“Success in this game depends less on strength of body than strength of mind and character.” – Arnold Palmer
For my shopping spree in the ActiveRain Point Store this month, I'm giving 200,000 points for the First Tee youth golf program in Central Washington. This is equivalent to $20,000.
Youth Development Through Golf:
First Tee merges golf instruction with character education, teaching kids aged 5 - 18 how to manage emotions, set goals, be a team player, use good judgment... and more in a fun environment.
The program is not just about swing mechanics: it's a hands-on class in life skills. As indicated in the Feature Image above, the FirstTee Program curriculum incorporates nine core values.
Our First Tee of Central Washington operates in both the Yakima and Wenatchee Valleys. This regional program serves roughly 550 youth annually:
400 in Yakima
150 in Wenatchee
My gift will empower even more participants to attend, regardless of financial need.
With or without my gift, no one is turned away. Registration fees are modest, and financial aid is provided for those who need it. My $20,000 contribution, though, can support several dozen kids in the program.
We are not alone in our efforts. This nationwide organization has 51 chapters.
The program thrives thanks to local volunteers and coaches, including assistant mentors who don’t have to be expert golfers. My gift will help strengthen the program by funding coach training, scholarships, and events.
First Tee alumni nationwide credit the program for personal breakthroughs, gaining the confidence to speak publicly, lead community projects, or overcome challenges like autism. These transformations happen locally, too. Every gift helps in some way.
$20,000 isn’t a drop in the bucket for a local nonprofit... it’s a multiplier of possibilities:
New coaches can be hired and trained, increasing program frequency
Leagues, camps, and clinics can expand, reaching more kids
New equipment and safety support ensure high-quality, inclusive access
Each year, contributions help expand the circle of opportunity, potentially doubling the number of kids it reaches.
Fun Fact: Several PGA and LPGA Pros got their start in the First Tee Program.
While only a small percentage of First Tee participants go on to play professionally, thousands go on to become collegiate golfers, coaches, business leaders, and community mentors. Many receive college scholarships and remain lifelong ambassadors for the game of golf.
Some of you may recall, that part of my epic road trip in 2021 was raising money for First Tee. It did raise several thousand dollars.
In addition to my 200,000 fictional AR Points donation, First Tee has been named as a Charitable bequest in my Will.
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