First Green is an innovative STEAM education program from GCSAA.

Lawrence, Kan. (May 27, 2025) – The Colorado Golf Association (CGA) has 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). 

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, chief development officer of CGA and executive director of the Colorado Golf Foundation. “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’s mission is to make golf and all it offers available to everyone.  The CGA is a leading resource for more than just golf. It has continued serving its 90,000-plus members through core USGA services but also strives to build 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,” said Rhett Evans, GCSAA CEO. “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.