Minnesota, United States: The Toro Company has extended its long-time commitment to First Tee, a non-profit that helps young people develop character and life skills through golf.

Supporting the non-profit youth development organisation since 1998, the extension will include grants and equipment donations to support chapter initiatives and diversity efforts across the First Tee network.

“The Toro Company is proud to celebrate 25 years of supporting First Tee,” said Edric Funk, Group Vice President of Golf, Grounds and Irrigation businesses at Toro, an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation. 

Funk added: “Being a part of the on-going growth of First Tee aligns with our values as we have seen thousands of young people empowered through the game of golf. Golf provides the framework through which First Tee teaches life skills like self-confidence, honesty and resilience, qualities we know will continue to serve First Tee participants throughout their lives on and off the golf course.”

Toro’s ‘Growing the Game Through Impact and Inclusion’ grants have helped First Tee chapters across the United States reduce barriers and expand access, providing places where kids from all backgrounds feel safe and welcome.

In 2022, a dozen First Tee chapters benefited from those grants, while 20 chapters received Toro equipment donations valued at US$1,000 each.

Toro also sponsored the 2022 Barbara A. Douglas and Dr William J. Powell Diversity Award, which was presented to two chapters that have made great strides in the areas of diversity, equity and inclusion: First Tee – Delaware and First Tee – greater Charleston. Each chapter received a US$5,000 donation from Toro.

“We are proud to continue our relationship with one of our longest partners, The Toro Company, which will continue to support the diversity initiatives that are central to First Tee’s mission,” First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin said.

“Toro has been by our side for 25 years, and our organisations share the goal of making golf and our character-building programmes more accessible to anyone who wants to play. We are grateful for their on-going support.”

Toro has donated more than US$1 million to First Tee over the last 25 years and remains committed to supporting the non-profit through 2025.

Founded in 1997, First Tee enables kids to build inner strength, confidence and resilience – qualities that will serve them on the golf course and in life. Its character education programmes are offered at golf courses, schools and youth centres in all 50 States and at six international locations.