A study published last year by researchers at the University of Texas shows adolescents who volunteer in their communities are less likely to experience anxiety or behavioral issues and more likely to be very healthy.
Those are just a few reasons you may want to talk to your child or teen about giving back in 2024.
“Engaging in service has been linked to increased overall happiness and higher self-esteem, but I think having a greater perspective and empathy towards others are the most intrinsic benefits,” said Robbie Lowman, who oversees the First Tee College Scholarship Program and has worked in financial aid for more than a decade.
It’s no secret that volunteer work can bolster a college admissions or scholarship application.
“Service can demonstrate an applicant’s ability to take initiative, organize events and lead projects while showing signs of growth, resilience and adaptability,” Lowman said. But Lowman warned community service isn’t just a box to check on college applications. “It is a meaningful aspect of a student’s personal and academic journey. It reflects their values, character and commitment to making a positive difference in the world.”
Encourage your child to find a project they’re passionate about
There are many ways for kids and teens to get involved in their communities depending on their passions and interests. Nancy Rivera is a Scholar from First Tee – Silicon Valley and student at Middlebury College in Vermont. While in high school, she saw that Latinx members of her community needed support, so she started a Latinx club at her school, volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, hosted food drives and even worked with a district councilmember to host college admissions classes for DREAM Act students and families.
“When we received her First Tee College Scholarship Program application, her community service record showed us that she is willing to collaborate with others, make sacrifices to strengthen her community and is not afraid to follow her values into important projects,” Lowman said.
Rivera wants to be the voice for Latinx families who have limited representation. With her community service accomplishments, that goal doesn’t sound far out of reach.
Giving back to the community has so many benefits that Lowman and his team prioritize it during annual professional development events for First Tee Scholars. For example, the group has hosted a beach cleanup and packed school supplies for students at a Title I school. The projects promote teamwork and collaboration, Lowman explained.
Helping your child identify their personal values
There are many ways to serve others, but community service typically has the greatest impact when it connects back to your personal values. As you discuss volunteering with your child, consider starting with these questions:
What in life is important to you?
How do you know that something is important to you?
What does it show about your values when you say one thing but do another?
If your child values academic success, they could volunteer as a tutor. Or if health and wellness is important to them, perhaps they could coach younger kids in sports. Once you’ve helped your child determine their personal values, that’s a good starting point for getting involved.
If your teen is a First Tee participant, we encourage you to learn more about Innovators Forum a national opportunity focused on giving back. During the annual event, which will take place in Phoenix this November, a team of expert facilitators helps each participant develop a community service project to implement at home.
Brunswick is a beautiful place on Georgia’s historic coastal plain, but it’s not a big city. In a small community like Brunswick, it’s pretty easy to stay informed, said Jim Ruger, a coach at First Tee – Golden Isles.
“About a month ago in the local newspaper, I saw a photo of a high school girl. I knew her from participating in our chapter through the Boys & Girls Club”, he said. “She had no golf experience, but made a sincere effort at golf and to learn the First Tee’s core values. The caption to the photo stated she earned a partial scholarship and plans to attend Mercer University and become an OBGYN.”
It’s stories like that – “and she’s not the only one that comes to mind,” Ruger said – along with the dedicated staff at First Tee – Golden Isles that have kept him engaged with the organization for a decade.
Ruger’s dad got him into golf when he was just a kid, and his passion for the sport grew when he moved from Cincinnati in 1998 to work as a legal instructor at Glynco, a federal law enforcement training facility in southeast Georgia, an area also known for its spectacular golf courses. First Tee – Golden Isles presents after school and weekend programs at many of these golf courses.
In fact, the eyes of the golf world will be on nearby Sea Island this week for The RSM Classic, a PGA TOUR event. During this week’s tournament, First Tee – Golden Isles will be operating the Youth Zone, featuring putting, inflatables and an autograph area.
Back in 2013, when First Tee – Golden Isles was just launching, the tournament played an important role in bringing Ruger into First Tee’s fold. The RSM’s organizer, the Davis Love Foundation, reached out to tournament volunteers to see if they might be interested in getting involved with a new First Tee chapter.
Ruger had just retired and wanted to volunteer with kids. He’s since gone on to attend Level 1 coach training and more recently Level 2 coach training in Augusta. “It was really great to spend three days with coaches from other chapters to learn and share ideas,” he said.
For Ruger, the best moments as a coach often come when he’s working with a participant on a particular aspect of their game, and he starts to see them demonstrating the values they’ve learned at First Tee. And he enjoys the enthusiasm they bring to any type of competition, he said.
“Each summer, our chapter presents programs at several Boys & Girls Clubs around the county where we’ll set up nets, targets and putting greens in the gym and give them golf instruction,” he said. “At the end of the summer, each club sends four kids to a local golf club for Drive, Chip and Putt competition. They really seem to enjoy that,” he said.
“Our more experienced golfers play on a team we sponsor in the PGA Jr. League. In addition, our chapter partners with local school districts in middle school golf leagues. This gives our kids the opportunity to advance from beginner to more experienced golfers. Most rewarding, several of our participants who are now in high school volunteer coaching our youngest golfers.”
Up to $32,000 in scholarships will be awarded to participants whose projects generate the greatest impact
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL – (Nov. 9, 2023) – Twenty-eight exemplary teens from across the U.S. will attend the First Tee Innovators Forum in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, home of the PGA TOUR, from Nov. 9-12. Each student will spend four days conceptualizing an original community service project with guidance from First Tee and its partners. Participants will then implement the projects when they return home, with the opportunity to earn a share of up to $32,000 to support future educational pursuits.
During the event, participants will hear from seven-time PGA TOUR winner Billy Horschel, who has demonstrated his commitment to growing diversity in golf and supporting his neighbors in northeast Florida through his own philanthropic endeavors. The teens will participate in interactive workshops and small breakout sessions covering a variety of topics including education, healthcare advocacy and programming.
They will also learn about sustainability on an eco-cruise through the estuaries of nearby St. Augustine with support from TruGreen and receive counsel on their projects from technology consulting firm CapTech, both First Tee Trustees.
Parts of the event will take place at PGA TOUR Global Home and TPC Sawgrass. The purpose of the event is to encourage participants to become innovators in their respective communities, culminating with each teen presenting the plans for their project.
“Our participants have produced creative and impactful community service projects since this event launched – addressing issues like food insecurity and environmental sustainability – and we look forward to seeing what this group of impressive teens will uncover throughout the event week,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “Thank you to Doug MacKenzie for making this event possible, and for our partners CapTech and TruGreen for participating in the experience.”
The 28 teens attending the forum were selected based on academic achievement, community service, chapter involvement, leadership, essay responses and letters of recommendation.
First Tee is a youth development organization teaching life skills and helping kids and teens build their strength of character through golf. The First Tee Innovators Forum is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee Headquarters to encourage and motivate participants as they progress through the program and toward high school graduation.
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. In 2022, First Tee celebrates its 25th anniversary and reaching millions of kids and teens through its network of 150 chapters, 10,000 schools and 1,700 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.
Each story below shares about a specific student whose life was positively impacted by First Tee West Michigan’s ‘extra’ opportunities. Your gift at year-end helps us “Go Deeper” with kids and teens in 2024 and secures a $30,000 matching gift from Charles Schwab.
Andrew DeYoung | 25 years old | First Tee Alum – Ferris State University | PGA Professional at Deal CC in New Jersey & Division 1 Head Golf Coach at Monmouth University
“Going Deeper” Initiative: First Tee Leadership Trips
Written December 26, 2023
Andrew participated in our chapter’s first and second national opportunities, applying to a nationwide panel of First Tee interviewees and being selected for trips to Naples, FL (First Tee Champions Challenge) and Washington D.C. (Perfect Sense Unified Challenge) to complete and learn together with students from other First Tee chapters around the country. Hear how his trip to Washington D.C. made an impact on his life!
Andrew joined First Tee at age 13 in 2011, attending the organization’s inaugural open-to-the-public class. Displaying a natural talent for golf, Andrew, who learned the game from his late father, became a valued member of the First Tee family. His mother, Kathi, enrolled him at The Highlands Golf Course, marking the beginning of Andrew’s journey.
Andrew, age 13, in his early days at First Tee
While at Kenowa High School, Andrew played golf for four years and consistently advanced through First Tee’s program levels. Despite occasional challenges in staying focused and making decisions affecting his academics and golf, Andrew’s potential shone through.
Encouraged by First Tee Executive Director Tyler Smies, Andrew applied for a national opportunity to visit Washington D.C. Selected for the experience, he spent a week at Congressional Country Club, playing with PGA Tour Professional Tommy “Two Gloves” Gainey and meeting Jordan Spieth. This transformative trip ignited a newfound focus for Andrew to mentor younger students.
Andrew with PGA Tour star Jordan Spieth in 2014 at the First Tee National Opportunity in Washington D.C.
“He came back different. It’s like a light bulb switched for him,” Executive Director Tyler Smies said. “After that trip to D.C., he was extremely focused on helping younger students and giving back. And he never looked back.”
Post-trip and upon high school graduation, Andrew pursued a degree in Professional Golf Management at Ferris State University.
Andrew passing his Playing Ability Test as a Freshman at Ferris State University, to become a PGA Professional
Graduating in 2021, he returned to Deal Golf and Country Club in New Jersey as an Assistant Golf Professional, after interning there while at Ferris. Now Andrew runs the club’s junior golf program, and his dedication there led to his hiring as Head Coach of Monmouth University’s Division 1 Golf program at the age of 25.
Andrew DeYoung, far right, Head Coach of D1 Monmouth University Golf Team this fall
“To see Andrew grow so much through First Tee – West Michigan, and then to have such an immense and immediate impact on kids and young men in his career – it’s tremendous. His journey went full circle – from being the teenager who needed someone in his life, to becoming that someone for other kids and young men,” Smies said.
Since Andrew’s trip, more than twenty First Tee students have embarked on national opportunities, broadening their horizons through golf, leadership, and travel experiences.
To ensure future students benefit from life-changing opportunities like Andrew’s, your support is crucial. Please consider donating before midnight to help us reach our $30,000 matching gift opportunity!
Lindsay began at First Tee at the age of 13 in 2013. From the outset, she was dedicated to improving and had aspirations of playing college golf. With Lindsay so dedicated to her game and First Tee, she got a multitude of opportunities to learn and grow through the program.
Lindsay, age 14, with LPGA star Paula Creamer in 2014
Lindsay applied and was selected to participate in Life Skills and Leadership Academy and the First Tee Champions Challenge, traveling free of charge to Philadelphia, PA and Naples, FL when she was 16 and 17 years old. She also got to caddie for a round with LPGA winner Megan Khang at the Meijer LPGA Classic upon graduating high school, and met Paula Creamer as she just started in First Tee.
Lindsay, age 18, preparing to caddie for LPGA winner Megan Khang
Lindsay, at age 16 alongside First Tee grad Robert Butler meeting Masters Champion Larry Mize on her all-expense paid trip to Naples, FL in the First Tee Champions Challenge.
Even with all these experiences playing and learning through golf herself, Lindsay knew she wanted to try her hand at coaching. So, in 2017, Lindsay started as one of our first four junior coaches – a paid position for teenagers in the program, built to develop leadership and organization habits. During that time, she fell in love with teaching kids.
“The junior coach program helped me realize I wanted to be a teacher. Being on the course also allowed me to practice teaching and learn the qualities of being a great teacher and a mentor to the younger participants.”
What Lindsay helped start is now a fundamental development and leadership program of the chapter. This summer, more than 25 teenagers who grew up in First Tee were junior coaches, assisting or leading 1-5 classes per week, depending on their availability and interest. This year, more than $50,000 in payroll was paid out to current First Tee students or Alumni in the form of coaching or job training experience in fields like marketing, event planning, fundraising, and accounting. In addition, The Phil DeBoer Memorial Scholarship helped pay an additional $13,000 in college scholarships to nine First Tee – West Michigan grads this year alone. Lindsay was multiple-time winner of the scholarship, being awarded in 2020 and 2021.
Upon high school graduation, Lindsay headed to Aquinas College, playing golf there but knowing that through her experience as a junior coach at First Tee, she wanted to become an educator. Each summer in college, Lindsay would return to work at First Tee, now leading the class with other adult mentors and younger junior coaches assisting her. Each of the past three summers, Lindsay has led our LPGA*USGA Girls Golf classes at Kaufman GC, all while gaining experience and schooling in how to become a teacher.
This fall, after graduating from Aquinas, Lindsay began as a kindergarten teacher for the first time at Holy Trinity Catholic School in Comstock Park. Her classroom was set up with one of her best friends from First Tee by her side, and many First Tee donors and volunteers pitching in for supplies.
“The junior coach program has shaped me into the teacher I am today. I wouldn’t be the same without the experience I had coaching for First Tee.”
Now, you can help support our next generation of junior coaches. Graduates like Lindsay are Game Changers right here in West Michigan – your gift helps First Tee cultivate our next generation of leaders!
Elias Aouad | 26 years old |First Tee Alum | Bethany Christian Services
“Going Deeper” Initiative: Homework & Hitting
Written December 20, 2023
Elias was our very first participant in 2012 at Homework & Hitting, our winter tutoring and swing training program. Hear from Elias how Homework & Hitting made an impact on his game, his school, and now his career:
First Tee alumni Elias Aoaud on the impact of Homework & Hitting
After one six-class session at First Tee in the fall of 2011 in Grand Rapids, Elias was hooked on golf. He wanted to play high school golf the following spring. So Executive Director Tyler Smies bought a hitting net and began working with Elias in the basement of the Elks Lodge at the Highlands, now part of Blandford Nature Center. The following spring, Elias made the high school golf team, and thanks to golf training and academic assistance Elias received, Homework & Hitting was born.
Elias at Homework & Hitting in 2013 at The Highlands Golf Course
More than 10 years later, Homework & Hitting is going strong in Grand Rapids, Muskegon, Holland, and Kalamazoo. More than 200 participants will receive tutoring and swing-training help at 20 area locations in West Michigan this winter. But it all started with Elias.
Elias shared, “It’s hard to believe that it’s been 12 years since Homework & Hitting started. I remember when the idea of it was first brought up. To say I was excited was an understatement. The program allowed for year-round coaching and allowed me to learn about the game as well as keep up with my studies.
“Help with schoolwork was especially important for me – having dedicated study time where I could focus on my school work and get help if I was stuck. “
Keeping good grades meant I was able to continue playing for my high school team and with help from Homework & Hitting, it allowed me to do just that.”
Elias, with golf legend Jack Nicklaus in 2013
Now a Network Administrator for Bethany Christian Services, Elias was First Tee’s first graduate in 2015 and went on to get his bachelor’s at Davenport University. During his time at Davenport and years after, he’d come back to volunteer at Homework & Hitting.
“I knew that once I was no longer a student with First Tee, I wanted to give back in some way. Shortly after my graduation, I asked about volunteering at Homework & Hitting.
“Coming back to First Tee as a volunteer after graduating and being able to help those who were in my shoes was beyond gratifying.“
Helping students learn more about the game of golf, correcting swings, and teaching them that golf is a fun sport.
“First Tee opened doors for me professionally, too. I was able to secure my first job in my career through the connections I made with other volunteers after I graduated.”
“I have nothing but gratitude for First Tee as they helped shape me into the adult and golfer I am today.” – Elias Aouad, 2015 graduate
The Next Generation is here
Finally, Claudia is at the beginning of her journey, participating in Homework & Hitting for the first time this winter. On her first day of class, Claudia immediately grabbed a putter and told Coach Brian she wanted to become the best putter in the class. At just seven years old, Claudia is already outperforming the older boys in the class on the putting course. In addition to her Homework & Hitting sessions with Coach Brian, she’s also receiving lessons from the Director of Instruction and PGA Professional, Randy White. First Tee will be with her as she learns and grows through the game of golf.
Your support at year-end helps the next generation of kids like Elias become better versions of themselves on and off the course. Give today and support deeper level impact like Homework & Hitting.
James started participating in First Tee at the age of 7 in 2017 at Stormy Creek Golf Course. Now, at age 14, James is one of our strongest golfers in the program. James has benefitted from several ‘Going Deeper’ programs beyond First Tee’s traditional life skills and values programs while on scholarship at First Tee.
2. James participates at First Tee’s summer and fall leagues at Indian Trails GC in Grand Rapids.
3. James at our year-end tournament with college golfers at Kaufman GC in 2020.
4. James participating in his first Golf Marathon Fundraiser in 2023 at Gracewil GC.
Question: What did you learn through your first golf Marathon Experience? Answer, from James: “I learned that you have to be fast if you want a big number of holes!”
James’ game has blossomed in the last two years, thanks to all these opportunities and taking full advantage of our Play 9 program, giving free access to playing nine-hole rounds with First Tee mentors at three different golf courses in Grand Rapids.
This year at First Tee, James played 13 nine-hole rounds for free at Kent Country Club, Cascade Hills CC, and Indian Trails GC through the Play 9 program. He did these all by June 30, before his tournament schedule with program partner West Michigan Junior Tour began. James, quiet and reserved by nature, said of these playing opportunities, “They’ve helped me practice and make sure my swing is in sync.”
The above courses all provided access for free or at a discounted rate in 2023 for First Tee – West Michigan’s Play 9 initiative.
James participated in the West Michigan Junior Tour and wrapped up his fourth effort with a 1st place finish at The Meadows GC, firing a dazzling 74 on July 27th, 2023.
While James led the way playing 13 nine-hole rounds for free this year, 250 rounds were played by First Tee scholarship participants, who receive First Tee six-class sessions free of charge because of their family’s income. For students to receive these 250 free rounds, more than $2,900 was spent on text messages to families and background-screened and SAFESPORT-trained mentors (72,500 texts sent). More information on the rounds played is shown below in the graph.
First Tee is thrilled to be able to provide meaningful opportunities to play, and more importantly, build relationships with our participants. As any golfer can tell you, two hours on the golf course can build a friendship or mentorship that can last a lifetime. 70% of our parents this year said their child/teen gained someone they view as a mentor. For students that have participated for 4+ years like James, 89% say they’ve gained someone they view as a mentor. We have seen our participants grow and develop through this initiative, but this initiative has real costs:
Jayden | 14 years old | East Rockford Middle School
“Going Deeper” Initiative: Caddying & the Evans Scholarship
Written November 27, 2023
While more than 2,000 students participated in First Tee West Michigan’s core programs this year, Jayden has fully immersed himself in many ‘deeper’ programs including caddying, volunteer mentoring, and our golf marathon fundraiser.
Jayden started at First Tee at the age of 9, participating at Kaufman and Indian Trails his first two years. At age 10, Jayden began a relationship that has blossomed into a true friendship with Coach and staff member Chris Hashley.
Hashley, a self-admitted golf junkie, started coaching Jayden at First Tee’s 9-hole junior league at Indian Trails – a place for aspiring competitive golfers to have their first experience competing against other students their age and ability. That relationship blossomed over time, but came to full bloom at the start of this summer at the age of 13, when Jayden began caddying for Hashley and several other members at Blythefield Country Club.
Hashley, who last year took another First Tee caddie for his league night, was excited to get Jayden on his bag for as many caddie rounds as possible this summer. Through that relationship, Jayden impressed enough other members at Blythefield CC so much that he was able to secure more than 35 loops as a caddie, earning thousands of dollars while building impactful relationships with dozens of members at the club. Hashley has become a mentor for Jayden, attending middle school basketball games and tennis matches when not working with Jayden on the golf course.
Jayden’s other highlights as a caddie this year included caddying Tom Coomes to a victory of the Men’s Senior Championship (picture below) and caddying for a round with golf social-media star Patrick Koenig, who broke the world record for the number of 18-hole golf courses played in a calendar year.
Jayden’s mom, Becca, has become First Tee’s biggest champion. “Thanks for creating a program that allows kids to really grow and develop as amazing human beings. Jayden is more excited about golf now than ever – he was just out walking 18 holes all by himself last week! He’s having so much fun – he’s planning to play this winter at First Tee – AND is bringing 2 friends with him!”
Giving Back
In addition to caddying, Jayden participated in First Tee’s six-class sessions and also began volunteering through First Tee’s junior mentor program. He volunteered as a mentor this spring with an age 7-9 class in Grand Rapids and had a blast. “The most fun thing for me was that I could see how much fun the kids were having. When I told the kids class was ending, one kid said ‘aaaaahhhh, I don’t want to leave!’
Jayden also participated in First Tee’s Golf Marathon Fundraiser this spring, raising $320 for our students on scholarship.
Caddying & the Evans Scholarship
More than a dozen First Tee – West Michigan students caddie at nearby golf courses, including Blythefield CC, Kent CC, Wuskowhan GC and also at Sankaty Head Golf Club in Nantucket Island. First Tee also started its own caddie program at the municipal golf course Indian Trails GC with 6 students. One of the main objectives: give more First Tee students a chance at a full-ride, room and board college scholarship through the Evans Foundation. Currently, four First Tee – West Michigan graduates have received the life-changing Evans scholarship, and are currently attending the University of Michigan or Michigan State free of charge. Four years from now, Jayden might be First Tee’s next student to receive the scholarship.
At year-end, First Tee – West Michigan needs your help to provide more deep-impact opportunities to students like Jayden.
909 students received free programs this year at First Tee (up 101 kids from last year).
More donors than ever supported First Tee – but their average gift was smaller this year.
We need your help to help raise $158,000 between now and year-end.
An additional $30,000 matching gift is available, from Charles Schwab, if you help us reach our year-end goal. Can you support students like Jayden through a gift to First Tee? Thank you for your consideration!
Stay tuned for stories on the various additional program opportunities First Tee provides that shape our students’ and alumnis’ trajectories for decades to come.
How has the Scholar program positively impacted you since being selected for this year’s class?
The Scholar program has been an extension of my experience with the First Tee: I feel very supported. During our First Tee Scholars Pre-College Retreat, I learned advice from experts on how to acclimate and make an impact on campus.
Besides bonding with the other Scholars who would be embarking on a similar adventure, I was surprised with college branded attire. Sporting my WashU shirt made me excited to begin school!
Before I moved into my dorm, the Scholars program connected me with a mentor who works in St Louis. (I talk with her monthly and she assisted me with research for my Management 100 class case competition.)
I can’t wait to reunite with other Scholars at the Winter Workshop!
If someone had never heard about First Tee, what would you tell them?
Because I grew up with the First Tee, it’s a part of my identity.
From First Tee, I learned life lessons and golf rules, experienced once-in-a-lifetime golf moments, received unparalleled support, and received advice from accomplished golfers.
Since I am the first in my family to play golf, I relied upon my First Tee coach and the Birdie Yardage Book to teach me golf rules. I had to learn them because when I was 10, I was called on for a false rule and accepted a one-stroke penalty. (After mastering the rules, I never lost a stroke due to my ignorance.)
More importantly, I learned to make friends older than me after hearing the “meeting and greeting” lesson. Because I was the only 5th grader to qualify for my middle school club golf team, I was hesitant at first to speak with my older (and taller) teammates.
As I asked open ended questions, listened, and responded to their answers, it became easier to ask. Before the end of the season, these older golfers became my friends, and we still keep in touch (They even coined a nickname for me: “Ma man.”)
If it weren’t for First Tee, I would have missed out on my best life memories. With my coach’s encouragement, I applied for the national First Tee opportunity to play at Pebble Beach Golf Links as an eighth grader.
First Tee also arranged for me to meet Jack Nicklaus – my role model ever since I wrote my fourth-grade book report on him.
I have been amazed by the unwavering support I’ve received from First Tee over the years. When the Ohio High School Athletic Association initially rejected my waiver request to play at the PURE Insurance Championship, my executive director advocated for me at the hearing. She also answered my questions for my 4-H research project and served as one of my college application recommenders. All of my First Tee coaches have been my greatest cheerleaders.
Role models like them have inspired me to give back and help promote the game of golf. I volunteered as a golf coach for three First Tee summer camps and one winter session. Last summer I convinced my high school golf team co-captains to co-host “Pay It Forward” golf clinics to raise money to fund students to attend First Tee summer camps. This spring I posted my golf drill tips on social media as a virtual fundraiser.
I’m grateful to the First Tee for nurturing me over the years and will continue to support it long after I graduate high school.
About First Tee College Scholarship Program
At First Tee, we believe that helping young people build strength of character is fundamental to success in life. Our active learning experiences are all about ensuring young people build inner strength, self-confidence and resilience, so when they face new challenges they are equipped to overcome them.
Going beyond our core programs, the enhanced First Tee College Scholarship Program is designed to provide further support, life skill development and mentorship of our alumni through their journey. Higher education continues to be a critical factor in unlocking opportunities for young people to thrive, and First Tee is committed to their success.
First Tee College Scholarship Program supports selected alumni throughout their college career. The need and merit-based program provides scholarships up to $5,000 per year, renewable for up to four years of college admission. The program also provides professional development workshops, access to internships and full-time employment placement post-graduation. One of the key factors of the program is pairing Scholars with a dedicated adult mentor who will help encourage and guide them throughout the four years.
The program is open to graduating high school seniors planning to attend college the following year. Applicants must be active members of First Tee chapters and will be considered based on financial need, academic performance, chapter involvement, volunteerism and other criteria.
How has the Scholar program positively impacted you since being selected for this year’s class?
The Scholar program has been an extension of my experience with the First Tee: I feel very supported. During our First Tee Scholars Pre-College Retreat, I learned advice from experts on how to acclimate and make an impact on campus.
Besides bonding with the other Scholars who would be embarking on a similar adventure, I was surprised with college branded attire. Sporting my WashU shirt made me excited to begin school!
Before I moved into my dorm, the Scholars program connected me with a mentor who works in St Louis. (I talk with her monthly and she assisted me with research for my Management 100 class case competition.)
I can’t wait to reunite with other Scholars at the Winter Workshop!
If someone had never heard about First Tee, what would you tell them?
Because I grew up with the First Tee, it’s a part of my identity.
From First Tee, I learned life lessons and golf rules, experienced once-in-a-lifetime golf moments, received unparalleled support, and received advice from accomplished golfers.
Since I am the first in my family to play golf, I relied upon my First Tee coach and the Birdie Yardage Book to teach me golf rules. I had to learn them because when I was 10, I was called on for a false rule and accepted a one-stroke penalty. (After mastering the rules, I never lost a stroke due to my ignorance.)
More importantly, I learned to make friends older than me after hearing the “meeting and greeting” lesson. Because I was the only 5th grader to qualify for my middle school club golf team, I was hesitant at first to speak with my older (and taller) teammates.
As I asked open ended questions, listened, and responded to their answers, it became easier to ask. Before the end of the season, these older golfers became my friends, and we still keep in touch (They even coined a nickname for me: “Ma man.”)
If it weren’t for First Tee, I would have missed out on my best life memories. With my coach’s encouragement, I applied for the national First Tee opportunity to play at Pebble Beach Golf Links as an eighth grader.
First Tee also arranged for me to meet Jack Nicklaus – my role model ever since I wrote my fourth-grade book report on him.
I have been amazed by the unwavering support I’ve received from First Tee over the years. When the Ohio High School Athletic Association initially rejected my waiver request to play at the PURE Insurance Championship, my executive director advocated for me at the hearing. She also answered my questions for my 4-H research project and served as one of my college application recommenders. All of my First Tee coaches have been my greatest cheerleaders.
Role models like them have inspired me to give back and help promote the game of golf. I volunteered as a golf coach for three First Tee summer camps and one winter session. Last summer I convinced my high school golf team co-captains to co-host “Pay It Forward” golf clinics to raise money to fund students to attend First Tee summer camps. This spring I posted my golf drill tips on social media as a virtual fundraiser.
I’m grateful to the First Tee for nurturing me over the years and will continue to support it long after I graduate high school.
About First Tee College Scholarship Program
At First Tee, we believe that helping young people build strength of character is fundamental to success in life. Our active learning experiences are all about ensuring young people build inner strength, self-confidence and resilience, so when they face new challenges they are equipped to overcome them.
Going beyond our core programs, the enhanced First Tee College Scholarship Program is designed to provide further support, life skill development and mentorship of our alumni through their journey. Higher education continues to be a critical factor in unlocking opportunities for young people to thrive, and First Tee is committed to their success.
First Tee College Scholarship Program supports selected alumni throughout their college career. The need and merit-based program provides scholarships up to $5,000 per year, renewable for up to four years of college admission. The program also provides professional development workshops, access to internships and full-time employment placement post-graduation. One of the key factors of the program is pairing Scholars with a dedicated adult mentor who will help encourage and guide them throughout the four years.
The program is open to graduating high school seniors planning to attend college the following year. Applicants must be active members of First Tee chapters and will be considered based on financial need, academic performance, chapter involvement, volunteerism and other criteria.
The national “Drive Your Future” event, held in San Francisco October 5-9, reinforces the organization’s commitment to empowering girls
San Francisco – (October 2, 2023) – Twenty-four girls, ages 14-18, from First Tee chapters across the country are attending First Tee Drive Your Future Academy presented by John Deere in San Francisco, October 5-9. The all-female professional development academy focuses on empowering the girls to leverage opportunities available through their participation in golf and First Tee and recognize the importance of building a strong network.
Throughout the weeklong academy, the girls will participate in interactive workshops, lead a volunteer experience, and hear from keynote speakers designed to inspire and help them as they plan for the future. Speakers, each who represent careers in STEM, include Susan Crickenberger, People & Operations at John Deere, Michelle Meyer, Managing Director of Supply Chain, Distribution & Logistics at CapTech, and First Tee alumnae Angelica Harris and Taryn Yee.
The event will be hosted at historic Lake Merced Golf Club where participants will build upon their connections and hear different perspectives from peers from around the country. Additionally, the group will have the opportunity to bond over inspiring and impactful experiences around the San Francisco area.
The event reinforces First Tee’s commitment to empowering girls through its programs, which are offered through 150 chapters in 1400 golf course locations. More than 80% of chapters offer dedicated programming for girls, intentionally inviting and engaging them in a variety of opportunities. Girls who stay in First Tee programs have the opportunity to apply for all national events, including Drive Your Future.
“At John Deere, we run so life can leap forward,” said John Watson, project development manager, John Deere. “That includes partnering with organizations like First Tee to provide life-changing opportunities for today’s youth. It is an honor to continue the successful tradition of the Drive Your Future Academy and we are thrilled to support First Tee in developing the leaders of tomorrow.”
The teens were selected for the Drive Your Future Academy through a national application process based on essays, letters of recommendation, and involvement in First Tee and other activities.
“First Tee’s Drive Your Future Academy focuses on female empowerment and focuses on the leadership development of our young women,” said Jennifer Weiler, senior vice president of network relations at First Tee. “We are so grateful for John Deere’s support of this event and together, we are committed to building game changers.”
John Deere is a Trustee of First Tee and has supported the organization since 2012.
First Tee is a youth development organization celebrating over 25 years of teaching life skills and helping kids and teens build their strength of character through golf. The First Tee Drive Your Future Academy made possible by John Deere 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.
I am currently in my last semester of my undergraduate studies at North Carolina State University double majoring in Business Administration concentrating in Marketing and Foreign Languages and Literature concentrating in Mandarin.
I was a Tournament Services Management intern for the 2022 Presidents Cup held at Quail Hollow Club. In 2023, I attended the Middlebury College Language School participating in an intensive language immersion program adhering to the Language Pledge, with emphasis on Chinese literature and culture.
I hope to one day use my language proficiency to promote collaboration between the US and China while encouraging strategic stakeholder relationships and analyzing emerging markets.
2. How had First Tee positively impacted your life?
First Tee offered a space for me to find community and mentorship. Because of First Tee, I have developed the confidence to trust my ability in navigating life.
I have been encouraged to set goals and work towards them, always knowing I could turn to my mentors for guidance. One of these goals was to become the first participant of the First Tee of Greater Charlotte chapter to become ACE Certified. I have had the opportunity to travel to many incredible places across the US and meet wonderful people across different First Tee chapters.
I played in the 2018 Pure Insurance Championship and attended many life skills and golf development academies.
3. What advice would you share to participants in the program now?
Embrace every opportunity big or small.
Picking between my favorite memories at First Tee is impossible because walking down the fairways of immaculate and acclaimed courses around the world holds just as much weight as those walking down the fairway of Dr. Charles L. Sifford with the friends I made in my chapter. I would also say to give back to your chapter and community as much as you can. Volunteering within your chapter and neighboring chapters is a valuable experience that helps develop leadership and organizational skills. You only have so much time in your life to be a part of First Tee as a participant, make sure to embrace the connections that will last beyond that time. To this day I go to my mentors for guidance and advice as it remains helpful as life goes on
Karla Garcia was born on March 11, 2002, in Parral, Chihuahua, Mexico.
She moved to Novillero, Nayarit at the age of 4, where she spent almost eight years with her maternal grandparents. She worked in her grandparents’ vegetable field during those years, planting, picking and selling vegetables. Karla and her older sister immigrated to the Coachella Valley in 2013 where their mother and stepfather lived.
Karla’s stepfather enrolled her in the First Tee in the summer of 2013 when she was 11. It was there that she learned how to play golf for the first time. Karla didn’t speak English and couldn’t understand a word the coaches said to her but she enjoyed striking a small ball with a club.
Karla started working as a lead instructor with the First Tee in 2021, and she enjoys passing on her knowledge to other young children. Karla has recently accepted the position as outreach coordinator, and she is extremely excited to be able to work and grow with First Tee.
Karla is also a student at the College of the Desert where she is pursuing a degree in golf management. Karla intends to continue working with First Tee in order to make a positive impact on the lives of children.
PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. (Sept. 24, 2023) – After a week of competition and mentorship, Alyssa Stewart and Brayden Casolari are the junior winners of the 2023 PURE Insurance Championship impacting First Tee, an official PGA TOUR Champions event, which concluded Sunday at Pebble Beach.
Alyssa Stewart representing First Tee – Greater Dallas and paired with Justin Leonard, and Brayden Casolari representing First Tee – Pine Mountain and paired with Brian Gay, claimed the female and male Pro-Junior titles, respectively. Stewart and Leonard finished 28-under, while Casolari and Gay capped off the event 21-under, climbing three spots up the leaderboard Sunday to clinch the victory.
Stewart and Leonard took the lead Saturday after recording a 59 at Spyglass Hill and extended their advantage Sunday, shooting a 63 at Pebble Beach. Meanwhile, Casolari and Gay birdied 18 on Sunday to secure their come-from-behind victory in the Pro-Junior competition, shooting an 8-under 64 at Pebble Beach.
In its 20th year, the PURE Insurance Championship brings First Tee participants from chapters across the country to Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill Golf Course, where they demonstrate the skills and values they’ve practiced at First Tee to play alongside PGA TOUR Champions players and amateurs from the business world. The annual event was televised internationally on Golf Channel.
“The 80 players in the junior field represented First Tee well this week,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “Our program aims to instill confidence and perseverance in the young people it serves, and I think those traits were on display during the tournament. A special congratulations to Alyssa and Brayden for winning the Pro-Junior titles. Thank you to our partners – PURE Insurance, PGA TOUR Champions, Chevron, Monterey Peninsula Foundation and Golf Channel – for making this week an unforgettable experience for our participants.”
Stewart is a 17-year-old high school senior who is committed to play golf next year at Houston Christian University. With a +3.9 handicap, Stewart has set records at two courses in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. She aspires to play on the LPGA Tour and become a veterinarian.
“I feel amazing right now,” Stewart said after her victory. “Words can’t even describe it. I just have a lot of thanks for my mom, PURE Insurance, First Tee and the PGA TOUR Champions players. Something that I learned this week is that you can’t really dwell on one shot. You have to move forward.”
Casolari is a 15-year-old high school sophomore from Cumberland, Kentucky. He took up golf 8 years ago at Lynch Country Club in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky after borrowing a set of left-handed clubs. Casolari volunteers with the Empty Stocking Fund and Tri-City Little League. He aspires to play collegiate golf and works at a local course. His trip to the PURE Insurance Championship was his first time traveling by airplane.
“This has been a great experience,” said Casolari. “This is my first time out there, and I love this course. My pro and I hit some good shots out there.”
During the week, First Tee partners PURE Insurance and Chevron both celebrated their commitment to First Tee’s mission and raised additional funds to support the First Tee College Scholarship Program through special events. Leaders from PURE Insurance extended a surprise invitation to the scholarship program to 17-year-old Aditi Balakrishna, a high school senior from First Tee – Tri-Valley in Northern California. The program pairs Scholars with a mentor and provides professional development workshops and financial assistance throughout the college experience.
First Tee is a youth development organization that teaches life skills and helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf. The PURE Insurance Championship 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.
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 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach millions of kids annually through its network of 150 chapters, 11,000 schools and 1,900 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 Monterey Peninsula Foundation
Surpassing $200 million in total donations, Monterey Peninsula Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization that donates funds from the proceeds of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am on the PGA TOUR and the PURE Insurance Championship Impacting First Tee at Pebble Beach, a PGA TOUR Champions tournament. The Foundation focuses on improving the quality of life in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito Counties.
Privilege Underwriters Reciprocal Exchange (PURE) Insurance is a property and casualty insurance company designed exclusively for successful, responsible families. We opened for business more than 15 years ago with the goal of offering something different in the insurance space: a company focused on doing what’s right for our membership (policyholders), one that promotes transparency and alignment of interests, and delivers greater value. Today, after growing at least 15% in each year since we began, we are the most awarded insurer in our category, offer coverage in all 50 states that includes high value homeowners, automobile, collections, watercraft, personal excess liability, fraud & cyber and flood to a membership of more than 100,000 individuals and families.
Pureinsurance.com | 888.813.7873
About PGA TOUR Champions
PGA TOUR Champions is a membership organization of professional golfers age 50 and older, including 34 members of the World Golf Hall of Fame. The Tour’s mission is to provide financial opportunities for its players, entertain and inspire its fans, deliver substantial value to its partners, create outlets for volunteers to give back and generate significant charitable and economic impact in tournament communities. Follow PGA TOUR Champions online at PGATOUR.com, at facebook.com/PGATOURChampions, on Twitter @ChampionsTour and on Instagram @pgatourchampions.
All events are televised in the United States, with most receiving complete coverage on Golf Channel, the exclusive cable-television partner of PGA TOUR Champions. Tournament programming is available via 25+ TV linear partners in 145+ countries and territories, with 25 channels carrying long-form and/or highlights coverage, and 200+ hours of live coverage distributed in 135+ countries and territories. Programming is also available via the OTT platform GOLFTV powered by PGA TOUR in every market outside of the United States, excluding China and Korea, with live coverage distributed in 130+ countries and territories.
PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. (Sept. 22, 2023) – PURE Insurance continued its ongoing support of the First Tee College Scholarship Program Thursday during the PURE Insurance Championship impacting First Tee by surprising First Tee – Tri-Valley’s Aditi Balakrishna with an invitation to the program based on her academic record and commitment to helping others.
Balakrishna, who is participating in this week’s PGA TOUR Champions event at Pebble Beach, is a 17-year-old senior at Foothill High School in Pleasanton, California, where she is vice president of the Society of Women Engineers and president of the Neurodiversity Club. Balakrishna founded HappyArt, an organization that creates cards for Bay Area seniors, and she volunteers with First Tee – Tri-Valley and Special Olympics.
Launched in 2020, the First Tee College Scholarship Program currently serves 70 First Tee Scholars selected into the program based on their academic performance, involvement in First Tee programs, financial need and commitment to volunteerism.
PURE Insurance has served as title sponsor of the PURE Insurance Championship Impacting First Tee since 2017. Since coming on board as title sponsor, PURE has continued to deepen its relationship with First Tee, including a commitment of $1M over five years to support the First Tee College Scholarship Program.
“I’m so proud to continue our involvement with, and support of, this incredible organization,” said Martin Leitch, CEO of PURE Insurance. “It’s particularly gratifying to know that we can impact the remarkable young men and women of First Tee, like Aditi, in such a powerful way.”
First Tee is a youth development organization that uses golf to teach life skills and values. The First Tee College Scholarship Program extends its impact to alumni by providing support throughout their post-graduate career with Scholars receiving mentorship, professional and personal development workshops and financial support. Select PURE Insurance associates will serve as mentors and the company will contribute to educational sessions, helping share industry knowledge and expertise with scholars who are interested in business and finance.
“Congratulations to Aditi for all her accomplishments in the classroom, on the golf course and in her community,” said Greg McLaughlin, First Tee CEO. “Thank you to PURE Insurance for its ongoing support of First Tee. By supporting the PURE Insurance Championship and the First Tee College Scholarship Program, PURE Insurance is supporting our efforts to empower youth and prepare them for the future. ”
First Tee College Scholarship Program is made possible by donors and corporate partners, like PURE Insurance, that stand behind the program and First Tee’s mission.
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 1997, First Tee has expanded to reach millions of kids annually through its network of 150 chapters, 11,000 schools and 1,900 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 PURE Insurance
Privilege Underwriters Reciprocal Exchange (PURE) is dedicated to creating an exceptional experience for responsible high net worth families, providing customizable coverage for high-value homes, automobiles, jewelry, art, personal liability, watercraft, flood, fraud and cyber fraud. PURE’s low cost of capital, careful member selection and proactive risk management contribute to fair pricing and a Financial Strength Rating of “A (Excellent)” from A.M. Best Company, Inc. PURE has sustained at least 15% annual growth in each year since its inception and now serves more than 100,000 members across the United States.
A mantra I live by is when one door closes, it’s because it wasn’t meant for me. When I am redirected, I’m reminded that this is where I’m supposed to be. At 13, if you would have told me I would be playing golf I wouldn’t have believed it. Luckily enough, I was unknowingly signed up for the after-school program at my school by my dad. At first, my reaction was negative, and I told him, “Golf? Only old people play golf! I don’t want to go!” Nonetheless, I went because my dad told me to go and try it for at least two weeks. The classes were only once a week and were located at a small 9-hole course near the school. So, the first day of classes I get on the bus to go to the course and was greeted by Coach Katie and Coach Ron. I remember being shy and nervous about playing since I was one of the few girls in the session. Despite being shy I recall the coaches being welcoming and kind to me.
After the first day, I had changed my mind and wanted to keep coming back to First Tee. My mom kept taking me because one, I enjoyed playing and two, she knew it would help me in the future. Once I was consistent with the after-school class, I started attending Saturday sessions with the program at another nearby course. Here I met different coaches and other participants of the program. Sadly, the course I first started playing at was shut down and I moved to the newer course indefinitely. At the same time, I was also donated my first set of brand new golf clubs from the program because I didn’t have a set of my own. Being left-handed, the courses I played at had far and few between left-handed women golf clubs.
As the years went on, I had gone to several different courses with the program because the sessions would end with those courses. Along the way I met several coaches and other participants in the program. Come to think of it, I think I kept coming back because of the positive atmosphere when it came to learning and growing as a player in golf. Not only that, but I appreciated the kindness every participant had shown me despite being such a reserved person. By moving around different courses I also learned how to make friends which helped me learn how to blossom in new environments.
I mention a positive atmosphere because of one of my earliest memories in the program. I was being taught by Coach Ron and he had told me I had potential to grow as a player, and in that moment that was the first time I was ever told that by a mentor. The memory of that moment is so vivid that I remember I was learning how to putt on the practice green at an old course that no longer exists. Ten years later and I still hold onto that memory to this day, because it made me realize it’s important to instill positivity into mentees and that words have impact. From then on, I learned that having a good mentor, coach, or leader is much more powerful than I had even realized. Eventually, once I graduated high school, I had started my first job with the First Tee. I was a junior coach at a course by my house and this was my first experience with being a mentor for children in the program. I’m grateful for this because it showed me that I enjoy teaching children and like to find different ways to help them understand what they are learning. Today, I’ve been put into positions where I teach my peers and even my superiors.
The same year I graduated high school was the first year I applied for the First Tee – Greater Dallas Scholarship. I didn’t fully understand the importance of the scholarship because I am a first-generation college student within my family. I took it for granted and didn’t realize how much of a privilege it was to even receive the reward from my chapter. All I knew was that it was something I had to do, because it would help me pay for college. Once I received the award the first time, it hit me that this was something serious and shouldn’t be taken for granted. So, every year moving forward I made sure I turned everything in on time and got all my recommendations from mentors and professors I had over the years.
When I first started attending Tarleton State University, I had changed my major from nursing to environmental engineering after my first year. After my first semester, I made the dean’s list for perfect grades. As for the reason I switched from nursing to environmental engineering, I truthfully wanted to change the narrative that there aren’t many Latinas in STEM, and I wanted a different challenge that involved being outside because I love nature.
In my second year, the first semester I was the president of a Latina-founded sorority and in several other clubs. Yet, in the spring semester, the COVID-19 pandemic had begun and most of my classes had gone virtual. At this point, none of the clubs were active and I was no longer president. That following fall, all my classes were online, and I failed every single class. With classes being online, I felt as though I didn’t have the self-discipline that I have now that would’ve allowed me to pass those courses – let alone taking math or engineering courses online. I am a student who must be in the classroom to learn efficiently. Failing an entire semester was the lowest point in my college career. Although slowly but surely, with each following semester I finally got to a point where I didn’t fail any classes.
Due to failing that entire semester, my graduation had been pushed back further than I expected. So, I retook all the classes I had failed and had the best semester of my college career in the fall of 2022. The highlight of one of my hardest classes was making a 100 on a midterm for water resources. I mention this because two years prior I would’ve never imagined myself scoring that high in an engineering course. Thankfully, throughout my time in engineering courses, I had made friends who all wanted each other to succeed. I’m more than grateful for the group of friends I made in the engineering program because it was such a positive environment. We all wanted each other to grow in school and in the real world. Honestly, if it wasn’t for my group of friends I made, I wouldn’t have gotten through the engineering program as smoothly. Not to mention, the two professors in the program that taught me throughout my degree. Both have seen me grow as a student and person, as well as seen me fail and succeed. Anytime I had a question they were there for me and always uplifted me when I didn’t feel accomplished.
While in college I had several internships, and my first internship was in a lab on campus. Here, I learned how to test water for bacteria from wells in the nearby area. After this, I got my first engineering internship in Brownwood for the Texas Department of Transportation where I learned how to make maps for the state using a program called ArcGIS Pro. From my time in Brownwood, the next year I decided to intern again through TxDOT but in the Galveston office. In Galveston, I learned how to design projects that would be put out within the next couple years. It was even more interesting because I was working on a project that involved the road I drove on to go to work every day. I say that it’s interesting because I felt like I was working towards something that would impact the community I lived in, in a positive way.
Currently, my adult aspirations include graduating with my bachelor’s in environmental engineering and receiving my licensure to become a professional civil engineer in environmental and water resources. Being a First Tee participant has helped me complete my bachelors by providing the opportunity to receive the First Tee Scholarship of the Greater Dallas chapter. Along with the tools to make long-lasting connections and being able to persevere despite hardship. Playing golf at a young age taught me patience early in my life and that good things truly take time when it comes to my goals and aspirations. I’ve had many mentors in my life and have even come to a point where I’ve become a mentor to people in my life. I know I’m only just starting when it comes to my career, and I can’t wait to see what else is in store for me. I enjoy being in a state of constant growth because that means I’m where I’m supposed to be.
