Respect, honor, etiquette, decision-making and confidence, these principles of golf are a unique metaphor for the principles of life. Open Fairways, a local non-profit organization, improves the lives of at-risk and underprivileged children ages 7 to 17 through the game of golf and the life lessons it teaches.
Today, at-risk and underprivileged children face more potentially negative experiences than ever before, including mental health problems, behavior problems, delinquency, substance abuse and violence. Studies show that quality social relationships and good social skills are key aspects of healthy lives. Adolescents who are socially competent are likely to have good psychological wellbeing, have good academic outcomes, maintain successful marriages in adulthood, and have positive relationships with their own children.
Open Fairways has touched the lives of over 5,000 kids from homes for abused and abandoned youth, local shelters, public housing projects, schools and other facilities for at-risk and underprivileged children. Open Fairways golf clinics concentrate on developing social competencies with an emphasis on enjoyment over ability. After the children complete the four-day golf clinic taught by PGA Teaching Professionals and supported by volunteer mentors the children are asked to sign a "player contract", pledging to stay in school, off drugs, and out of gangs. In return, they are entitled to the free use of equipment and range balls at our designated facilities until the age of 18.
Open Fairways is endorsed by the United States Golf Association; PGA Tour Pros Craig Stadler and Kirk Triplett; and PGA teaching professionals Hank Haney and Mike McGetrick. All Copy Products is a proud supporter of this great program that can make a tremendous impact to ensure a safe and healthy future for children and our community!
Theodore Roosevelt once said "To educate a man in mind and not in morals is to educate a menace to society." Please consider Open Fairways for a yourhub.com grant to continue their social education programs of respect, honor, etiquette, decision-making and confidence through the game of golf.