2024 First Tee West Michigan Annual Report

2024

Annual Report

Who We Are We enable kids to build the strength of character that empowers them through a lifetime of new challenges. By seamlessly integrating the game of golf with life skills curriculum, we create learning experiences that build inner strength, self-confidence, and resilience that kids can carry to everything they do.

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Our Five Key Commitments

One of Five Key Commitments is the foundation of each week’s lesson plan at First Tee. I am not afraid to fail.

Pursuing Goals

I am excited to grow and learn.

I am learning from both my achievements and setbacks.

I am developing resilience.

I am discovering my inner strength.

I can dig deep when things get tough.

Collaborating with Others

I respect others perspectives, especially when they are different from mine.

I show kindness, consideration, and care for others.

I know that my attitude and how I treat others have an impact.

I feel safe to be myself.

I am finding my self-confidence.

I am discovering what I’m capable of.

Using Good Judgment

Growing through Challenge

Building Positive Self-Identity

I respect rules in golf and in life.

I am honest with myself and with others.

I have the courage to do what’s right, even when it’s hard.

I can change the game and change the world by simply being the best version of myself.

I am a Game Changer.

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A Decade of Impact—Thanks to You While a teacher or coach may impact a student’s life for a year or two, your support of First Tee helps provide consistent, life-shaping mentorship that can last up to ten years.

From the excitement of an 8-year-old (see Sailor’s story, page 7) to the confidence of a graduating senior (see Fern’s story, page 17), First Tee mentors walk alongside students for up to 10 years, shaping their character and future.

This journey isn’t possible without a village— strategic program partnerships (see page 11), dedicated volunteers (pages 15 & 19), incredible golf course partners (page 14), and generous donors like you (page 18). Because of you, 2024 was a record year: First Tee served more than 2,400 students, with a record-breaking 1,388 receiving the program completely free of charge due to their family income.

Just 10% of our revenue comes from program fees. ..

The other 90%? That’s you. Your generosity gives kids a decade-long home at First Tee—a home that changes lives.

Thank you for being part of their journey. Because of you, First Tee isn’t just a program—it’s a second home, a launchpad, and a lifelong support system.

Will you help change even more lives with us in 2025?

Sincerely, Tyler Smies Chief Executive Officer

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Total Participants Total

2022 829

227

428

2023 988

310

2024 1028

352 564

366

Grand Rapids

1,836

Holland

Total

2,222

360

559

Total

2,401

448

Kalamazoo

Muskegon

58% of our students in West Michigan were on scholarship in 2024 & received free programming (a 12% increase from 2023)

Scholarship Student Percentage *Any family receiving MI income assistance recieves First Tee classes for free

45%

42%

50%

36%

33%

43%

42%

53%

74%

50%

64%

67%

2022

2023

2024

2022

2023

2024

2022

2023

2024

2022

2023

2024

Grand Rapids

Holland

Kalamazoo

Muskegon

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Sailor’s Story

On Par for Greatness

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Sailor’s introduction to First Tee came as a toddler, watching with admiration as her older sister, Cami, participated in the program on scholarship. Sailor eagerly awaited the day when she could join too. Now, Sailor, an eight year old participant in Muskegon, isn’t just following in her sister’s footsteps—she’s carving her own path with energy, laughter, and a love for competition.

Playing in the PGA Junior League has been another defining experience. Starting at six years old, she enjoys competing with older kids. “I get to see how they hit the ball and follow in their footsteps. They’re basically being a role model,” she says. Learning from older players has reinforced the importance of mentorship, a value she admires in her sister, coaches, and peers.

“Cami was a role model of a golfer,” Sailor shares. “That makes me want to be a role model for different people so then I can be a big helper when I grow up for golf.” Now a junior coach, Cami has guided Sailor in classes, passing down the same encouragement she once received. But Sailor’s community extends far beyond her sister—it includes coaches, volunteers, and older players who continue to inspire her.

One coach, in particular, has made a lasting impact. “My favorite coach is Coach Amir because he is so kind and sweet. One time, we were playing a game where I was hitting all the candies, and he said, ‘Let her cook!’” she recalls with a laugh. “I miss Coach Amir so much.”

Whether gripping a golf club, sprinting down a track, or playing football, Sailor approaches every activity with infectious enthusiasm. Through First Tee, she’s not just learning how to play, she’s learning how to lead.

Her mother, Jill, has watched both of her daughters grow through First Tee and appreciates how it has shaped their character. “For our family, the most valuable aspect of First Tee extends far beyond the golf course,” she says. “It’s the genuine care and investment they show in each student and their families.”

She describes golf as “fun, positivity, and impossible,” capturing both its challenges and rewards. But her approach is simple: “To have fun.” Whether sinking a putt or missing a shot, Sailor plays with resilience. “I like to just go with the flow and be happy even if I don’t make shots. I try to bring the best positivity I can.” Beyond golf, Sailor is involved in basketball, track, soccer, skating, and football, with football as her favorite.

Sailor is still at the beginning of her journey, but is destined for greatness and inspired by the role models who continue to encourage her. No matter what sport Sailor is competing in, First Tee is giving her the skills to be a great teammate, a supportive friend, and a role model in everything she does. And, most importantly, she’s having fun every step of the way.

Through First Tee, Sailor is gaining valuable life skills. “I’ve learned responsibility and integrity,” she says. “At school, integrity means listening to the teacher and doing the right thing when nobody is watching. At home, I try to keep my room neat and help my mom.” On the golf course, she knows that honesty is key: “If I wrote down a 7 but actually got an 8, I should tell the truth.”

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Tyler Smies

Chief Executive Officer

Matthew Gifford Kalamazoo Area Director

Gim Lee

Taylour Boer

Erik Sanford

Jeff Keyser

Director of Operations

Muskegon Area Director

Program Director

Holland Area Director

Full-Time Staff & Brandon Jean

Kalamazoo Programming Coordinator

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Kenna Durian

Marketing & Communications Coordinator

McKenna Inglis

Muskegon Programming Coordinator

Chris Hashley

IT & Fundraising Coordinator

Sarah Owens

Holland Programming Coordinator

Emily Damstra

Program Communications Coordinator

Travis Mikulenas / Chair Maureen Fitzgerald Penn / Vice Chair Nate Golomb / Secretary Scott VanderLinde / Treasurer Matthew Forkin / Kalamazoo Randy Freeburg / Grand Rapids Antoinetta Freeman / Grand Rapids

Board of Directors Russ Hines / Grand Rapids Ian Hughes, PGA / Grand Rapids John Kruis / Grand Rapids Randy Lindquist / Muskegon Jason Manshum / Grand Rapids Ross Ryzenga / Holland Henry Stallings / Grand Rapids 9

2024 Revenue $1,313,910

40% Golf Marathon Fundraiser 22% Corporate & Foundation Gifts 22% Individual Gifts 9% Program Fees 6% Golf Outings 1% Restricted Scholarship Fund

2024 Expenses

$1,159,346

55% Camps, Clinics, Training & Coach Wages 24% Management, Operations & Insurance 17% Fundraising 4% Supplies & Technology

2025 Budget $1,399,950

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$689,800 Grand Rapids

$226,100 Kalamazoo

$258,750 Muskegon

$225,300 Holland

Power in Partnerships

Class at Red Arrow GC in Kalamazoo

“I never knew I could golf, so I'm glad they came to teach us," said a sixth-grade student from Hillside Middle School in Kalamazoo. Through its partnership classes, First Tee – West Michigan brings the game of golf directly to students who might not otherwise access it, opening doors and equipping young people with the life skills and values they need to succeed, both on and off the course.

In 2024, First Tee expanded its reach by partnering with 31 schools and organizations across the region. The largest of these partnerships was with Communities In Schools (CIS) of Kalamazoo, where First Tee served 265 students across 10 schools during the 2024–25 school year, more than doubling the number of students reached from the previous year. All participants received free, scholarship-funded programming.

“Many of our students have heard of golf before and can recognize it being played, but they’ve never had access to learning or playing the game,” shared Jenee McDaniel, Area Director for Communities In Schools. “We thank First Tee for the enrichment you have provided our students. We truly appreciate your partnership!”

A highlight of each session was a field trip to Red Arrow Golf Course, often the students' first visit to a real course.

The experience sparked excitement and curiosity. As one eighth-grader shared, “They said we could get money by being a caddy in high school, I might do that.”

These partnerships open students’ eyes to new opportunities and future possibilities. CIS and First Tee look forward to continuing and expanding this work in the years ahead.

Across West Michigan, First Tee’s partnerships break down barriers and provide access to golf for hundreds of students who might not otherwise have the opportunity.

By engaging youth in character-building activities and working alongside schools and community organizations, First Tee ensures all students, no matter their background, can benefit from the lifelong lessons of golf.

CIS, a nonprofit working out of Kalamazoo Public Schools, surrounds students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.

Through this partnership, First Tee introduces students to golf in a fun, hands-on way. Classes took place at the schools in gyms or outdoor spaces and featured engaging golf games, life skills lessons, and friendly contests—with pizza party prizes to keep students motivated.

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Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids Partnerships

Courses

1 . 24/7 Golf 4255 Alpine Ave NW Comstock Park, MI 49321

6. Golf 616 400 Dodge NE Comstock Park, MI 49321

11. Maple Hill GC 5555 Ivanrest SW Grandville, MI 49418

2. Boulder Creek GC 5750 Brewer Ave NE Belmont, MI 49306

7. Indian Trails GC 2776 Kalamazoo Ave SE Grand Rapids, MI 49507

12. Mines GC 330 Covell Ave SW Grand Rapids, MI 49534

3. Broadmoor CC 7725 Kraft Ave SE Caledonia, MI 49316

8. Kaufman GC 4807 Clyde Park Ave SW Wyoming, MI 59509

13. Quail Ridge Golf Club 8375 36th St SE Ada, MI 49301

4. Cascade Hills CC 3725 Cascade Rd SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546

9. Kent CC 1600 College Ave NE Grand Rapids, MI 49505

14. Scott Lake GC 911 Hayes Rd NE Comstock Park, MI 49321

5. Cedar Chase GC 7551 17 Mile Rd NE Cedar Springs, MI 49319

10. Leaderboard Indoor Golf 5366 Plainfield Ave NE Grand Rapids, MI 49525

15. The Pines GC 5050 Byron Center Ave SW Wyoming, MI 49519

Holland

Holland

Partnerships

Courses

16. Clearbrook GC 6494 Clearbrook Dr Saugatuck, MI 49453

19. Third Coast Links 6069 Blue Star Hwy Saugatuck, MI 49453

17. Macatawa GC 4600 Macatawa Legends Blvd Holland, MI 49424

20. Three Fires GC 6045 136th Ave Holland, MI 49424

18. Ravines GC 3520 Palmer Dr Saugatuck, MI 49453

21. Winding Creek GC 4514 E Ottogan St Holland, MI 49423

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holland Escape Ministries Faith Church Holland Public Schools I AM Academy Latin Americans United for Progress People Helping People Pullman West Ottawa Public Schools

Muskegon

Muskegon Partnerships

Courses

22. Benona Shores GC 3410 Scenic Dr Shelby, MI 49455

27. Oak Ridge GC 513 W Pontaluna Rd Norton Shores, MI 49444

32. Under Par Golf 4949 Harvey St Norton Shores, MI 49444

23. Colonial GC 2763 N 72nd Ave Hart, MI 49420

28. Oceana GC 3333 W Weaver Rd Shelby, MI 49455

24. Lincoln GC 4907 Whitehall Rd Muskegon, MI 49445

29. Old Channel Trail GC 8325 N Old Channel Trail Montague, MI 49437

33. Muskegon Community College GC 2100 Marquette Ave Muskegon, MI 49442

25. Muskegon CC 2801 Lakeshore Dr Muskegon, MI 49441

30. Stonegate GC 4100 Sweeter Rd Twin Lake, MI 49457

26. Northwood Family Traditions 2888 S Comstock Ave Fremont, MI 49412

31. Summer Breeze GC 5885 S Warner Ave Fremont, MI 49412

34. Village Green GC 8130 Bingham Ave Newaygo, MI 49337

Boys & Girls Club of the Muskegon Lakeshore Club 188 Hesperia Public Schools Montague Public Schools Reeths Puffer Public Schools Shelby Elementary Whitehall Public Schools

35. Waters Edge GC 1100 Ramshorn Dr Fremont, MI 49412 36. White Lake GC 6777 S Shore Dr Whitehall, MI 49461

Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo

Partnerships

Courses

37. Eastern Hills GC 6075 E G Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49004

40. Red Arrow GC 1041 King Hwy Kalamazoo, MI 49048

38. Kalamazoo CC 1609 Whites Rd Kalamazoo, MI 49008

41. The Dome Sports Center 12733 US-131 Schoolcraft, MI 49087

39. Milham Park GC 4200 Lovers Ln 12 Kalamazoo, MI 49001

Baxter Community Center Coit Elementary Grand Rapids Parks & Rec GRPS Middle Schools Mulick Park Elementary Palmer Elementary Pine Island Elementary Resurgence - Bridge Street Ministries The Other Way Ministries West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kalamazoo Communities in Schools Kalamazoo Parks & Rec Loy Norrix Special Ed Peace House

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22

1 26

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35 34

30

29 36

31

33 25

27 32 1

41 Courses & 17 31 Partnerships

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12 8 11 15

14

5 2

6

10

9 4 7

13 3

in 2024

21 1-5 First Tee sessions hosted at course in 2024

16

18

19

6+ First Tee sessions hosted at course in 2024

40 37 38 39 41 13

The Heart of the Course Golf courses across West Michigan play a vital role in First Tee’s success.

In 2024, First Tee West Michigan held programming at 41 different courses.

Golf courses’ willingness to host supports First Tee’s mission, while they also balance the demands of a flourishing golf economy. One course with unwavering support and a commitment to First Tee is Three Fires Golf Club in Holland.

Since 2019 at:

Three Fires, a family-run course on the north side of town, is a place where golf is inviting, affordable, and fun. It’s also where First Tee participants, many picking up a club for the first time, find a welcoming space to learn and grow. At the heart of it all is Kyle Curtiss.

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First impressions matter. Walk into the Three Fires clubhouse, and you’ll likely find Kyle—6'3" with a warm smile and a handshake like a bear paw.

But rather than making you feel small, Kyle and his team make sure every visitor, especially each First Tee kid, feels at home.

Kyle, the former President and CEO of Festida Foods, purchased the course in 2022, hoping to continue the legacy of Ray Sruba and his seven sons, who owned and operated the course for 46 years, formerly known as West Ottawa Golf Club. “Many of us involved with Three Fires played this course growing up,” Kyle shares. “Our passion was to keep it a golf course and to improve it.”

That passion extends to creating opportunities for young golfers. Three Fires is home to First Tee’s partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holland, providing kids with an encouraging space to take their first swings.

“We are committed to providing space for young golfers to fall in love with the game,” Kyle says. “More than anything, we just appreciate seeing kids have fun!”

six-week First Tee class sessions held at the course

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annual golf marathon fundraisers, raising more than

$200,000

100 more than

But the impact goes beyond golf. At Three Fires, kids don’t just learn how to hit a ball, they witness generosity in action and feel the support of a community that believes in them. Kyle believes in the power of working together: “Our partnership with First Tee is a blessing to us, and, more importantly, hopefully a blessing to the kids involved with the program.”

To every golf course that welcomes First Tee participants, thank you.

Your generosity isn’t just making our programs possible, it’s shaping young lives. Because of partners like Three Fires, kids aren’t just becoming better golfers; they’re becoming better people.

nine-hole rounds played by our students on scholarship

“We invested in Three Fires to provide a place for the public golfer to enjoy a round of golf at a place that cares about their experience.”

-Kyle Curtiss, Owner

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“The most rewarding part for me as a First Tee mentor is seeing kids set and achieve their personal goals.”

Cruz Beckstrom, Muskegon Junior Coach

“Mentoring young players is incredibly rewarding. I remember being in their shoes, and now I get to support and inspire them the way my coaches did for me. Seeing their growth and excitement makes it all worthwhile.”

“It excites me, the opportunity to give back in the game of golf, which is my favorite sport. I’ve been playing since I was elementary age. To be able to give back is just such a special experience.”

Fern Babinski, Grand Rapids Junior Coach

Jason Stariha, Muskegon Mentor

First Tee West Michigan had

300

volunteer and coach mentors in 2024

“I enjoy helping youngsters to discover golf, but much more than this, I enjoy seeing them acquire new skills and grow as individuals.”

Ian Purvis, Grand Rapids Mentor

“My heart skips a beat when a 9 year old struggling to make contact with the ball then all of a sudden sends one sailing. When that kids turns around with a big smile on their face, my day has been made.”

Mentors Matter Thank you to all of our mentors!

We couldn’t do it without you!

“I love seeing repeat students year after year and session after session, who I form really fun relationships with.”

Chelsea Morrison, Holland Mentor

“I am committed to making each session special for each of the participants.”

Steve Trebing, Kalamazoo Mentor

Steve Burkhardt, Holland Mentor

“I mentor because it allows me to have a direct, honest, and lasting impact on the lives of young golfers.”

Henry Stallings, Grand Rapids Mentor

“Being able to help our students make lifelong connections, get active, and spark their love for a new sport is an opportunity that I could not be more thankful for.”

Liam Szegda, Muskegon Mentor

“We enjoy bringing the life skills to the kids so that they can see how that’s tied in at home, at school, and on the golf course.”

Paul & Kathy Keyser, Holland Mentors

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Swinging for Success

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Fern’s journey with First Tee began at the age of eight through an introduction at the West Michigan Golf Show.

From that moment on, Fern embraced every opportunity First Tee had to offer, growing both as a golfer and an individual. Years of dedication and hard work have shaped a successful competitive career, valuable relationships, and life lessons that will last forever.

Giving back is a core part of Fern’s First Tee experience.

Serving as a junior coach has allowed Fern to mentor younger golfers, reinforcing the lessons that once inspired personal growth. “My goal is to help create an environment where young players feel welcomed, supported, and motivated to chase their goals, just like First Tee did for me.”

Fern shares. As the top fundraiser for the youth golf marathon, Fern is committed to ensuring First Tee continues providing life-changing opportunities for future generations, regardless of income.

Early on, First Tee introduced Fern to the fundamentals of the game. Playing in the PGA Junior League provided Fern the first taste of competitive golf, introducing strategic decision-making, course management skills, and mental resilience. "The team-based format helped me develop a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship as I learned how to support my teammates while also handling the pressure of competition," Fern recalls.

As graduation approaches and a new chapter begins, the lessons and relationships developed through First Tee will continue to shape the path forward. "I want to inspire others not just to play golf but to embrace the core values it teaches: honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy, and judgment, both on and off the course."

A significant milestone came in 2024 when Fern became the fourth participant from First Tee - West Michigan to compete in the prestigious Pure Insurance Championship " Playing Pebble Beach truly felt like a at Pebble Beach. reward for my hard work and increased my awareness of how my time management skills and perseverance will undoubtedly serve me well in the future as I continue striving for excellence in all areas of my life."

From an eager eight-year-old to a competitive athlete, First Tee has not only fueled Fern’s growth as a golfer but also provided a foundation for meaningful relationships that have shaped her journey. The lessons learned through the program have equipped Fern to excel both competitively and personally, with a deep commitment to giving back.

Fern’s impact and inspiration on the next generation of golfers will echo at First Tee for years to come.

Beyond competition, the relationships formed with peers and coaches have kept Fern returning to First Tee year after year. Former Program Director Coach Taylor (Haudek) Stockbridge was a key mentor, encouraging Fern to join junior leagues and setting the foundation for a future in competitive golf. “Her influence has made a positive impact on my personal growth, which has created opportunities for me in all parts of my life,” Fern says.

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"The biggest lesson I have learned from First Tee is perseverance.

Golf, like life, is full of challenges, and success comes from staying patient, learning from mistakes, and continuing to improve."

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Golf Marathon Our Biggest Fundraiser

$588,043 raised in 2024

$77,595 Holland

$78,368

Kalamazoo

Number of Marathoners Adult Marathoners

$299,635

Youth Marathoners

Grand Rapids

28

$132,444

30

Muskegon, Oceana, & Newaygo

17

Each dollar raised allows for our students on scholarship to receive our programming for free.

How many holes can you play in a day?!

Total Raised

$51-$100

$77,868

944 donors

$94,205

488 donors

$251-$500

$94,482

217 donors

$501-$1,000

$68,879

$1,001-$2,500

$52,940

122

2021

2022

135

157

2023 2024

804 donors

$101-$250

$2,501+

18

$35,190

105

Thank you to our donors & marathoners for your support!

Number of Gifts by Size $1-$50 gift

26

77 donors

29 donors

$134,000

2,582 Unique Donors

11 donors

Want to join the biggest golf marathon in the country?

There’s still time in 2025!

Grand Rapids Lead Coaches Brock Andrus /Jr. Coach Tony Andrus Sierra Berlin /Alumni Lyla Chrisman /Jr. Coach Adam Davis Levi Davis Chris Drumm Tyler Dunham Cara Franke John Gregg Greg Heath Bradley Lardie / Alumni

Deb Marshall Jack Miller David Noe Kim Pasikowski Grace Piotrowski /Alumni Ian Purvis Lindsay Reens /Alumni Henry Stallings Art Thornley Taylor Van Solkema Thomas Voskuil Cullen Wiersma /Jr. Coach

Thank You, Coaches!

Holland Lead Coaches

Muskegon Lead Coaches

Kenna Durian Cara Franke Kathy Keyser Paul Keyser Eddie Kline Tyler Mathy

Sarah Owens

Cruz Beckstrom /Jr. Coach

Bryan Koratich

Rob Thompson

Alena Christensen

Brianne Lentz

Corbin VandenBrink

Terri Clock

Laura Sly

Gillian VandenBrink

Lindsay Haase

Jason Stariha

Karen Van Hietsma

Greg Heath

Liam Szegda

Randy White, PGA

Paul Hoersten

Derek Thornberry, PGA

Tim Hurja, PGA

Kalamazoo Lead Coaches Chris Brouwer Jeff Davis Nate Johnson Tommy Malkowski

Halle Tanner Steve Trebing Abe Young

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118 Commerce Ave SW #400 Grand Rapids, MI 49503

thank you! learn more!

www.firstteewestmichigan.org 616-208-1177 info@firstteewestmichigan.org

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