USGA Awards Grant to First Tee — Central Mississippi

for Local Youth Development Programs

 

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

Flowood, Miss. (August 24, 2020) – The United States Golf Association (USGA) has awarded a $2,500 grant to First Tee — Central Mississippi 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 — Central Mississippi reaches more than 7,500 young people annually at 7 program locations, with support from 52 volunteers. First Tee — Central Mississippi impacts young people through character education and life skills programs at in-school and after-school programs. “Our chapter is very excited about our grant from the USGA,” said Margo Coleman, executive director, First Tee – Central Mississippi. “As a former executive director of an AGA and volunteer for the USGA, I know firsthand the great work both that the USGA and AGAs do to provide a positive impact in our community. I look forward to growing our partnership with the Mississippi Golf Association to empower youth in Mississippi.” 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 — Central Mississippi, visit firstteecentralmississippi.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 — Central Mississippi The First Tee — Central Mississippi is a 501c3 nonprofit organization in Jackson, Mississippi. The First Tee —Central Mississippi offers programs to youth in the tri county area, Hinds, Madison and Rankin counties. Our programs are open to boys and girls ages 5-18 and offer them an opportunity to learn life lessons through the game of golf. The First Tee provides a structured life skills curriculum to teach character education, personal and social responsibility, and golf instruction.