Mary Von Achen - The First Tee

Posted by Richard L. Roberts

Sandy Nichols introduced Mary Von Achen as the Development Director of The First Tee Central Coast. Mary is a life long resident of the area and worked in the Title Industry.

Mary said that First Tee, a non profit organization started in New York in 1997, immediately expanded to several states and is now a nation wide program. FirstTeeCentralCoast is designed to take kids, 5-18, off the streets, and provide them with affordable access to the game of golf.

The program instills life enhancing values such as honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, and the importance of education; and, creates a platform where children can increase their potential for success. The cost is $100 per child, but they will accept children at no cost for whatever reason. The program costs the non profit organization $300 per child which covers the discounted green fees, golf clubs and balls; and, the cost for a golf pro who teaches and mentors/coaches that work directly with the children. There are ten golf courses in San Luis ObispoCounty that participate in the program. Mary said they need donations, grant support and volunteers for coaches. Contact Mary at 709-6817 or www.thefirstteecentralcoast.org.