Building Character Through Youth Golf
Using Golf to Shape Future Leaders: How First Tee Instills Life Skills and Confidence in Youth
If you played sports growing up, you’ve likely learned a lesson or two—whether it was running faster, building friendships, or bouncing back from mistakes (because let’s face it, we all make them). Chances are, you’re still applying those lessons in your everyday life today, often without even realizing it. It's those small teachable moments on the field, in the huddle, or at the gym that often evolve into life lessons, shaping us far beyond the boundaries of any game.
These experiences mold us into who we are, teaching essential skills like teamwork and goal setting. And it’s precisely these qualities that we hope to instill in today’s youth, who represent the future of our communities. That’s why Dormie Network Foundation is proud to partner with First Tee, an organization dedicated to empowering young people through the game of golf. Together, we’re working to provide opportunities beyond the green, inspiring young players to excel both on the course and in life.
Who is First Tee
First Tee is an organization committed to helping kids build the strength of character necessary to navigate the ups and downs in life. Through golf, First Tee provides an invaluable platform for young people to develop life skills, resilience, and self-confidence—skills that prove valuable in every aspect and at every stage of life.
For children and teens, ages 7 to 18, First Tee offers group golf lessons and programs for all backgrounds and skill levels. Participants receive the necessary equipment, while scholarships and reduced-fee programming are available to ensure no child is turned away due to financial constraints. With over 150 chapters worldwide, First Tee creates a safe and supportive environment where young people can learn and thrive.
First Tee Golfers
Dormie Network Foundation’s Role
In 2024, Dormie Network Foundation partnered with 46 unique First Tee chapters. Through each partnership, First Tee has seen remarkable success in helping raise critical funds to support its mission. First Tee – Florida Gold Coast (FT-FGC) and First Tee - Hampton Roads are just two examples of chapters that benefited greatly from the partnership in 2024. It has been a game-changer for fundraising efforts, Carl Mistretta, FT-FGC Executive Director, shared.
“Dormie Network Foundation provides an incredible opportunity to help our nonprofit organization raise additional funds through enhanced sponsorships. We have enjoyed success with new individual and corporate partners with new sponsorships that include a Dormie Network annual membership. We have included Dormie Network membership in sponsorship offerings for tournaments, events, and corporate partnerships.”
- Carl Mistretta
First Tee Palm Beaches Tournament Champions
First Tee Treasure Coast Tournament Champions
Teeing Up a Bright Future for Youth
FT-FGC has program locations in southeastern Florida, including Palm Beaches, Treasure Coast, and Broward. Each year, they serve over 4,000 students through First Tee programs, including many children with special needs. With more than 40 trained and active coaches, FT-FGC is committed to providing high-quality instruction. Having partnered with Dormie Network Foundation for about a year, they have made impressive strides in fundraising. In 2024, they worked with Howie Hutchinson, Dormie Network Foundation Director of Philanthropy, to raise $102,500 through donated Dormie Network memberships. By leveraging a one-page ad and direct communication with sponsors and donors ahead of golf events, the partnership helped them increase their fundraising by $40,000—and the momentum continues to grow.
FT-FGC programming with students of Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Police Athletic League (PAL).
FT-FGC has used the additional funds raised to advance its mission and expand its impact. “We offer many programs to our community outreach partners that serve our underrepresented communities,” said Mistretta. “Examples include Boys & Girls Clubs and Police Athletic Leagues. The additional funds we have raised with Dormie Network memberships have allowed us to grow these programs and the number of students impacted. We also grew our college scholarship fund from $37,500 to $87,000 in part because of the newfound revenue.”
First Tee Hampton Roads, located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is another standout chapter within the First Tee network. As one of only nine multi-purpose chapters, it features two program locations designed to offer a comprehensive golf and life skills experience. The primary 55-acre Virginia Beach facility boasts a nine-hole walking executive course, a driving range, an enhanced putting green, a short-game practice area, and a learning center/clubhouse. In addition, classes and special programs are hosted at locations in Suffolk at Cedar Point Club, Portsmouth at Bide-A-Wee Golf Course, and in Moyock at The Golf Club at Eagle Creek.
At First Tee Hampton Roads, they believe that experiences are the greatest teachers. Their programs are designed to be both fun and meaningful, encouraging kids to embrace growth, learn from failure, and build confidence for whatever challenges lie ahead. Through golf-based personal growth programs, young participants gain valuable life and leadership skills that empower them in school, friendships, and ultimately, their future careers.
First Tee Hampton Roads volunteer coach and participant.
Having partnered with Dormie Network Foundation for about a year, First Tee Hampton Roads has seen the tangible impact of this collaboration. In 2024, they raised $35,000 from having a Dormie Network membership in their event auction. They utilized a combination of a one-page ad and auction marketing materials, working closely with Audrey, Dormie Network Foundation’s Philanthropy Manager, to exceed their fundraising goals.
Why Partner with Dormie Network Foundation
First Tee chapters across the country are seeing firsthand the benefits of partnering with Dormie Network Foundation, both in terms of fundraising and community impact.
“Offering sponsorships that include a Dormie Network membership, offers a unique opportunity for individuals and corporations to support your nonprofit,” said Mistretta. “It is not a one-time item or trip, but a membership that can be enjoyed many times per year. Our donors were very appreciative of this special gift. Also, the staff at Dormie Network Foundation are very professional and easy to work with for the nonprofit and the generous donors.”
The collaboration between Dormie Network Foundation and First Tee is more than just about raising funds—it’s about making a lasting impact on young lives. By combining the power of golf with essential life skills, we are building stronger, more confident, and resilient young people. Together, we’re not just teeing up great rounds of golf; we’re teeing up a bright future for generations to come.
Together, we can make a lasting impact—one swing at a time.
Dormie Network Foundation is always excited to explore new partnerships with First Tee chapters to help elevate fundraising efforts. Contact our team today to learn how we can work with your local chapter to create a lasting impact in your community.
