Financial assistance from donors sustains the First Green program

Lawrence, Kan. (Aug. 23, 2022) ­– Thanks to recent donations from John Deere Golf, Palm Beach GCSA, Wadsworth Golf Charities Foundation and the Washington Golf Association, the GCSAA Foundation continues to be positioned to support First Green with grants that are vital to the program’s growth and longevity.

“These generous grants impact GCSAA’s ability to help grow the First Green program, engaging K-12 students in a unique way where they can apply their classroom knowledge in a golf course setting,” GCSAA Foundation Executive Director Ryan Flickinger stated. “Without the support from our industry partners, the First Green program would be limited in scope, reducing our impact on students across the country.”

First Green remains a recognized premier volunteer-facilitated community outreach and student development program. The STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) teachings are uniquely impactful, and they provide an outdoor, hands-on experience to students who may never have stepped foot on a golf course or considered a career in golf course management.

GCSAA has facilitated 33 field trips through July of this year, hosting more than 1,400 students in 18 states. Staff has scheduled an additional four outings this summer/fall, but activity is anticipated to increase once school is back in session.

As part of the five-year plan, the GCSAA Foundation seeks to provide funding for a total of 1,761 field trips through 2026 that will benefit more than 100,000 students. Additional support is required to aid in expanding the program with continued volunteer outreach and training, enhancement of curriculum, and teaching engagement, providing them with the resources required to participate in the program and support their students.

GCSAA is grateful for the tremendous support this program receives, but additional volunteers and host course facilities for field trips are still in need for 2022 and beyond. If you are interested in supporting First Green, please consider serving as a volunteer and contributing so that more students can benefit from the program.