This time of year, we all tend to look back at the year we’re about to wish farewell and count our blessings. We also tend to spend this month getting our ducks in a row for the New Year, setting out our plans and establishing the goals that will drive us forward. And First Tee – The Lowcountry is no different.
As First Tee – The Lowcountry reflects on a year defined by growth, gratitude, and meaningful progress, the organization is reminded of a central truth: When a community invests in its young people, transformation follows. The achievements of 2025 showed how much can be accomplished through generosity, partnership, and a shared belief in the power of character-driven youth development.
This year, more than 14,000 young people across Beaufort and Jasper counties participated in First Tee’s life skills and character education programs. The chapter welcomed more than 8,100 visitors to its Gumtree Road facility. It served more than 600 youth in its Life Skills Experience classes and students from 24 schools in the First Tee School Program, a remarkable expansion that also included the opening of a new administrative office in Bluffton.
Additional growth in LPGA/USGA Girls Golf, the Junior Golf Partnership, and in-school curriculum programs highlighted how golf continues to serve as an accessible pathway to confidence, resilience, and personal growth. The chapter also awarded a total of two post-secondary scholarships, totaling three overall, as students take their next steps beyond high school.
As the chapter concludes its Finish Strong, Build Game Changers campaign, First Tee – The Lowcountry celebrates the donors, partners, volunteers, and families whose support made these milestones possible. Strengthened relationships with the Hilton Head Island Rec Center and the Boys & Girls Club contributed to greater program access, and more than 300 Life Skills Program Scholarships ensured that financial barriers never prevented a child from participating.
These accomplishments belong to the entire Lowcountry.
First Tee 2025 Board of Directors
“This support means everything,” said Pat Zuk, executive director of First Tee – The Lowcountry. “We can’t do this without support from the community and we’re so very grateful that we have so many great friendswho are willing to help us help the kids.”
Looking ahead to 2026, the organization is preparing for its most ambitious year yet. An existing golf facility in the Greater Beaufort area is undergoing renovations supported by First Tee – The Lowcountry, creating improved spaces for our programs and for the community. The project reflects the chapter’s commitment to expanding access, adapting to regional growth, and ensuring that local families have welcoming environments where young people can learn, play, and thrive. With ongoing generosity from donors, sponsors, partners, supporters, families, and friends, First Tee – The Lowcountry is focused on several key priorities: expanding to five new school partnerships, funding more than 300 additional Life Skills Program Scholarships, strengthening Girls Golf and Junior Leadership pathways, and fully completing and activating the upgraded Beaufort-area facility.
These goals are driven by the stories and successes of the young people who participate in First Tee’s programs. “First Tee helped me find my voice,” said Jeep Patrick, a scholarship recipient and collegiate golfer. “It taught me to stay focused, lead with courage, and believe in the next shot, even when the last one didn’t go in.” Testimonials like Jeep’s reflect the heart of First Tee’s mission: To give every child who steps onto the tee box the confidence to step forward in life.
As 2025 comes to a close, First Tee – The Lowcountry invites supporters – past, present, and future – to help shape what comes next. Whether through monthly giving, sponsorship, mentoring, volunteering, or simply sharing the organization’s message, every contribution strengthens the foundation on which young people build their futures. The chapter remains motivated by the impact already made and inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead.
To make your year-end contribution or learn more, visit firstteelowcountry.org.
