Youth Empowerment Partner Profile: How First Tee – The Lowcountry Is Shaping Futures Through Golf
At First Tee – The Lowcountry, golf is more than a game. It’s a gateway to lifelong skills, lasting friendships, and life-changing opportunities. Through character-driven programming, community outreach, and a deep commitment to accessibility, First Tee is helping kids build inner strength and self-confidence that will serve them far beyond the course.
Founded on the belief that experiences are our greatest teachers, First Tee uses golf to teach core values like respect, perseverance, honesty, and responsibility. Every interaction, swing, and challenge becomes a moment to grow. And the results are transformative.
“Golf is such a great teacher,” says Pat Zuk, Executive Director for First Tee – The Lowcountry. “Every shot asks something of you, not just about your swing, but about who you are. You’re constantly asking yourself: Can I pull this off? Do I believe in myself? What if I miss? Can I bounce back?”
That self-reflection is at the heart of First Tee’s approach. Each participant, from age 7 through high school, is guided through developmentally appropriate programming that blends golf fundamentals with life skills. At every level, the curriculum challenges them to pursue goals, grow through adversity, collaborate with others, build positive self-identity, and make wise choices.
But the impact goes deeper than lessons or drills. Cari Schmitt, Development Specialist for First Tee – The Lowcountry, recalls one participant who, while preparing for a major statewide tournament, launched a GoFundMe campaign to support two local charities.
“Even while competing in one of the biggest events of his life, he was thinking of others,” Schmitt says. “That’s the kind of young person we hope every First Tee participant becomes: skilled, self-driven, and grounded in service.”
A cornerstone of the program’s success is the Learning Center on Hilton Head Island, home to the island’s only 6-hole par 3 course and full-size driving range. “It’s more than a place to play — it’s where kids feel seen, valued, and truly at home,” Zuk says. “Here, kids come first and everyone else is a guest.”
Each summer, the Learning Center hosts hundreds of kids from the neighboring Boys & Girls Club and surrounding community, providing them with a safe, welcoming space to grow, learn, and build character. And even when open to the public, the facility remains centered on the needs of its youth participants.
Accessibility is a key part of First Tee’s mission. Scholarships are readily available — no forms, no questions, just opportunity.
“More than half of our participants attend at no cost,” says Schmitt. “We want every child to know they belong here, regardless of background.”
That commitment extends to equipment, too. Kids who need golf clubs are given a junior set to keep for the duration of the program, helping build not just skill, but ownership and pride.
“Our vision is simple,” says Zuk. “To grow with our community, reach more kids, and continue using golf as a powerful tool for building character, confidence, and lifelong success.”
At First Tee – The Lowcountry, they’re not just teaching kids how to swing a club. They’re teaching them how to show up for life. And in doing so, they’re building game changers one drive, one putt, and one moment at a time.
EYSC is currently working with First Tee – The Lowcountry to help expand their life skills lessons and workshop offerings. Click here to learn more about their mission and programs.