First Green is an innovative STEM education program from GCSAA

Lawrence, Kan. (July 20, 2021) – Wadsworth Golf Charities Foundation has donated $5,000 to the GCSAA Foundation, the philanthropic organization of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), to support First Green, which turns golf courses into classrooms via hands-on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) field trips.

Founded in the Pacific Northwest in 1997 prior to GCSAA assuming leadership in 2018, First Green is the only STEM education and environmental outreach program that uses golf courses as living laboratories. Each field trip averages 75 students who learn about golf and the environment. For many students, these “outdoor classrooms” represent their first exposure to a golf course. 

“We are really impressed with the program and cannot wait to hear about the continued impact it has on students,” Wadsworth Golf Charities Foundation Director Doug Myslinksi said.

With this donation, Wadsworth Golf Charities Foundation joins GCSAA Foundation’s Platinum Tee Club, which recognizes organizations that donate $5,000 or more annually.

“Thanks to the ongoing support of friends like Wadsworth Golf Charities Foundation, the GCSAA can continue to introduce students to the game of golf, the profession and show the essential role golf courses play in communities through the First Green program,” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “We thank the Wadsworth Foundation for their generosity.”