen and see how listening involves asking follow-up questions to better understand the perspectives of others.

“So far we have worked together to organize food drives every week, supported different causes such as Black Lives Matter, and different organizations that help our environment.”

The Leadership Series was hosted in 27 communities across the country with PGA TOUR Superstores and First Tee chapters. Forty teens who completed the series will be selected in June for the first-ever First Tee Leadership Summit, which takes place this August at PGA TOUR Superstore Chairman and PGA TOUR First Tee Foundation Board Member Arthur M. Blank’s West Creek Ranch in Montana.

The 40 teens who will be selected for the First Tee Leadership Summit at West Creek Ranch in Montana this August will take part in interactive workshops and outdoor leadership trainings. The summit will include First Tee’s core competencies of building character, self-confidence and resilience as a part of the experience, combined with a robust curriculum of leadership and professional development. At the conclusion of the Summit, four students will be selected to be part of the First Tee College Scholarship Program thanks to PGA TOUR Superstore.

For more than a decade, PGA TOUR Superstore and Mr. Blank have championed First Tee’s mission through charitable and in-kind donations across the country. In September 2020, PGA TOUR Superstore announced a new grant that will help First Tee reach more children across the U.S. and strengthen its curriculum for teenage participants, including the development of this new Leadership Series and Summit.

The Leadership Series and Summit is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to inspire and equip teens on a deeper level as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities.

Photos and a pre-packaged video feature are available here. For more information on First Tee, visit www.firsttee.org.

First Tee Launches Inaugural Leadership Series in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore

Teens across the country kick off a five-week leadership series 

 ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. and ATLANTA, Ga. (February 8, 2021) − First Tee, a youth development organization that helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf, has launched a first-of-its-kind leadership series this week with support from PGA TOUR Superstore. The First Tee Leadership Series in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore is an interactive five-week series designed to provide teens the opportunity to discover their personal values and emerging leadership strengths. Through the series, teens also begin to explore potential career fields based on those findings and frame out multi-year goals to guide them as they navigate future career opportunities. “It is powerful for teens to have the opportunity and guidance to start uncovering insights about who they are and how they can translate their interests, values and strengths into career choices,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “We are thankful for PGA TOUR Superstore for supporting this Leadership Series that will empower teens to pursue their goals and passions and be leaders in their career and fields of choice.” Throughout the series, the teens will also meet and hear from PGA TOUR Superstore associates and First Tee alumni who will share personal accounts of their career paths and experiences. The Leadership Series – which was co-created between First Tee and PGA TOUR Superstore – is being hosted in 27 communities across the country where there is a store and a First Tee chapter. PGA TOUR Superstore general managers will facilitate the interactive sessions between Feb. 8 and March 15 either virtually or in stores and chapters, with safe and socially distant protocols in place. Once the participants complete the series, they will be eligible to apply for the First Tee Leadership Summit in partnership with PGA TOUR Superstore. The Summit will be held this August at PGA TOUR Superstore Chairman Arthur M.  Blank’s West Creek Ranch in Montana. Forty teens will be selected for the Summit where they’ll take part in interactive workshops and outdoor leadership trainings. The Summit will include First Tee’s core competencies of building character, self-confidence and resilience as a part of the experience, combined with a robust curriculum of leadership and professional development. “At PGA TOUR Superstore, we are committed to giving back and being a positive influence in our communities,” said Dick Sullivan, President & CEO, PGA TOUR Superstore. “We truly believe in the purposeful impact sports can have in developing and supporting youth. PGA TOUR Superstore is proud to have supported First Tee for more than a decade, working together to open the door to more kids, especially inviting those who are in underserved communities.” In September, PGA TOUR Superstore announced a new grant that will help First Tee reach more children across the U.S. and strengthen its curriculum for teenage participants, including the development of this new Leadership Series and Summit. The Leadership Series and Summit is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to inspire and equip teens on a deeper level as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities. These events often become life-changing experiences for participants to expand their horizons, meet new people, learn more about themselves and prepare for their futures. For more information on First Tee, visit www.firsttee.org.

First Tee Game Changers Academy to Explore Issues of Race and Equality with Teen Participants

First Tee has partnered with RISE to facilitate the national event held July 20-24 in Philadelphia

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (January 18, 2021) − First Tee, a youth development organization that helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf, will host the First Tee Game Changers Academy Honoring Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. at Holy Family University in Philadelphia, July 20-24, 2021. First Tee teens attending this five-day learning and empowerment academy will participate in critical conversations around issues of identity, racism, equity and empathy.

The event will feature engaging and interactive workshops facilitated by RISE, a national nonprofit and leader in the sports community championing social justice and working to improve race relations. The workshops will be paired with introspective activities and reflections led by our nationally trained First Tee coaches and keynote speakers from the sports industry including Philadelphia native and PGA TOUR Chief Legal Officer, Len Brown. First Tee – Greater Philadelphia will host the teens for golf outings at John F. Byrne Golf Course where they will continue to build upon their connections with other participants from around the country and hear different perspectives from their peers. The Academy builds throughout the week into a final outreach project in Philadelphia.

“The events of 2020 have reinforced the need for dialogue and to provide a platform for our teens to explore critical topics like diversity, equity and inclusion,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “Joe Louis Barrow, Jr., has always been an advocate for social justice and I’m proud to carry forward his passion through an event that will empower our participants to be game changers in their community.”

This Academy is an evolution of our longest standing participant event, the Life Skills Academy Honoring Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. The enhanced event addresses the challenges our teens face in their daily lives and better equips them to build the strength of character to be game changers in their communities. The Academy honors First Tee’s former CEO, Joe Louis Barrow, Jr., who led the organization from 2000 until his retirement in 2017.

“First Tee has and always will be a program that encourages personal growth and life skill development that young people can take with them wherever they go,” said Barrow. “I’m grateful to be associated with an event that will serve as an important platform for critical conversations on the subject of racial equity. I believe it will have a significant impact on the young people who attend, and ultimately their families and communities.”

First Tee Game Changers Academy Honoring Joe Louis Barrow, Jr. is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters designed to inspire and encourage high school students on a deeper level as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities. Ninety-six First Tee teens will be selected for this event via an application process that opens Feb. 9.

First Tee is a youth development organization that enables kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, First Tee creates 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 six international locations.

For more information on First Tee, visit www.firsttee.org.

TruGreen Supports First Tee College Scholarship Program, Opening Doors to the Next Generation of Scientific Leaders

Program to provide educational opportunities for the youth of First Tee looking to integrate their passions into science-based careers

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (October 13, 2020) – TruGreen, the nation’s leading lawn care provider, and First Tee, a youth development organization using golf as a catalyst for personal growth, today announced a new partnership supporting the expansion of the First Tee College Scholarship Program to include alumni pursuing careers in agronomy, plant science and other science-based professions.

With TruGreen as a Trustee, this program expansion will provide First Tee alumni with valuable opportunities to incorporate their learnings and leadership development into a career in the sciences. First Tee College Scholarship Program pairs First Tee alumni with dedicated, trained adult mentors who help encourage and guide them throughout the college experience, including virtual and in-person meetups. TruGreen associates will serve as mentors and contribute to professional development and educational sessions, helping to share industry knowledge and science-based expertise with the students. The program also provides scholarships up to $5,000 per year for four years, and scholars will receive assistance with internships and full-time employment placement post-graduation.

“At TruGreen, we’re committed to our mission to Live Life Outside through the local expertise we offer our customers along with our contributions to local communities,” said John Cowles, President & CEO of TruGreen. “Our partnership with First Tee allows us to support deserving students across the country as they pursue their dreams of higher education while sharing our love of the outdoors with the next generation of leaders.”

At the end of September, TruGreen previewed its commitment to First Tee with an $80,000 donation to First Tee — Greater Philadelphia to support their Drive for the Future Initiative. With this contribution, the John F. Byrne Golf Club will be transformed into an innovative outdoor classroom, serving as the heart of First Tee’s educational and character development programs in northeast Philadelphia.

“Pursuing a college degree is both competitive and challenging for today’s graduating high school students,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “We’re grateful for TruGreen’s commitment to young adults through our First Tee College Scholarship Program. Through this meaningful partnership, we will be able to support additional First Tee alumni through their college experience while leveraging the vast resources of TruGreen and its dedicated employees.”

First Tee is a youth development organization that enables kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. 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.

Applications will open to First Tee students in early 2021. For more information on First Tee or the First Tee College Scholarship Program, visit firsttee.org.

For more information about TruGreen, visit trugreen.com and follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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.