A grant from United Services Automobile Association (USSA) has been given to the Hawaii State Junior Golf Association (HSJGA) and First Tee-Hawaii to provide more opportunities through golf to families with military affiliations.
"The USAA grant will cover enrollment fees for HSJGA membership, various island association memberships and access to one First Tee – Hawaii session throughout 2021," The Garden Island said in a report.
According to the report, HSJGA and First Tee - Hawaii "both play an important role" in introducing the sport to kids and use it as a tool to empower the youth in building inner strength and life skills.
"Education in diversity, equity and inclusion is also at the heart of the First Tee curriculum and the more coaches, children and volunteers involved in tackling this important topic, the better our communities will be in the future," The Garden Island said in the report.
In addition, Leilehua Golf Course on Oahu will become a new Military First Tee location. The state will also "see an increased offering of community programs and events in underserved areas over the next three years," The Garden Island report said.
Matt Rollins, executive director of HSJGA and First Tee - Hawaii said in the news report that the organization's goal is to reach over 1,500 new kids with the partnership.
"We are so grateful for this commitment from USAA as they continue to support their members and lift up communities in need. In Hawaii, we are committed to opening the door to new opportunities and character building experiences and this partnership helps us continue our mission and tackle the many challenges around access and affordability," Rollins said, as reported by The Garden Island.