Who We Are
First Tee – Greater Akron is one of 150 First Tee chapters across the U.S. and select international locations. First Tee is a youth development organization that uses the game of golf to teach kids/teens life skills. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, we create active learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence and resilience that kids can carry to everything they do. Our work at First Tee is not about improving your golf score… it’s about strengthening what you bring to everything you do, including golf!
We believe every kid deserves the chance to build inner strength before the world demands it, to find the joy that comes with feeling confident in their own skin before the world makes it feel impossible, and to access experiences and spaces where personal growth happens. We exist to enable kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges.
Kids become a better version of themselves when they have the space to be who they are, surrounded by passionate people who guide them to see what they are capable of. In Summit County we build these opportunities and experiences through 6 program locations (Mud Run, BigShots Golf Firestone, Brookledge, Raintree, Lake Anna YMCA and Riverfront YMCA), 62 school program partners (30 of which are APS) and community partnerships (Akron Community Centers, Tiretown Golf Club, Akron Urban League and many more).
As an organization, we reached over 18,000 kids/teens in 2023!
Our Mission:
To impact the lives of kids in Greater Akron by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf.
Our Purpose:
To enable kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:
First Tee – Greater Akron is committed to embracing and representing the diversity of our community.
Diversity contributes to our innovation and success.
Our Chapter strives to be diverse, equitable and inclusive.
We value and respect that every person brings a unique perspective and experience.
First Tee – Greater Akron is committed to leveraging our unique Life Skills Education to empower all involved, creating positive change within our community.
