Greater Wilmington Youth Initiative Inc-First Tee

The First Tee is an international youth development organization introducing the game of golf and its inherent values to youth ages 5-17.  Through our after-school, in-school, and programs at youth serving organizations, the First Tee - Greater Wilmington helps shape the lives of young people from all walks.  The First Tee Life Skills Experience provides the proven elements: safe places, intentional and trained caring adults, and developmentally appropriate and empowering curricula.  At the core of our programs are; First Tee Code of Conduct; Respect for Myself, Respect for Others and Respect for my Surroundings, First Tee Nine Core Values: honesty, integrity, respect, responsibility, courtesy, sportsmanship, confidence, judgment and perseverance, which are essential for young people to make positive choices and overcome challenges across all areas of their lives,  and First Tee Nine Healthy Habits: Play, Energy, Safety, Mind, Family, Vision, Friends, School and Community reinforce the importance of physical, social and emotional wellness. From working directly with local community partners such as the Brigade Boys & Girls Club, Community Boys and Girls Club, GLOW Academy, Martin Luther King Community Center, and the Derek GS Davis Center at Maides Park, we have learned that there is a significant need and a substantial value in the services we offer. Our intent is to expand our reach to similar organizations that could benefit from our programs.

Today’s children are growing up in a challenging time.  Young people do not automatically act with integrity or demonstrate sportsmanship or confidence. The acquisition of values is often a by-product that evolves from individuals’ experiences.  The First Tee Life Skills curriculum is built on evidence-based research and 20+ years of experience.  Our programs provide experiences that teach participants a set of skills to allow them to face challenges at home, school and play in a constructive manner.  

At the First Tee we want all youth in our area to have the opportunity to succeed by equipping them with the necessary life skills.  Young people who develop physical health, character, social and emotional qualities as well as behavioral characteristics are more likely to ultimately become respected and successful adult members of society.  The First Tee programs are based on the belief that positive youth development is built on the foundation of evidence-based research that views young people as opportunities for developing competencies rather than as problems to be managed.  Our programs focus on enabling young people to build constructive relationships and promote development of social skills - including conflict resolution, leadership, and teamwork. The results produce both positive academic and social outcomes. By working closely with our youth, we believe that this will not only change the trajectory of their lives but also positively impact the lives of those around them.