<P> The First Tee, a youth development organization, impacts the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life - enhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf . Supported by golf's major organizations, including the LPGA, Masters Tournament, PGA of America, PGA TOUR and USGA, The First Tee has reached more than 9 million young people since its inception in 1997 and reaches youth on golf courses, in schools and at other youth serving locations . </P> <P> The First Tee was established by the World Golf Foundation in November 1997 as a not - for - profit organization 501 (c) (3). The initial focus was on creating affordable access for those not previously exposed to the game of golf . It has since broadened its focus to that of a youth development organization that teaches life skills using golf as a platform . Founding partners include the PGA TOUR, LPGA, PGA of America, USGA and the Masters Tournament . Former President George H.W. Bush served as honorary chairman from 1997 - 2010 at which he moved to an emeritus role . In 2011, his son and former President George W. Bush stepped into the role and became the honorary chairman . </P> <P> The First Tee has three primary channels of delivering its programming: a network of approximately 180 chapters; The First Tee National School Program which introduces golf to elementary - age students through physical education classes; and an after school program delivered by trained leaders at other youth service locations like YMCA and Boys and Girls Clubs . </P> <P> The First Tee curriculum focuses on teaching character education and its "Nine Core Values" (honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy, and judgment). The First Tee chapters use a teaching curriculum developed by experts in the field of positive youth development and delivered by coaches . Through this experience, participants learn to transfer the values of golf to everyday life . </P>

Which is not one of the nine core values of the first tee golf organization