First Tee Program Coming to Northern Michigan

The First Tee of Boyne Highlands in Harbor Springs, Mich., has been formed and is now recognized as one of almost 200 First Tee chapters in five countries. Operating as a non-profit corporation, a board of directors has been established, corporate officers have been named and a search for an executive director is underway.

If all goes well, the First Tee of Boyne Highlands will be fully operational by spring 2006. Work is underway to obtain grants through the national organizations such as the United States Golf Association (USGA), as well as regional foundations.

"The First Tee exposes children to the nine core values of life that will help make them the leaders of tomorrow," said Currie Weed, president of the new chapter. "We have visited numerous chapters around the country and are excited to bring this training to the kids of this area."

The World Golf Foundation created The First Tee in 1997 and is recognized today as one of the premier youth character-education programs in the country. Based upon nine core values, the program's objective is teaching life skills through the game of golf. From this experience, children ages 7 through 17 can take away a greater understanding and importance of integrity, perseverance and respect and the know-how to play golf for a lifetime.

The mission of The First Tee of Boyne Highlands is: "To impact the lives of young people in the upper portion of Michigan by providing learning facilities and educational programs that promote character development and life enhancing values through the game of golf."

Boyne Highlands Resort in Harbor Springs will provide space for the new First Tee facility, and the resort is partnering with a group of local residents and Country Club of Boyne members to make this vision a reality.

The First Tee of Boyne Highlands is seeking applicants for the position of Executive Director. For more information and to submit resumes, write to The First Tee of Boyne Highlands, Box 613, Harbor Springs, Michigan 49740. For more information on The First Tee, visit www.thefirsttee.org.