NEWS - Non-Profit Organizations

SBJ Staff Report

Jan 3, 2012 – According to Barbara Essig, executive director of First Tee of Savannah, 2011 will go down as one of the most transformational years in The First Tee of Savannah’s eight year history. 

“This year we launched The First Tee National School Program (NSP) at East Broad Street K-8 School and Bartow Elementary which provides elementary schools with a complete golf program, appropriate for today’s physical education students and teachers. 

The First Tee National School Program curriculum centers on four primary areas:  1) lifelong activity, 2) character education, personal and social responsibility, 3) motor skills, and 4) developmental approach to learning.

“One of our goals in 2012 is to implement the NSP in three additional Savannah Chatham County Schools with the help from benevolent supporters. Since the global economic downturn in 2008, The First Tee of Savannah has faced significant financial challenges, explains Essig. “We saw a decline in the income generated by local and national founders which supports our operating budget. Sustainability for the Chapter was made possible through community partners, supporters, foundations contributions, grants, and individual donors. Scholarship funds were established in recognition of individuals whose legacy will be remembered through scholarships for children who otherwise would not have access to learn the game of golf.”   

In 2011, the groups board of directors “spent a lot of time reflecting on our past, celebrating where we are today, and looking forward to the future.  We developed a Strategic Plan for 2012-2015 that is customer driven,” she outlines.  “Our customer’s needs have changed and we’ve had to change in order to survive and flourish.  Beginning 2012, we will institute on-line registration; utilize technology and social media to market our services and to increase enrollment.”

“What’s remained the same are the Nine Core Values upon which The First Tee was founded.  We will continue to provide quality customer service while teaching life skills and healthy habits using golf to help make character count.  We will also continue to acknowledge the participants’ academic achievements and graduation from high school,” she adds.

The First Tee of Savannah enrolled over 400 youth in its Life Skills Experience Program and reached out to over 1500 children in 2011. The program also offers free enrollment for all active duty military and reservists’ families through the Department of Defense Military Affiliate Program. 

The LPGA*USGA Girls Golf Program is also available for girls 5-15, teaching leadership skills and building self-esteem one stroke at a time. 

In 2012, First Tee plans to expand upon the Healthy Greens Summer Camp, Mentoring Program and After-School Tutoring in partnership with colleges and local golf associations.  “Most importantly, we will provide services to any child who wishes to join regardless of physical or economic challenges,” Essig emphasizes.