First Green is an innovative STEM education program from GCSAA

Lawrence, Kan. (June 15, 2021) – Washington Golf (WA Golf) has donated $13,000 to the GCSAA Foundation, the philanthropic organization of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), to support First Green, which provides hands-on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education at golf courses.  

Prior to GCSAA assuming leadership of First Green in 2018, the WA Golf had been a long-time supporter of the program, which had its origins in the Pacific Northwest, and this is their third large donation to First Green in recent years. Founded in 1997, First Green is the only STEM education and environmental outreach program that uses golf courses as learning labs. Each field trip averages 75 students who learn about golf and the environment. For most students, these “outdoor classrooms” represent their first exposure to a golf course. 

“First Green has done so much to introduce the game of golf in a fun and educational manner for kids in the Northwest, and we are proud to continue our support as it makes an impact nationwide, WA Golf’s Executive Director Troy Andrew said.

With this donation, WSGA continues its membership in the GCSAA Foundation’s Platinum Tee Club, which recognizes organizations that donate $5,000 or more annually. They also move up to the Governor’s Club level of the EIFG's Cumulative Giving Program for donors who have contributed $50,000 - $99,999 since 1987.

“Through the support of friends like WA Golf, First Green is able to introduce students to golf, the profession and show the important role golf courses play in communities,” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “We thank WA Golf for their generous gift.”

For more information about GCSAA’s First Green, visit www.thefirstgreen.org.