First Tee

First Tee – San Joaquin is a youth development organization that uses golf to teach kids life skills and character. Its weekly golf clinics for kids ages 7 to 17 combine golf instruction with a life skills curriculum covering self-confidence, resilience, respect and sportsmanship. The program focuses on building inner strength that kids can carry into school, friendships and later careers.

The San Joaquin Junior Golf Foundation has offered free golf lessons and equipment to area youth since 2000. Families can register kids for programs through the website, and the organization also runs a girls' golf academy for teen girls. The office is in Stockton, and volunteers and donors help support the clinics.