First Tee — Coachella Valley
The Coachella Valley Chapter of First Tee was born through the work of the Desert Recreation District (DRD). Beginning with an introduction and impetus to explore the national program from Bob Spiegel, Palm Desert city councilman, DRD began the application process in 2007 to bring the First Tee program to the valley. Notification came from First Tee home office in the spring of 2007 that a chapter of First Tee had been awarded to DRD with an opening set for the beginning of 2008.
Plans for First Tee - Coachella Valley included a program open to children from all backgrounds and communities within the valley to participate after school and on weekends at First Tee - Coachella Valley, located at The Golf Center at Palm Desert. The golf course and clubhouse facility includes multiple classroom spaces and on-course teaching areas where chipping, putting and driving is taught in addition to the life skills curriculum that is introduced to participants.
"It's a perfect match. Desert Recreation District strives to impact youth through programming that is progressive and designed with measurable outcomes such as skill-building, character development, and improved health. Our First Tee Chapter delivers on that goal every day on the golf course, in the classroom, and in our afterschool programs!" Kevin Kalman - General Manager, Desert Recreation District