The Colorado Golf Association granted $5,000 to support the First Green program of the GCSAA Foundation, the philanthropic organization of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America.
GCSAA’s First Green program is the only environmental outreach program that uses the golf course as a living laboratory. It focuses on building a hands-on experience for K-12 students to learn more about wildlife habitat, soil science, environmental sustainability, mathematics, water conservation, water quality, career exploration and more. Founded in 1997, First Green pairs golf courses with local schools for unique science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) learning opportunities.
"The Colorado Golf Association is proud to support First Green’s efforts to turn golf courses into outdoor classrooms,” said Ryan Smith, CGA chief development officer and Colorado Golf Foundation executive director. “This grant reflects the CGA’s commitment to supporting innovative programs that benefit youth through the game of golf. First Green’s ability to utilize STEAM education and environmental stewardship to create hands-on, real-world learning experiences like these are second-to-none. We’re excited about this partnership with the GCSAA Foundation and continuing to expand these opportunities for youth across Colorado.”
Established in 1915, the CGA counts more than 90,000 members through core USGA services as well as unique junior golf and caddie programs at CommonGround Golf Course, which serves as a learning laboratory for its programs. It focuses on building and connecting the Colorado golf community through these programs and grantmaking to promote an innovative atmosphere.
“GCSAA truly appreciates the support from the Colorado Golf Association and the Colorado Golf Foundation,” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “With this grant, the First Green program can reach even more K-12 students with a hands-on STEAM experience.”
For the second year in a row, the GCSAA Foundation has received a grant from the Colorado Golf Association. The $5,000 grant will support growth of First Green in the state of Colorado. This maintains the organization's membership in the Platinum Tee Club and will now add them to the Statesman’s Club of organizations that have contributed between $10,000 and $24,999 since 1987.
First Green field trips and student attendees has increased steadily since the GCSAA took over the program ahead of the 2018 golf season. From 2021 to 2024, total trips have climbed from 27 to 109, and students visiting courses has gone from just under 1,500 to nearly 7,000.
