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Golf is not just a game, but a way of life at First Tee - Greater Topeka. Through a one-of-a-kind mentorship program, Executive Director Marcus Miller and his team use golf to teach area kids the valuable life lessons of respect, self-confidence and perseverance.
“We are a youth development organization that enables kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges,” said Miller. “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 with them into adulthood.”
Through their partnerships with Topeka’s GreatLife Golf & Fitness, 8-Iron Therapy and Firekeeper Golf Course, local kids have greater access to programming when travel becomes a burden.
First Tee – Greater Topeka received its chapter license in the summer of 2021. Despite being a relatively new organization, so far this year, they have been able to teach 63 children throughout the Shawnee and Jackson County. The program is geared toward ages seven through 18 and will eventually add a curriculum for toddlers, ages three to five. The spring, summer and fall sessions last six weeks with the winter session lasting approximately four to five weeks, depending on scheduling.
Capitol Federal Foundation® is a proud sponsor of First Tee – Greater Topeka. “We love our partnership with Capitol Federal Foundation,” said Miller. “Their tradition of strengthening communities for future generations is near and dear to our efforts in building game changers. Without their support, it would be difficult for us to make an impact in Shawnee and Jackson counties.”
“At First Tee, we are part of a growing and evolving network that is committed to ensuring we meet the changing needs of kids and families today,” said Miller. “We do not turn anyone away for the inability to pay. Our community of supporters have been instrumental in the positive impact we’ve had on young people, but the changing world is demanding more from our kids, and therefore more from us.”
First Tee – Greater Topeka relies on word of mouth, social media and community events to get kids enrolled in their program. The coaches and participants help in giving first-hand accounts of what the program teaches and how it has helped prepare them. Parents can call First Tee directly at (785) 730-2220 to get their kid(s) signed up to learn, and scholarships are available.
There are more than 150 chapters across the nation, including six international locations for The First Tee network. First Tee - Greater Topeka is the 5th chapter in Kansas, along with Salina, Manhattan, Wichita and Kansas City.
If you would like to learn more about First Tee – Greater Topeka, visit them at https://firstteetopeka.org/.
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