First Tee comes to Central Mississippi Lefleur ’ s Bluff State Parks to host
The First Tee of Central Mississippi is on its way to the Jackson metro area . In 2015 , Life Enhancement and Achievement Program , Inc . (“ LEAP ”), a local nonprofit organization in Jackson , was created to establish The First Tee of Central Mississippi , which will soon offer local youth the opportunity to learn the game of golf . Programs will include The First Tee Life Skills Experience , National School Program , Nine Healthy Habits and Nine Core Values where participants learn to utilize life skills and transfer the positive values of golf to everyday life .
The First Tee is an internationally renowned organization founded in 1997 . Since then , millions of children from ages seven to eighteen have been served with its life skills curriculum as introduced through golf . The First Tee provides a structured program to teach character education , personal and social responsibility , along with golf instruction . The First Tee of Central Mississippi will provide underprivileged youth with programs and activities that keep them on a safe track to garnering academic , athletic , and social success .
“ We are truly excited to host The First Tee , a youth development program that teaches life skills and core values using the game of golf , in Central Mississippi .
This organization will provide educational programs that build character , instill lifeenhancing values and promote healthy choices , which will have a positive impact on local youth for years to come ,” said Precious Malembeka , chairman of LEAP .
In addition , several businesses and private donors have made a financial commitment to The First Tee of Central Mississippi . Executive Director Joshua Friedel said , “ We are extremely honored to have major organizational supporters such as Joe and Kathy Sanderson , Century Club Charities , the Sanderson Farms Championship and Atmos Energy to name a few . However , it is imperative for long term sustainability and growth of the organization , that we ascertain as many supporters who will join us in our journey of reshaping the lives of many youth that our organization will serve .”
Lefleur ’ s Bluff State Park , which includes a nine-hole public golf course and a driving range , will be the chapter ’ s host site . The golf course is conveniently and centrally located in Jackson , MS . Other golf courses that will be involved with the program are Sonny Guy , Grove Park and The Refuge . Additional courses in the tri-county are expected . The First Tee of Central Mississippi anticipates beginning classes in June 2017 .
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