Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1530620
84 maconmagazine.com | December 2024/January 2025 Live Well 2024 What is the mission of your business? First Tee Middle Georgia is a youth development organization that enables kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with a life skills curriculum, we create active learning experiences that build values like inner strength, self-confidence and resilience that kids can carry to everything they do. How does your business improve lives? Sports can be a valuable tool for improving children's mental health by creating opportunities to learn life skills and build character. We believe that our program offers the children of Macon and Middle Georgia the skills to build confidence and strength to help them with whatever life throws at them. We believe that we provide a safe place for these children to be themselves. What is a myth that you wish people would get over? And, what is the antidote? That golf is only for the wealthy! Golf is a sport that can be played by anyone, no matter what age, race, or financial status. With the support of our donors and partners, we can open more doors for these children to experience this great game and the life lessons that are taught through it. E L L I O T T R U U S E X E C U T I V E D I R E C TO R AT F I R ST T E E M I D D L E G E O R G I A P.O. BOX 26912, MACON, GA 31221 | 404.606.3169 info@firstte emiddle ge orgia.org | firstte emiddle ge orgia.org You might be surprised to know: There are so many opportunities to grow through our program. We are so much more than an afterschool sports program. First Tee offers several scholarship opportunities for its participants. Going beyond our core programs, the enhanced First Tee College Scholarship Program is designed to provide further support, life skill development and mentorship of our alumni through their journey. Higher education continues to be a critical factor in unlocking opportunities for young people to thrive, and First Tee is committed to their success. Elliott Ruus (left) and lead coach Jack Dean (right) with students from Next Level Community Development Center at Bowden Golf Course