In conjunction with the First Tee of Western New York, Moon Brook Country Club is hosting a six-week summer program designed to introduce young people to golf while providing educational information that builds character and instills life-enhancing values.

First Tee – Western NY touches the lives of 24,000 children on an annual basis in the greater Buffalo and Rochester communities with three flagship opportunites: 1) Programs at local golf courses which run one session per week; 2) School programs at elementary schools during physical education classes; and 3) community programs hosted by youth-serving organizations during after-school time. All programs are led by First Tee-trained coaches and volunteers, and help children learn, grow and build character through golf.

There are nine golf courses in the Buffalo area and four in Rochester that host First Tee programs. However, Moon Brook will be the first private club to be involved. Explaining the motivation behind this effort, Moon Brook President David Bargar said: “Our membership loves the game of golf and feels a strong connection to the local community. We are excited to partner with First Tee – Western NY to help grow the game. More importantly, we recognize that the program will help shape the lives of young people from all walks of life by reinforcing values like integrity, respect and perseverance.”

The program will start on Monday, July 6 and run each Monday through Aug. 10 from 10-11:30 a.m. Children age 10 and up may participate. Each session will include golf instruction and practice on full swing, chipping and putting, as well as a seamlessly integrated life skills curriculum designed to build inner strength, self-confidence and resilience. If needed, youth-appropriate golf clubs will be provided for participants.

For more information or to enroll a child, email First Tee of Western New York Executive Director Tim Karches at TKarches@firstteewesternny.org.