Causes: Golf, Sports

Mission: 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

Programs: Golf provides at-risk children a positive alternative to alcohol and drug use as described by the irs guidelines noted above, which validates sports programs. Golf with its values based etiquette, is unique in that it incorporates such attributes as honor, conduct and character into the sport. At the children's course/the first tee of greater portland we help youth, particularly underprivileged, at-risk, low-to-moderate income, and special needs youth build life and golf skills while forging trusting relationships, and providing a safe space to be active outdoors while learning the game of golf. We use the the first tee life skills curriculum of the nine healthy habits (energy, play, safety, vision, mind, family, friends, school, and community), and the nine core values (honesty, integrity, perseverance, sportsmanship, judgment, respect, responsibility, courtesy, and confidence). Through this program we combine golf lessons with a curriculum using best practices in life skills instruction. This combination not only promotes physical fitness and health, but will also teaches self-discipline, responsibility, goal setting, conflict resolution, and how to build positive relationships that will help them prepare for success in life. We provide in-school, and after school programs as well as summer camps and clinics. We provide transportation, course equipment, course access, healthy snacks, and caring adults for under-served children. We offer scholarships for children to participate which will allows us to provide access to families who might not otherwise be able to engage their children in sporting activities and the inherent values found in the game of golf. The children's course hosts regular golf sessions for several children's organizations and schools including: oregon city schools, rigler elementary, leisure hour junior golf club, special olympics, the hacienda community development corporation and the washington state school for the blind. We offer young people access to a safe place with caring adult mentors who provide an experience that helps them grow socially, academically and physically.