Behind the Scenes: How First Tee – Greater Topeka Inspires Kids On and Off the Course

Welcome back to our August Tenant Spotlight series! Over the past two weeks, we’ve introduced you to First Tee – Greater Topeka—a proud tenant at the CRC CARE Center @ Lundgren—and explored their core mission of character development and youth mentorship.

This week, we are pulling back the curtain to look at what their day-to-day work actually looks like across our community. From multi-week programs to local school gymnasiums, First Tee is meeting kids right where they are.

More Than Just Seasonal Sessions

When most people think of youth sports, they picture weekend games or seasonal clinics. First Tee – Greater Topeka certainly offers fantastic multi-week programs at local golf facilities, where kids ages 7 to 18 learn the fundamentals of the game.

However, every session is intentionally designed to blend golf instruction with life skills. As participants learn how to putt, chip, and drive, they are simultaneously learning how to manage emotions, resolve conflicts, set goals, and appreciate honesty and sportsmanship. The golf course becomes a living classroom where character is built shot by shot.

Bringing the Mission into Local Schools

You don't even necessarily need a golf course to experience First Tee! One of the most impactful ways they reach local youth is through direct partnerships with physical education teachers right here in Topeka schools.

By providing specialized equipment, age-appropriate curricula, and teacher training, First Tee equips schools to introduce thousands of students to the game and its core values during regular PE class. This ensures that kids who might not otherwise have access to golf—or traditional youth sports leagues—get an equal opportunity to build confidence, try something new, and connect with positive role models.

Mentors Who Leave a Lasting Impression

At the heart of every program, session, and school partnership are the people. First Tee relies heavily on caring coaches and mentors who show up for local kids week after week.

As the First Tee team often notes, the average participant will likely forget their golf scores as they grow up, but they will never forget the adults who believed in them. That is the true magic of their work: creating a safe, encouraging space where children feel valued, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.

Stay Connected

Be sure to check back next week as we wrap up our August spotlight with ways you can support First Tee—including their upcoming annual fundraising golf tournament! In the meantime, visit the official First Tee – Greater Topeka website to learn more, and follow our CRC Facebook page for updates and fun facts all week long.