USGA Awards Grant To First Tee – West Michigan

USGA Awards Grant to First Tee — West Michigan for Local Youth Development Programs

USGA grant is part of a nationwide initiative to provide greater access to golf for youth

Grand Rapids, MI (August 21, 2020) – The United States Golf Association (USGA) has awarded a $2,500 grant to First Tee — West Michigan to further their efforts of introducing young people to game of golf and experiences that empower them to build their strength of character. The grant is one of 51 being awarded nationwide to chapters located in or around USGA Championships and Allied Golf Associations as part of the organization’s strategy to leave a positive impact on its local host communities. Since 1997, the USGA has invested more than $26 million in grants to First Tee to provide greater access to golf for juniors and cultivate a life-long passion for the game. The commitment to expanding participation is part of the USGA’s mission to champion and advance the game.

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

First Tee brings kids and teens to the game of golf and leverages it as a catalyst for personal growth through experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience. With USGA’s support, First Tee — West Michigan reaches more than 1200+ young people annually at 15 program locations, with support from 250+ volunteers. First Tee — West Michigan impacts young people through character education and life skills programs at in-school and after-school programs.

Tyler Smies, Executive Director of First Tee – West Michigan said, “We are thrilled to have the support of the USGA in West Michigan. The USGA’s support shows that they understand the value of what First Tee teaches young people – both on and off the golf course.”

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

For more information about the First Tee — West Michigan, visit https://www.firstteewestmichigan.org/. Visit firsttee.org to see the full list of USGA grant recipients.

About the USGA The USGA is a nonprofit organization that celebrates, serves and advances the game of golf. Founded in 1894, we conduct many of golf’s premier professional and amateur championships, including the U.S. Open and U.S. Women’s Open. With The R&A, we govern the sport via a global set of playing, equipment, handicapping and amateur status rules. The USGA campus in Liberty Corner, New Jersey, is home to the Association’s Research and Test Center, where science and innovation are fueling a healthy and sustainable game for the future. The campus is also home to the USGA Golf Museum, where we honor the game by curating the world’s most comprehensive archive of golf artifacts. To learn more, visit usga.org. About First Tee — West Michigan Our Mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf. ________________________________________ USGA Media Contact Danny Vohden USGA Communications 908-326-1217 [email protected] USGA 77 Liberty Corner Road Liberty Corner, NJ 07938 United States mediacenter.usga.org First Tee Media Contact Sara Henika First Tee 904-881-7398 [email protected]