First Tee – Tulsa, a youth development organization that helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf, is celebrating 25 years of impact in Tulsa this month, and the organization will have a very special event this Saturday, June 13 beginning at 12:00 p.m. at Mohawk Park Golf Course.

This is a special milestone for an important non-profit organization in our community.

I can say that because both of my kids participated in the First Tee program when they were young, and it not only taught them the game of golf but important life skills, as well. My son completed all the levels of First Tee and has continued to play golf as an adult. My daughter enjoyed the program but wasn’t as interested in golf and didn’t continue to play.

They both, however, remember some of the life skills they were taught while participating in First Tee. There were games that were played that actually taught a specific life skill or had a message in the process.

The celebration will begin with a tribute to the local founders of First Tee – Tulsa, the late John B. Johnson, Jr., Board Chair Nick Sidorakis, and Southern Hills Country Club. The festivities will last until 3:00 p.m.

“We will have local food trucks, games for the kids, inflatables and contests,” said executive director Janice Gibson.

“Since launching in Tulsa in 2001, First Tee – Tulsa’s programs have positively impacted more than 166,000 kids and teens, providing them with experiences that help build their inner strength, self-confidence and resilience, and prepare them for the future,” Gibson said. “Using the game of golf as the platform, participants learn critical life skills to help them grow socially, emotionally and academically.”

Gibson will be a guest on “Tulsa Beacon Weekend” in a few weeks to further discuss the program and how young people and adults can get involved.

First Tee – Tulsa is one of 150 chapters across the First Tee network. These character education programs are offered at golf courses, schools and youth centers in all 50 states and six international locations. The Tulsa chapter is the only chapter in the network which provides all golf programming and educational opportunities totally free of cost, thanks to its donors.

The mission of First Tee is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf at in-school and after-school programs. You can learn more at www.firstteetulsa.org or call 918-591-4168.

TULSA BEACON RADIO

Tune in to “Tulsa Beacon Weekend” radio show every week, featuring interviews with local and national guests, talking about everything from politics to family issues. This week, my guests will be local political pundits Chris Medlock and Michael Bates to discuss the upcoming primaries. The show airs on Saturday at 12:00 p.m. CST on 970am KCFO.